Chelsea police department unveils $205K budget for new equipment and staffing upgrades

Chelsea City Council has approved a significant restructuring of the police department's budget, which includes the addition of a new sergeant to enhance supervision and reduce overtime costs. This decision comes as part of a broader effort to implement a new 4-on, 4-off shift schedule, aligning with national standards and improving coverage during peak hours.

The police department's operating expenditure budget remains level-funded, with adjustments made to meet specific departmental needs. Notably, $205,000 has been allocated for capital projects, which will fund essential equipment such as tasers, camera replacements, and a new food truck vehicle.

During the meeting, Chief of Police highlighted the department's commitment to community service and transparency, noting a decrease in citizen complaints despite the challenges of recent retirements that have resulted in a loss of over 200 years of experience. The chief expressed confidence in the department's ability to maintain effective policing through a young and vibrant command staff, which has seen a turnover of about 20% since he took office.

Council members raised questions about the budget's implications for crime deterrence, particularly in light of recent incidents. The chief emphasized that maintaining adequate staffing levels is crucial for community safety and that the department's proactive engagement strategies have contributed to a 7% overall reduction in crime.

Concerns were also raised regarding the lack of language stipends for bilingual officers, which could address perceived disparities in workload among officers who speak multiple languages. The chief acknowledged this issue and indicated that it was discussed during recent contract negotiations but was not implemented due to complexities in equitable assessment.

As Chelsea continues to adapt its policing strategies, the council's decisions reflect a commitment to enhancing public safety while addressing the needs of both the police force and the community it serves. The department is set to welcome four new officers into the academy soon, marking a positive step towards replenishing its ranks and ensuring effective law enforcement in the city.