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the transition would only be expedited. He went on to explain Chagrin Valley Dispatch's process and how it would negatively affect response times. He divulged conversations with Police ChiefKaucheck on the matter, and claimed that the chiefstated the measure would be near break even if dispatch operations were moved to Chagrin Valley Dispatch. Bryan McNeeley—12650 Detroit Ave. Mr. McNeeley, a sergeant with LPD, spoke to his experience as an LPD neighborhood officer and the paramount importance ofcommunication is in public safety. He noted that he started with LPD 15 years ago, and that nearly all of the dispatchers he started with are still with the city, which is very rare. He shared how he works with dispatch to monitor all the city security cameras throughout Lakewood to monitor high priority calls and get more information. In talking with cohorts that are using private dispatch centers, Mr. McNeeley has found that nearly all response times have increased with their use. He concluded by sharing information about school shootings where quick response times make an impact. He expressed doubt that a move to a private dispatch center would improve or even match the current expertise in dispatch and LPD's response times. Jeffrey Roda—12650 Detroit Ave. Mr. Roda, a 22 year Lakewood police officer, spoke about the importance ofLakewood's dispatch personnel and their positive effect on LPD, LED, and the citizenry. He stated that dispatchers are the true frontline first responders. He highlighted their local knowledge of the city and ability to use the citywide camera system to assist during a critical incident or investigation. He credited their presence as being one of the reasons why Lakewood has never lost an officer in the line ofduty. He applauded their long tenure and loyalty to the city,passing up more lucrative opportunities or promotions elsewhere. Nick Sambula—14601 Madison Ave. Mr. Sambula, an LFD Assistant Fire Chief and President ofLakewood's fire union, stated that his local does not support the disbanding ofany union in the city, especially the only all female union of dispatch. He added that no private dispatch center could replace the personal relationships between the city's safety forces and the dispatchers. Grant McKay—1535 Woodward Ave. Mr. McKay, a Lakewood resident and criminal defense attorney, spoke about delays he has seen in his line of work with private dispatch centers. He noted the significant investments in technology and equipment that would be needed if the city were to convert over to another dispatch system. Through a conversation with a Euclid police officer, Mr. McKay found that Euclid was not realizing the perceived cost savings that they were sold when converting over to Chagrin Valley Dispatch. He stated his approval in spending money on the local dispatch service because of its high quality and ability to deliver a safe environment. Jacqueline Sweeney—1171 Bonnie Ln. Mayfield Heights Ms. Sweeney, a 12-year Lakewood business owner, spoke against the proposed change to a regional dispatch center. As a mental health professional, she shared her appreciation for past work with LPD officers on the rare occasions she's needed to call them. She shared that LPD is known as a cohesive, disciplined police department with short response times and hold the respect of its community. She stated she's known survivors of violence who have relocated to Lakewood for its safety and the police department's rapid response times. She added that regionalization ofdispatch may make sense 6