Police Department Staffing and Retention
Summary
CPD reported that crime is down significantly this year and is expanding its camera network to 43 locations. The department is actively hiring, with 38 personnel vacancies remaining.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 6
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 16, 2026.
Impact analysis
Staff shortages and overtime costs continue to impact the police department budget.
Residents benefit from enhanced crime deterrence and lower crime rates.
Overworked police officers face strain from ongoing vacancies and shifting patrol demands.
Mentions & discussions (7)
Public Safety Committee - Sep 16, 2026
Police leadership reported crime is dropping across Clarksville while the department handles 42 officer vacancies. New academy graduates are stepping up to help fill those gaps.
Public Safety Committee - Aug 19, 2026
The Clarksville Police Department is managing roughly 42 to 45 vacancies while dealing with a recent spike in juvenile crime involving automatic firearms. Chief McGovern noted that competitive regional salaries continue to drive resignations, though technology like license plate readers helps officers keep property crime low.
Tennessee Bureau of Investigation steps in after man bitten by Clarksville police K-9 dies in jail. Here’s what we know
Tennessee Bureau of Investigation steps in after man bitten by Clarksville police K-9 dies in jail. Here’s what we know WSMV
Public Safety Committee - Jun 17, 2026
CPD reported that crime is down significantly this year and is expanding its camera network to 43 locations. The department is actively hiring, with 38 personnel vacancies remaining.
City Council - Mar 26, 2026
Chief Ty Burdine presented data showing severe officer shortages and high turnover, urging the city to raise starting salaries to $57,712 and implement equity adjustments.
Finance Committee - Mar 23, 2026
Chief Burdine presented a plan to raise starting police pay to $57,712 to combat severe staffing shortages and officer departures. The change will cost $810,000 for the current fiscal year and will be funded through existing department salary savings.
Public Safety Committee - Feb 18, 2026
Both police and fire departments are managing significant operational vacancies and long training timelines for new personnel.
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