Tomball City Council discusses city staffing shortages, public safety needs

At its July 23 budget workshop meeting, Tomball City Council discussed public works, police and fire department staffing levels, upcoming infrastructure needs and planning for a future City Hall complex.

The details

The Tomball Police Department is currently short three officers, while the public works department is down five full-time employees, according to staff. Council members emphasized the importance of maintaining competitive pay and benefits to attract and retain city staff.

City Manager David Esquivel said about 90% of the reason staff leave the city of Tomball is due to pay; however, the benefits provided help keep the city a competitive employer.

Esquivel also said the city's benefits package, including health insurance and training opportunities, remains a key recruitment tool.

Before you go

Council also discussed plans for a new City Hall, estimated at $70 million, with a design phase targeted for 2027 and construction around 2029, officials said. The city plans to study similar facilities before launching design work, which is expected to cost 6%-8% of the total project.