Seattle Police Budget Up $68M, But Only $12M for New Hires, Guild President Says

Seattle's police budget is increasing by approximately $68 million, but only about $12 million of that increase is directed toward new hires, according to figures raised during an interview with Seattle Police Guild President Kent Loux. Loux explains that much of the additional spending covers existing contractual obligations, including negotiated labor costs involving the Seattle Police Guild, police management and civilian employees. While the overall Seattle Police Department budget is growing, Loux argues that increased spending does not necessarily translate into additional officers on the streets. The Seattle Police Guild president also calls for a higher police staffing target, saying the city's goal of approximately 1,250 officers should increase to 1,400. His comments raise questions about Seattle's public safety priorities, police staffing, city spending and whether the proposed police budget adequately addresses hiring needs. Subscribe to The Center Square for more coverage of Seattle police, Mayor Katie Wilson, Seattle's city budget, public safety, government spending and taxpayer accountability. #SeattlePolice #KentLoux #SeattleBudget #PublicSafety #PoliceStaffing #Seattle #TaxpayerAccountability