Police Chief Discusses Impact of Specialized Units on Patrol Call Reduction

The San Antonio City Council held a special session on August 19, 2025, focusing on various operational aspects of the city's police department. The meeting primarily addressed the differing workloads and standards among various police units, including investigative, canine, and traffic units.

During the discussions, council members explored the implications of staffing levels on call response and overall efficiency. A key point raised was the potential impact of specialized units, such as the Community Outreach and Response Engagement (CORE) team and the Specialized Assistance for Families in Emergencies (SAFE) unit, on reducing the number of calls that patrol officers handle.

One council member inquired about the possibility of increasing personnel in these specialized units to help meet the department's goal of a 60-40 ratio of patrol to specialized officers. However, the police chief expressed uncertainty regarding the exact effect that adding more officers to these units would have on call reduction.

The session highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the police department in managing resources effectively while addressing community needs. The discussions underscored the importance of evaluating unit performance and staffing strategies to enhance public safety in San Antonio.

As the meeting concluded, no specific resolutions were made, but the dialogue set the stage for future considerations regarding police staffing and operational efficiency. Further analysis and planning will be necessary to determine the best course of action moving forward.