The City of Plymouth is looking to improve public safety.
The City announced on Wednesday (March 11th) that there is an increasing need to hire more police officers to manage rising incidents in their community, which continues to grow.
Regarding the state of the City and the department, Plymouth Police Chief Ken Riggles said, “The Plymouth Police Department has historically maintained high standards of safety, but the Department has not added a single sworn position to its staff since 1992. Our community has grown, the expectations we place on our officers have grown, and we’re operating without enough staff.”
They also noted that while the number of officers has remained the same since the early 90s, the population has grown by more than 30%.
With this in mind, Plymouth PD is looking to add five sworn-in officers, promote one officer to the rank of Lieutenant, and purchase three additional squad cars.
It is estimated these moves would add over $1 million to the City’s annual budget, which would prompt Plymouth to find ways to add the additional money necessary.
Proposed options include a referendum to exceed the state-imposed property tax levy limits or instituting a wheel tax in the City.
The City closed by saying, “In the coming weeks, Plymouth residents will receive a survey designed to help City leaders determine the best path forward.”
More information on the desire to improve public safety in Plymouth can be found by visiting plymouthwi.gov.
