SPIRIT LAKE — A police officer shortage has led the city of Spirit Lake to have talks with the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office about providing law-enforcement services.

"The purpose of these conversations is not to disband the police department, but to ensure the city of Spirit Lake's public safety needs are met," wrote Mayor Cowperthwaite in a letter posted on the city's website.

He said if, for example, the city's remaining officers were to resign, Spirit Lake would need the KCSO to step in.

"These conversations are intended to be proactive and not reactive and have been about possible short-term assistance not a long-term agreement," Cowperthwaite wrote.

Dennis Sanchez, who had been the city's chief of police for more than five years, resigned earlier this year.

Spirit Lake's police force currently comprises Lt. Morgan John, as interim chief, and two officers. John and Sgt. Brian Balleweg are recent hires.

The school resource officer was switched to patrol due to the shortage.

Spirit Lake police, with a budget of around $800,000, would have eight sworn officers if fully staffed.

KCSO Sheriff Bob Norris said he has had discussions with Spirit Lake about providing law-enforcement services.

He said the KCSO has deputies that cover the north end of the county.

"The sheriff's office will respond to any criminal events in progress in the city," Norris said.

He said his office is not under contract with Spirit Lake, but stands ready to provide "any level of service they would like."

Spirit Lake has a population of about 2,500. In 2021, police received more than 9,000 calls. In 2020, it was just north of 7,000. There were about 3,000 traffic-related offenses for those two years, 45 assaults/batteries, 80 DUIs, 104 domestic disputes and 26 sexual assaults/offenses.

Cowperthwaite wrote his letter in response to concerns and comments on Facebook about the city's police force.

He said the city has advertised for months and offered bonuses to fill police officer positions and has not had much success.

According to the SLPD website, it is accepting applications for lateral police officers and is offering pay ranging from $24.40 to $28.09 an hour, with benefits and a retirement package.

The police department is also offering a volunteer program for anyone in the community with an interest in law enforcement to become involved with the police department.

"Volunteers in Police Service" are eligible to assist officers and staff "in a variety of areas to enhance the capabilities of our department and also to strengthen ties with the community."

Cowperthwaite wrote that he plans to hold a town hall meeting to address the situation, but is waiting until he has a plan to share.

"We understand your concerns and we are doing all that we can to ensure our city's public safety," he wrote.