POLICE DEPARTMENT NEGOTIATIONS END AS CITY SEEKS A BETTER FIT FOR leadballoon RP

By WFAFO 13 News | leadballoon | RP — Nov. 27, 2025

LOS SANTOS, SA — Just days before the grand opening of leadballoon RP City, officials confirmed that negotiations with an incoming police department have officially ended after the two sides were unable to reach an agreement on pay, responsibilities, and structural expectations.

According to City Hall, the department — which had previously expressed interest in joining the city at launch — requested substantial wage changes and operational control that did not align with leadballoon’s design, economy, or long-term vision.

A city spokesperson told WFAFO:

“We had productive conversations, but ultimately both sides wanted different things. leadballoon operates on fairness, balance, and a sustainable economy. The numbers simply didn’t match what the department required.”

Sources familiar with the negotiations say the department was also in discussions with at least one other city, further complicating the timeline and expectations.

City Officials Emphasize Stability Over Speed

Despite the setback, officials stressed that the city’s commitment to a fully staffed, professional law-enforcement presence has not changed.

The issue, they said, was never about filling positions quickly — it was about finding a department that fits the identity and culture of leadballoon RP.

“We’re not going to rush this just to say we did it,” the spokesperson added.“leadballoon deserves a department that understands the community, the economy, and the kind of RP we stand for.”

Officials emphasized that the city’s systems, emergency response network, and dispatch infrastructure are already prepared to support whichever department ultimately joins.

What Happens Next

City leadership confirmed that recruitment efforts are already back underway. Multiple groups, including experienced LEO teams and independent command structures, have reached out expressing interest since the announcement.

WFAFO has learned that the city is prioritizing:

• Experienced leadership

• Departments with RP-focused patrol culture

• Groups that fit the no-pay-to-win economic model

• Teams willing to integrate into the city’s existing systems

• Long-term commitment, not temporary involvement

Officials say the city is prepared to interview and evaluate new candidates immediately.

Community Reaction Mixed but Hopeful

Reaction across Sandy Shores, Paleto Bay, and Los Santos has ranged from disappointment to optimism.

Some residents expressed concern about opening weekend coverage, while others believe the city is making the right call by waiting for a department that truly fits the leadballoon environment.

Local resident and frequent WFAFO source Tater Biscuit offered his own view:

“Hell, if they’re tryin’ to charge more than the damn mayor makes, let ’em walk. We need cops who wanna be here — not cops lookin’ for the highest bidder.”

The Mission Remains Clear

City Hall reiterated that the launch on December 22nd will proceed as scheduled.The search for a compatible police force continues, and officials say they expect to find a department that matches the city’s values, pace, and community-driven style.

WFAFO 13 will continue to provide updates as the city moves forward with its selection process.