Levy income improves morale
By TIM YOVICH
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
HOWLAND -- Police Chief Paul Monroe says his department wasn't a "complete disaster" five years ago, but it was poorly trained and equipped with low morale.
Today, thanks partially to a 2.5-mill levy approved by voters in 2005 that generates about $460,000 annually, the department has made a turnaround, Monroe told township trustees Wednesday.
The department now has a $1.7 million annual budget and isn't being supported by the township's general fund.
Monroe explained that the department was operating five years ago on an operating levy from 1988 and older permanent levies.
This created a lack of stability and morale in the department, the chief said, noting that radios were 15 to 20 years old, computers and cameras were outdated, and police headquarters needed some rehabilitation.
Working short-staffed, Monroe said, resulted in officers' calling off sick, creating added stress on those who filled in on overtime.
Over the five-year period, the chief explained, 10 officers have been hired, bringing the department to full strength with 20 officers.
New policies have been instituted because of changes in laws, new technology such as cell phones and styles in policing.
Monroe said training has been increased so that new officers learn the correct way to perform their duties, new computers have been purchased and handguns replaced.
Morale is at "an all-time high," the chief said, noting one reason is because a department hiring committee has recommending the hiring of the best available officers.
In-service training using his officers has been increased, reducing costs by not having to pay for outside instructors.
During the meeting, police Detective Nicholas Roberts was named the department's Officer of the Year, the first time the award has been made in 20 years.
yovich@vindy.com