In law enforcement, budget constraints are a significant challenge faced by agencies striving to maintain high standards of safety and effectiveness. The desire for state-of-the-art equipment and resources is often hampered by tight financial limitations.
In this context, Police1’s “Leadership Beat” column asked current police chiefs: if budgetary restrictions were not a concern and approval for funding was guaranteed, what significant purchase would they choose to make for their department?
Here’s what they said:
- A new police headquarters to replace ours which is nearing 75 years in age. — Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama
- A comprehensive wellness plan, including technology to track individuals’ activity and progress as well as funding for additional training facilities, physical fitness time and various health programs. — New Mexico State Police Chief W. Troy Weisler
- Additional staffing, because it would allow for more safety services for the community and flexibility for our officers to take additional time to enjoy their lives outside of work. — Wright State University Public Safety Chief Kurt Holden
- Officer wellness opportunities and training equipment. — University Circle Police Department Chief Tom Wetzel
- A new police station to help with recruitment and retention. — Evanston Police Department Schenita Stewart
- It would absolutely be staffing: appropriate staffing is the nexus to officer health, happiness, safety, clear thinking, good decision-making and professional public service. — City of North St. Paul Chief Phil Baebenroth
- I would purchase healthy daily meals for my department members because healthy eating encourages healthy lifestyles. — Oceanside Police Chief Kedrick Sadler
- Patrol vehicle replacement. — Greensboro Police Department Chief George Paugh
- Realizing healthy employees are key to providing high-level professional service, I would fund a wellness and training center for our staff, which would include classrooms, individual relaxation/recovery (restorative rest areas), a private area for mental health check-ins, a chef to prepare healthy meals and a study/training area. — Fremont Police Chief Sean Washington
- If I had one budget request, it would be for a new headquarters. — Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei
If money was no object, what one item would you like your agency to purchase? Email editor@police1.com.