While a recommendation for funding the safety officer programme was approved to go to next year's annual plan hearing, it is unlikely to avoid the axe unless it attracts external funding.
Dunedin introduced central city safety officers in November 2003, and the service was expanded to include North Dunedin in 2005 to prevent crime and antisocial behaviour at peak times.
The programme was confirmed in 2007, after a grant of $65,000 a year for five years was forthcoming from the Government Crime Prevention Unit.
Officers have been working in the city as eyes and ears for both the police and the council from September to April or May, in shifts from Friday night to Sunday morning.
A report to yesterday's finance, strategy and development committee from council customer advocate Adrian Blair argued for retaining the programme.
He said it was increasingly important the city maintained safety initiatives, which were "key attributes for visitors and residents alike".
He recommended expanding the programme to year-round coverage, and provided statistics showing violence, behavioural and property offences, and liquor ban offences, all decreasing.
But, he said, funding support from the Ministry of Justice would not be available for the 2012-13 year and beyond.
"Consequently, if the current city safety programme is to continue at the same level, then funding of $65,000 from rates revenue will be necessary."
He recommended an extension of the programme, at a cost of $100,000.
But Cr John Bezett said providing that money would be "supplementing" the job of the police.
Mayor Dave Cull said there were cheaper ways of reducing crime, such as liquor bans and earlier closing times for bars.
The recommendation was approved by a majority vote.
