Mass Resignation: Goodhue, Minnesota Police Department Quits En Masse Due to Salary Dispute

The entire police department in Goodhue, Minnesota has resigned, citing low pay as the reason. Police Chief Josh Smith and six other employees resigned, leaving the town without local law enforcement. The council plans to seek assistance from the Goodhue County Sheriff's Office in the interim. Despite a recent pay increase, officers in Goodhue were still paid lower than comparable communities, leading to recruitment and retention challenges. The council aims to rebuild the police force rather than permanently contracting with the sheriff's office. This resignation highlights the ongoing struggle of small Minnesota towns to meet public safety demands amid budget constraints and officer shortages.