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Lakewood Police Department Presentation: <br />Police Chief Fischer delivered a detailed presentation regarding the Police Department’s 2024 <br />Budget. Chief Fischer provided an overview of the Police Department’s staffing conditions. He <br />highlighted that the Police Department’s goal is to attract the best and most qualified police <br />officers. He noted that in the future, the Police Department aims to maintain full staffing despite <br />an increasingly difficult labor market. He noted that the Police Department is budgeting for one <br />more K-9 officer. Chief Fischer went on to explain the Police Department’s community outreach <br />initiatives, such as Coffee with a Cop, Lakewood’s Safe Place Initiative, and providing Police <br />th <br />presence at large events such as the 4 of July fireworks show and Light Up Lakewood. Chief <br />Fischer elaborated on recent technological enhancements within the Police Department, <br />highlighting the installation of ten state-of-the-art license plate reading cameras across the City <br />and the establishment of a dedicated technology officer position. Chief Fischer acknowledged the <br />great training that Lakewood Police provides its officers. He pointed out that Lakewood Police <br />has not had to use deadly force in nearly two decades, emphasizing that this achievement is a <br />result of the exceptional training and commendable performance of Lakewood Police Officers. <br />Councilman Shachner asked a question regarding the passage of Issue 2 and the current training <br />of Lakewood’s K-9 unit. Chief Fischer responded by stating that the new police dog is not <br />trained in marijuana detection and assured that future police dogs will not be trained in marijuana <br />detection either. <br />Councilman Shachner asked a question regarding Lakewood’s ParkMobile system. Chief Fischer <br />responded by acknowledging that there were a few hiccups in the system's initial <br />implementation. However, he assured the Council that recently, the operation of the ParkMobile <br />system has become much more efficient, particularly in terms of parking enforcement. <br />Councilman Shachner asked a question regarding overtime pay. Chief Fischer responded by <br />explaining that overtime pay has increased due to recent turnover within the Department. <br />However, he emphasized the Department's unwavering commitment to prioritizing the well- <br />being and protection of Lakewood’s citizens, regardless of the associated costs. Chief Fischer <br />affirmed that the Police Department is committed to maintaining safety and security without any <br />shortcomings. <br />Councilman Rader asked a question about the balance of public safety and privacy regarding the <br />increase in police cameras throughout Lakewood and the use of the Police Department’s drone. <br />Chief Fischer responded by explaining that the cameras and drones owned by the Police <br />Department are designated for specific situations and are not available for general use. He <br />mentioned that policy experts regularly provide updated case law guidance on this matter. <br />Furthermore, Chief Fischer clarified that drones are utilized for particular situations, such as <br />emergency situations or significant community events, rather than for general use. <br />Councilmember Marx posed a question about Lakewood ordinances related to bike safety. She <br />specifically highlighted concerns about cyclists in Lakewood not wearing reflective gear at night <br />and suggested the potential implementation of a bike safety program. Chief Fischer responded by <br />5 <br /> <br />