Sufficient Funding of Small Police Departments
Files
Date
2018
Authors
Davila, Jr., Richard J
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas (LEMIT)
Abstract
Description
This paper explores the necessity for small governments to provide adequate funding for their police departments. Improper funding can result in inadequate and insufficient supplies and equipment, inability for officers to complete mandated training, lack of incentives and salary to attract and retain a good pool of applicants, and the inception of low morale and unconstructive work environments. It is incumbent upon small governments to provide adequate funding to enable the hiring and retention of highly qualified applicants.
If severe funding problems prevents agencies from sending officers to state mandated training, both officers and departments face penalties. Moreover, if officers cannot become certified with specialized skills, officers may feel they are prevented from maximizing their skills to their full potential. This lack of opportunity can result in low morale and officers might seek employment with larger agencies that can cultivate these untapped skills. There are a few things small agencies can do to attract and retain officers even with limited funding. City and county governments must anticipate police department requirements. With good planning, frivolous expenditures can be reduced. Grants can be utilized to provide funding for equipment, training, and other police needs. Smaller governments are also capable of providing community interaction whereby officers become connected to the communities they serve. With effective planning, these initiatives can be achieved so officers will prefer to remain with their departments.
Keywords
Grants-in-aid--Texas, Employee retention