Dear Senator/Representative,
The overall turnover rate for our broader Public Safety occupational group (Dispatch) stands at 84%. This lack of continuity introduces dangerous delays:
- Losing a Dispatcher means losing the ability to coordinate Troopers and emergency services efficiently across vast areas. Each vacancy weakens the entire chain of emergency command.
- The Cost of Turnover: The minimum cost to train each new dispatcher is $50,568 over an average of 20 weeks. That’s salary only and does not account for training materials, employee benefits, etc.
- Over the past 5 years (2021 – 2025), The WHP has had to replace 44 of our 44 Dispatch professionals. This is an attrition rate of 100% and has cost the taxpayers of Wyoming over $1,224,000.00.
- Investing in the future: The total investment required to align all Wyoming Highway Patrol Dispatchers’ compensation with the 2024 Market Pay Policy (MPP) is $285,165.67. (WYDOT) (Salary Adjustment Report) (Pg. 15) To provide fiscal context, this expenditure is less than the cost of repaving a 1/2 mile stretch of two-lane highway.
- Recruitment is failing because competitive pay is absent, compounded by the number of applicants who are immediately disqualified. This instability prevents the WHP from running at full capacity, jeopardizing the safety of citizens and officers alike.
- Dispatchers, despite their dedication, are frequently required to work overtime shifts to maintain full coverage for emergency services. This resulting operational strain is a significant factor contributing to turnover within this crucial staff. Consequently, these dedicated individuals often seek better working conditions and more competitive compensation elsewhere.
We have a timely opportunity to provide the support necessary for the Governor’s budget proposal. Investing in this proposal will stabilize these essential positions and ensure the long-term reliability of our statewide emergency coordination network.
| Sincerely, Matt Arnell President Wyoming Highway Patrol Association |
