Police Chief Troy Hebert told the Public Safety Committee that general calls for service were down in June and that department efforts, including narcotics enforcement and traffic detail, have contributed to the trend.

"In the month of June, our officers answered 766 calls," Chief Hebert said. He told the committee burglaries and shootings were low and noted the department issued 82 traffic citations and 19 narcotics arrests in the month. He said staffing has improved and some officers hired earlier this year are now fully operational.

Chief Hebert also invited the council and public to "Splash with a Badge" on July 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at CW Edwards Park (near Shady Oaks/Cedar Street toward East Park). The event will include inflatables, water slides and community engagement with officers.

Hebert briefed the committee on a new state law that makes operating a handheld cell phone while driving illegal starting Aug. 1. He said police will issue warnings through Jan. 1 and will begin issuing citations after that date.

The report was informational; the committee took no formal action. The chief thanked volunteers and donors who support youth programs and noted community outreach at recreation events has helped engagement with young people and families.