In a significant move to enhance public safety collaboration, the La Porte City Council approved two key memorandums of understanding (MOUs) during the Board of Public Works & Safety meeting on September 15, 2025.

The first MOU solidifies the partnership between Health Link and the city, ensuring continued funding for the position of social worker Caitlin Benson at the La Porte Police Department. This initiative aims to bolster mental health support within the community, reflecting the city's commitment to comprehensive public safety.

The second MOU, with Franciscan Health in Michigan City, marks a pivotal change in the relationship between the two entities. Under this agreement, Franciscan Health will compensate the city $75 per hour for firearms training provided by La Porte's police department. This training is crucial as Franciscan operates its own armed security force with police powers. For the past two years, La Porte's firearms instructors have been qualifying Franciscan's personnel, and this new agreement ensures that the city will receive payment for these services moving forward.

Chief Ferguson expressed gratitude towards the public safety teams, highlighting their ongoing dedication to community safety. These agreements not only strengthen inter-agency cooperation but also ensure that La Porte's police department is adequately compensated for its training efforts, paving the way for enhanced public safety measures in the region.