SURREY, N.D. (KMOT) — The Surrey community is down three police officers following a tense city council meeting Monday.
Surrey council members approved the resignation letters of three officers Monday.
The special meeting was filled with community members wanting to know the reason why.
The officers themselves also spoke out.
Officer Paul Cooper said it was due to being disrespected by city staff.
“If I wanted to make more money, I’d have been in Minot four years ago. It has nothing to do with the money, but the disrespect that I was shown at those budget meetings is why I’m resigning, a 100%,” said Paul Cooper.
City auditor Anita Trana said pressure from a tight budget may have been a cause as well.
She said these struggles have led them to cut an officer position, come January.
“It’s been the hardest year in 13 years that I have been City Auditor. We’re searching for money. Some people say I just need to find the money,” said Anita Trana.
Police Chief Kevin Howe said he will be staying with the department until October 2nd.
In the meantime, city staff plan to advertise for a maximum of two officer positions.
They will receive assistance from the Ward County Sheriff’s Office on 9-1-1 calls through this time as well.
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