The Toledo Police Department could end 2026 with fewer officers as rising costs limit hiring in the proposed city budget.
Department leaders told Toledo City Council that increasing expenses—particularly personnel costs—are outpacing revenue growth. The plan calls for a police academy class of 25 recruits in 2026, down from 45 last year, while an estimated 35 to 40 officers are expected to retire over the course of the year.
To manage the financial pressure, the department is reviewing staffing assignments and cutting some technology, including removing ShotSpotter from the budget. Officials plan to rely on overtime, mutual aid, and outside resources such as the Ohio State Highway Patrol to maintain service levels. The department is also exploring outside funding to continue its Drone as First Responder program.
The proposed 2026 police budget totals about $120.6 million, with most funding coming from the city’s general fund. City council is expected to vote on the final budget by the end of March.
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