NEBRASKA CITY – A move to temporarily suspend the Nebraska City Chaplaincy program for police and emergency responders failed at Monday’s city council meeting.

Robert Earll, chairman of the chaplaincy board, said it has been difficult for the chaplaincy program to operate as intended because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Earll said while he has seen the positive benefits of the program both personally and professionally,  the number of active chaplains has dropped to three since the start of the pandemic. He said it is difficult to have chaplains available 24 hours a day with only three.

Street Commissioner Vic Johns opposed suspending the program, saying the trauma for both victims and responders continues.

Johns, who operates the rehabilitation service Mission Field in Nebraska City, said he is willing to help get the chaplaincy program fully active.

Police Chief Dave Lacy said officers typically know the people involved in traumatic situations well enough to call a pastor or priest when it’s appropriate.

Finance Commissioner Gloria Glover and Public Safety Commissioner Bryan Bequette voted in favor of suspension, while Johns and Parks Commissioner Patrick Wehling voted against. With the 2-2 tie, the program will continue.