Harris County OKs security pact with CFISD

The Harris County Commissioners Court unanimously approved on April 19 a new law enforcement agreement between Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District and the Precinct 4 Constable's Office.

The new contract was formed in response to a decision made by the Precinct 4 Constable's Office — the law enforcement arm of the district for more than 20 years - to eliminate its officer contract with the school district in April.

To provide safety and security for students and staff members, CFISD agreed to a new contract that requires the district to assume 100 percent of contracted officers' salaries.

The district previously paid 80 percent of officer salaries while the county paid 20 percent.

To stay within the annual budget, the district will adjust the total number of peace officers to 24, in addition to one sergeant.

The contract is effective through Dec. 31 and provides a short-term solution that addresses law enforcement and security for 83 campuses and multiple district facilities.

Superintendent David Anthony said, "The district will continue to investigate a long-term law enforcement solution, which may include employing and commissioning peace officers. However, it is refreshing in a budget-reduction climate that the commissioners were willing to step up to provide law enforcement services through December."