The results of an online survey of Cottonwood-area residents by the Cottonwood Police Department are in, indicating a positive relationship between residents, employees and police officers and staff.
Mailed with all Cottonwood utility bills, the survey sought to “ensure the department is meeting the community’s needs and expectations,” according to CPD Det. Sgt. Tod Moore. “The survey posed key questions to help the department determine citizen perceptions of safety, quality of life and quality of police services. The survey allowed residents to convey their priorities for enforcement, which will help the department prioritize services.”
“Both the response rate and feedback solidify my firm belief that Cottonwood is a balanced and engaged community focused on real outcomes that benefit the greater good,” stated CPD Chief Steve Gesell. “We are cognizant that many police organizations do not currently enjoy that environment, and we’re grateful.”
Calling the survey results a “report card,” Moore added that the insight provided will help shape the department’s future, enhancing training and establishing goals for the coming years.
“We had over 338 respondents to the survey,” Gesell stated. “Drugs being a significant concern, we need to continue to leverage alternative sentencing and support PANT and other enforcement initiatives. We’ve had some phenomenal early successes with alternative sentencing, which translate to fewer police contacts and future crimes committed.”
Gesell added that the survey produced a few comments regarding the desire for a “less militarized” appearance.
“Several initiatives intended to increase our transparency include formation of a police chief’s citizen’s advisory council, enhanced educational opportunities focused on police use of force and citizens police academy,” Gesell stated. “We will also seek to enhance traffic safety more than we currently do as that was also at the top of the list of concerns for citizens.
“The public survey is simply one formalized mechanism to communicate with those we serve intended to enhance the positive impact we can make in our community. Public input is invaluable as we assemble our strategic plan which will serve as our agency’s road map for the next five years.”
