Some changes coming to Salt Lake City police budget

The Salt Lake City Council may make some changes to the police department budget but is unlikely to make the steep cuts demanded by some activists. 

Council member Darin Maro said during a virtual meeting last night that any measures under consideration are the start of what could be a long conversation over policing.

The council discussed steps they could take regarding demands to defund police and use that money for other community services. 

Some steps being considered include a hiring freeze, funding more de-escalation training and blocking the department from accepting federal funding to buy military-grade equipment. 

The council plans to vote on the budget next Tuesday.

City Council Chair Chris Wharton says it is up to council members to follow through when it comes to examining policing in Salt Lake City.