Buffalo Overtime Spending Rose to $40 Million

A city comptroller report shows annual overtime costs have consistently increased despite changes in staffing levels.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Employment

Isometric editorial illustration of a brass time clock and a steel gear on a brick wall, symbolizing municipal spending. — A new Buffalo city comptroller report indicates that municipal overtime costs reached $40 million annually, rising despite changes in total staffing levels. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you trust your local government to effectively manage public spending on employee overtime?

A new comptroller report revealed that Buffalo spends an average of $40 million on overtime annually. Data analyzed between fiscal years 2022 and 2026 shows that costs continue to climb regardless of fluctuations in the number of city employees.

Why it matters

The findings have prompted members of the City Council to demand further audits of departmental payrolls. Officials are concerned as overtime expenses outpace staffing adjustments, placing continued pressure on the municipal budget.

A city comptroller payroll analysis shows that 40 employees earned over $100,000 in overtime pay during the last fiscal year, compared to just 12 employees in 2022. Additionally, police personnel accounted for 38% of the total overtime expenditure.

The players

Buffalo City Council

This local legislative body is responsible for oversight of city finances and has called for further audits into departmental spending.

The details

Nearly 25% of the city workforce earned at least $20,000 in overtime pay last year, which is significant when compared to the median household income of $52,000 in Buffalo. The report underscores a trend where overtime hours worked increase annually regardless of whether total staffing levels rise or fall.

Payroll data was analyzed from fiscal year 2022 through fiscal year 2026.
The fiscal year 2026 reporting period concluded on June 30, 2026.
The City Council Finance Committee met on October 6, 2026, to discuss the report.

Macro View

This story follows a pattern set by the historical rise in municipal overtime costs during periods of staffing instability. The findings reflect a broader economic struggle in which public sector budget management is challenged by fixed cost growth.

Rising city overtime costs directly impact local taxpayers by straining the municipal budget and limiting funds for other public services. Residents may see increased scrutiny from the City Council as leaders look for ways to manage the city's bottom line.

The takeaway

The report highlights a disconnect between staffing levels and overtime spending that requires systemic review. Residents should monitor future city council budget hearings to see how officials plan to address these rising labor expenditures.