For immediate release: May 13, 2025
In light of recent discussions regarding the costs associated with law enforcement contracts, the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office aims to provide clarity and context to the communities of Cascade and Belt.
Rising Operational Costs
Increased contract costs reflect growing expenses required to maintain modern, effective law enforcement. Key drivers include:
• Vehicle Expenses: The costs of patrol vehicles have nearly doubled from $41,000 in 2014 to $75,683 in 2025.
• Liability Insurance: Deputy liability insurance premiums have surged from $20,000 to $380,000.
• Inflation & Supply Chain Issues: Inflation and supply chain disruptions have driven up the costs of equipment, technology, and essential supplies necessary for daily operations.
• Wages: The average hourly wage of a 1st Class Deputy Sheriff, not including benefits, has increased from $25.96 in 2017 to $39.90 in 2024.
Expanded Services
The Cascade County Sheriff’s Office provides more than just baseline coverage. A Community Resource Deputy is equivalent to a resident deputy, who works in both the school and the Cascade community. This deputy maintains a daily law enforcement presence in the community, often working more than the 20 hours a week stated in the contract.
Legal Obligations and Cost-Effective Solutions
Montana law requires municipalities to provide law enforcement services, either by establishing their own police departments or through contracts with existing law enforcement agencies. Recent legislation, such as House Bill 333, offers a framework for municipalities with populations under 5,000 to enter interlocal agreements for law enforcement services, ensuring compliance with state requirements while managing costs effectively.
Considerations for Independent Municipal Police Departments
Establishing an independent municipal police department entails significant financial and logistical commitments, including:
• Infrastructure: Investment in a records management system, radio communications infrastructure, and other technological necessities.
• Personnel: Hiring and training staff to provide 24/7 coverage, including officers, administrative personnel, and support staff.
• Judicial Requirements: Provision of a city attorney, city judge, and associated court staff to handle legal proceedings.
These requirements represent substantial expenditures that often exceed the costs associated with contracting existing services.
“It is truly alarming the way costs have inflated in the past six years; we all feel the pinch. We also provide double the service to the communities of Belt and Cascade, based on a previously established 20-hour-a-week model. Essentially, even though costs are on the rise, we are providing more service for the cost,” said Sheriff Jesse Slaughter.
