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Columbus proposal would audit overtime costs as public-safety staffing gaps persist
Columbus City Council is considering a measure directing the city auditor to examine police and fire overtime spending ahead of the 2027 budget. Both divisions are nearly $8 million over their overtime budgets, while their unions report hundreds of unfilled positions.
Columbus City Council is set to discuss legislation Monday, Oct. 19, that would require the city auditor to review overtime spending in the police and fire divisions before work begins on the 2027 budget.
The city’s finance director says each division is nearly $8 million over its overtime budget for the year. The proposed review would compare budgeted overtime with actual spending, giving council members information to use in next year’s budget decisions. Council is seeking emergency action so the measure can take effect before the budget process begins.
The spending debate comes as both departments face reported staffing shortages. The Fraternal Order of Police says Columbus is short about 200 officers; the firefighters’ union reports a shortage of 120 firefighters. Union leaders have warned that reducing overtime without addressing vacancies could threaten public safety.
“We work for the citizens of Columbus. They are driving the demand for these services, and they rightfully expect trained professionals to not only show up, but show up quickly and in a timely manner,” said Steve Stein, president of Columbus Firefighters Union Local 67.
Mayor Andrew Ginther said the city expanded hiring when funding allowed, adding three police recruit classes and two fire recruit classes annually. He said the city wants to return to that pace but faces tighter finances.
The legislation would require a review, not itself set overtime limits or resolve the staffing gaps. Council planned to discuss the measure at 5 p.m. Monday.