Pasco weighs police, fire cuts as residents demand budget alternatives

Pasco weighs police, fire cuts as residents demand budget alternatives

(The Center Square) - Severe proposed budget cuts threatening local public safety staffing have ignited mounting outrage among Pasco community members, who are demanding city leaders explore alternative spending solutions before slashing essential emergency services.

Ex-Pasco police chief warns proposed cuts could cripple department

PASCO — Former Pasco Police Chief Ken Roske has strongly criticized proposed city budget cuts that could eliminate up to 22 police department positions, warning they would jeopardize public safety and undo decades of progress. In a letter to the mayor and city council regarding 2027–2028 budget discussions, Roske urged leaders to reject the cuts. Combined with previously frozen roles, the department could lose up to 27 positions. Roske highlight…