Enterprise Oregon council debates future of police department

Police Chief Kevin McQuead announced his resignation, reducing Enterprise's police force to two officers. The department handled 575 calls from January through July, ranging from traffic stops (171) to welfare checks (27). Over the past decade, personnel costs for the police have risen 97%, while other city services also saw large budget increases.

The Enterprise City Council held a workshop on July 29, following earlier public input on July 13, to consider the department's future. Residents largely favored keeping the force, while council members explored a possible contract with the Wallowa County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Ryan Moody, who has only four deputies, warned that his office could not absorb additional duties and highlighted that the Oregon State Police have cut nighttime service in the county. McQuead suggested using the Oregon Association of Chiefs Linebacker program to provide temporary leadership. The council reviewed budget data and call logs but took no immediate action, scheduling the next meeting for August 10.