As we approach the upcoming Public Safety Override, I want to begin sharing information with the community to help answer some of the most common questions.

The number one question we are hearing is: Why do we need to add more police officers and firefighters?

The short answer is simple; call volume has increased significantly over the years, while staffing levels have not kept pace.

The attached slides, which were previously presented to the Town, clearly show the steady rise in calls for service for both the Police and Fire Departments.

Public safety demand continues to grow, and it’s important that our staffing reflects that reality so we can continue to provide the level of service our community expects and deserves.

Myself and Fire Chief Tim Bailey will be meeting with our seniors at the Senior Center in May and look forward to continuing the conversation in other forums in the near future. 

We hope to see you there.

Chief Padden