During the Windcrest City Council meeting on December 2, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding the leadership and operational environment within the Windcrest Police Department. The meeting highlighted the ongoing turmoil stemming from the actions of Police Chief Jimmy Cole, who has been accused of fostering a toxic work environment that has led to the termination of numerous officers and a decline in department morale.

A resident's passionate address underscored the emotional and financial toll on former officers and their families, questioning whether they could afford basic necessities like Thanksgiving dinners after losing their jobs. The speaker emphasized the "ripple effect" of Cole's leadership, which has reportedly resulted in the dismissal of 21 officers over two years, leaving only four employees from the department who have been there since 2018. This alarming turnover rate has raised serious concerns about public safety and the overall functioning of the police force.

The resident also referenced an employee satisfaction survey that revealed widespread dissatisfaction among officers, citing comments that described Chief Cole as unethical and retaliatory. Many officers expressed fear of speaking out due to potential repercussions, indicating a culture of silence and intimidation within the department. The survey's findings were described as "beyond alarming," with many officers reporting mental and emotional distress linked to their work environment.

In response to these allegations, City Manager Billy Gibson clarified that the council had received the survey results earlier in the year but had been unable to address them due to ongoing charter complaints involving city officials. He noted that discussions regarding the survey would not occur until at least February 2025, as pending ethics hearings must first be resolved.

The meeting concluded with a call for immediate action to address the issues within the police department, emphasizing the need for accountability and a healthier work environment for officers. The community's safety and the well-being of its public servants remain at the forefront of these discussions, as residents and council members alike seek to restore trust and integrity within the city's leadership.