A meeting with the Police Department

Friends,

Last week, a meeting was held with our Police Officers.  Here are a few things that were discussed; a few things you may not know:

1,  The Salado Police section of I-35 is from Holland Road to the bridge of 2484.  Tickets are not written on I-35 due to construction and safety.  There are not many places in which to stop cars.   

2.  If a wreck occurs on I-35 and it is in the Salado Police Section, a Salado Police Officer works the accident.  If a call from a citizen is received, the Officer cannot leave the scene of the accident.  The Sheriff Department has to be notified to assist but if they are not in Salado, it takes time to get them here.  A State Trooper does not have to assist with either.  Some will help, others will say “not my territory.”

3.  In 6 years, Salado Police Officers have received two raises.

4.  A Police Officer may have a second job after their normal working hours.  (i.e. security at a business, manager, etc)

5.  If Salado Police Property is involved, the city must give permission for its use.  For instance working for PSC Construction.  The Officer must pay $10 an hour for the use of a Salado Police Car.  No more than 2-days-a-week should be worked.  If a call is received from a Village citizen, the Police Officer must leave his place of duty and answer the call.  Loyalty to the Village is always first.  Workshop Thursday will discuss Police Officers working for PSC Construction.

6.  Teamwork with surrounding Police and Sheriff Departments is essential.  If there is a drunk driver on I-35, it may take the Sheriff, State High Partrol, and the Salado Police Department working together to apprehend the suspect.  If there was a robbery, a shooter, a murder, etc., other Police Departments will be called to help if necessary.  The same is true with PSC construction.  If Temple or Belton do not have enough cars to help, our Police Officers may be asked.  Yes, they will receive $40 an hour of which $10 an hour will go to Salado Village.

7.   During the summer, the Aldermen/Lady have requested an assessment of the Salado Police Department.  Alderman David Williams and Alderlady Amber Dankart will manage the Assessment.  Retired Police Officers and citizens with experience will assist also.  The Assessment will award praise for things done correctly and recommendations for things that need improving or changing.  They will also review the number of Policeman needed now and in the future. 

It was decided that the Mayor the Police Officers will meet quarterly to discuss issues of the Village and the Police Department.

Very Respectfully, Skip