The search for budget cuts has prompted Councilman Steve Schmitt to consider the use of cross-trained public safety officers. Schmitt broached the idea Saturday as Waterloo City Council members kicked off an all-day budget work session by reviewing the police and fire rescue budgets. He said he was disappointed city department heads tasked with preparing impact statements on reducing property taxes responded with staff-reduction scenarios. “How about a little bit more creative and out-of-the-box thinking,” said Schmitt, who said Waterloo should consider the model in Cedar Falls where public safety officers — police officers trained to assist on fire calls — are replacing firefighters.