Plainview Hires Police Officer

Plainview’s City Council on Feb. 10 approved the hire of Odessa Ward as a part-time police officer.

Police Chief Jason Timm said his department continues to experience challenges covering shifts when staff take approved time off.

To address the ongoing issue of maintaining adequate staff levels, he proposed the addition of a part-time police officer position.

The Plainview News reports Ward, who currently works part-time for the Wabasha County Sheriff’s Office, was seeking additional part-time employment.

Timm said she is already fully trained, possesses the required equipment, and has experience working in this area.

He said the current starting part-time wage is $30.67 per hour, with no health benefits associated with the position.

Timm said adding a part-time officer at this rate will help alleviate staffing shortages, improve schedule flexibility, and reduce reliance on overtime while maintaining public safety services.