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Hampden public‑safety chiefs flag staffing and vehicle needs; board appoints probationary firefighter
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Summary
Police and fire leaders told the board police remain understaffed and need a cruiser replacement and handgun updates, while fire said a forestry truck arrives in February; the board approved a motion to appoint Evan as a probationary firefighter.
Department leaders used the Jan. 12 budget kickoff to press for constrained operating requests and note pressing capital and staffing needs.
Dan, speaking for the police department, said the current-year budget is 'on track' but the department is still down one officer and 'I need to hire 1 additional officer' to reach full staffing. He said detective duties are being covered by patrol officers and sergeants and that the department plans to recruit reserve officers to reduce overtime costs. Dan also warned of upcoming capital requests for cruiser replacements and duty handguns.
The fire chief reported that a new forestry truck is on the production line with expected delivery in February and that new reporting software will go live Feb. 1. The chief also described a recent multi‑week repair for a 26‑year‑old tanker requiring a custom manifold.
On personnel, with the fire chief’s full recommendation the board moved to appoint Evan to a probationary firefighter position 'subject to all requirements and permits.' The motion was moved and the board voted in favor.
What’s next: Police and fire will bring capital and staffing requests to advisory for consideration in the draft budget; the appointed probationary firefighter will be processed subject to standard requirements.
