Tumwater police report hires underway and target spring start for body-worn cameras

Police Chief Jay Mason updated the Civil Service Commission on staffing and technology plans Thursday, saying the department expects to add multiple positions and is working toward a spring 2026 target for body-worn camera implementation. Mason said the department is in background checks for new officers, has one current opening, and expects to onboard multiple hires including a deputy chief and one or two Police Services Specialist I positions that will help with public-records redaction for body-camera footage. “So we're really gonna, be bringing on, needed resources, for the police department,” Mason said. On body-worn cameras, Mason said the department is finishing a needs assessment and will match that to vendor proposals before contracting. “We're gonna have a great product. I really hope we'll have some clear, pathway forward by the end of this year, with implementation. I would love to see this in spring,” he said, cautioning that contracting and equipment delivery can be delayed by supply-chain issues. The commission was told the city has dedicated staff — including a sergeant and a front-office supervisor — working on the program. Staff emphasized that scheduling, contracting and equipment procurement remain steps that could delay a spring deployment and did not provide a firm installation date. The updates were presented as informational; commissioners did not vote on any body-camera contracts at the meeting.