Parsippany police report budget increases and crime reduction success to town council

In the heart of Parsippany-Troy Hills, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as the Town Council convened for the 2025 Budget Hearing. The police department took center stage, with Chief Pantina, Deputy Chief Dowd, and Captain Carney presenting their budgetary needs and reflecting on the department's progress over the past year.

Chief Pantina opened the discussion with gratitude towards the council and the mayor for their ongoing support. He emphasized the department's mission to provide exemplary service and protection to the community, highlighting a commitment to building public trust through professional conduct. This mission, he noted, is intricately tied to the department's budget, which aims to enhance community engagement and officer visibility.

The chief reported a significant increase in police activity, with calls for service rising by 15,000 and motor vehicle stops increasing by 8,000 over the past year. Notably, residential burglaries dropped from 51 to 29, a testament to the department's proactive approach. The chief attributed these improvements to a revamped scheduling system that has reduced overtime costs by 50% for patrol officers.

However, the department faces challenges with officer retention, as many are eligible for retirement. Chief Pantina noted that 11 officers could retire this year, which underscores the urgent need for hiring new personnel to maintain operational effectiveness. The budget includes provisions for adding five new officers, aiming to bolster the department's strength to 106 officers, a number that may need to be reassessed as the township continues to grow.

Council members expressed their appreciation for the department's increased visibility and community engagement efforts, such as "Coffee with a Cop" events. However, some raised concerns about the timing of these events, suggesting that evening sessions might encourage greater public participation.

The discussion also touched on the department's training requirements, which have contributed to overtime costs. Chief Pantina explained that state-mandated training often requires officers to attend sessions outside their regular shifts, adding to the budgetary strain.

As the meeting progressed, the council acknowledged the department's achievements while also recognizing the need for ongoing support and resources. The chief's passionate defense of his officers and their commitment to the community resonated throughout the room, leaving attendees with a sense of optimism about the future of public safety in Parsippany-Troy Hills.

With the budget hearing concluded, the council's decisions in the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the police department's ability to serve and protect its growing community effectively.