Police chief discusses reserve funding

PRICHARD, Ala. (WALA) - Prichard Police Chief Jimmie Gardner said the $200,000 the city council approved Thursday for police salaries and overtime will only be used to get the his department through the rest of the fiscal year.

"I think that's the confusion that some some want to make. It will cover the remaining of this fiscal year, and then for the new fiscal year which starts October 1 there will be a new budget," said Gardner.

Prichard's fiscal year ends September 31.

Gardner said next year's budget will likely include salaries for the six new officers. Until then, the officers will be paid from the $200,000 reserve fund.

"We have operations going in as early as today because of that so we can continue to fight crime in this community," said Gardner.

Gardner initially had to defend his request for the money.  Gardner said council members approved a contract that allowed for the six officers to be hired. However, it eventually was voted down.

"But the process had already taken place in the hiring of the six individuals," said Gardner.

Martin-Harris said the salary information was in the wrong place.

"It's supposed to be in the budget. It was not in the budget. So because it wasn't in the budget, it was never approved. Those are considered unauthorized expenditures," said Martin-Harris.

Thursday city council gave a  final approval for the money to used towards police salaries and overtime.