New Prague Police Department secures funds for cameras and Swat team expansion

The New Prague City Council convened on December 2, 2024, to discuss various updates and initiatives across city departments, marking a significant moment as the police department announced it is fully staffed for the first time in several years. This achievement was highlighted by the police chief, who also reported securing over $75,000 in federal grants, including funding for new camera installations in city parks, set to be implemented in 2025.

The police department's community engagement efforts were noted, with successful events such as a Halloween open house and a significant increase in social media followers, rising from approximately 1,000 to nearly 4,000. The department also welcomed a new member to the Tri City SWAT team, enhancing its operational capabilities.

Looking ahead, the fire department plans to increase hourly wages for fire calls and training, aiming to improve compensation while remaining competitive within the county. They received grants for radio replacements and turnout gear, ensuring continued operational readiness.

The public works department reported the removal of over 200 ash trees due to the invasive ash borer, with nearly all city-owned ash trees now removed. The department also celebrated the opening of a new dog park, which has received positive feedback from residents. Significant improvements were made at Memorial Park Baseball Field, funded by previous state tournament revenues, including new fencing and relocated batting cages.

Additionally, the parks department received a grant to enhance the disc golf course at Southside Park, adding new holes and improving existing facilities. The collaborative efforts among city departments were emphasized, particularly in managing resources effectively to achieve community goals.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to public safety, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements, with plans for continued enhancements in the coming year. The council expressed gratitude for the support received from various stakeholders and looked forward to further developments in 2025.