Communications Operator Retention Program

The Recovery Act Edward Byrne Memorial Competitive Grant Program (Byrne Competitive Program) will help communities improve the capacity of state and local justice systems and provide for national support efforts including training and technical assistance programs strategically targeted to address local needs. This competitive grant announcement focuses on initiatives in eight areas: 1) preventing and reducing violent crime through community-based data-driven approaches; 2) providing funding for neighborhood-based probation and parole officers; 3) reducing mortgage fraud and crime related to vacant properties; 4) hiring of civilian support personnel in law enforcement (training staff, analysts, dispatchers, etc.); 5) enhancing forensic and crime scene investigations; 6) improving resources and services for victims of crime; 7) supporting problem-solving courts; and 8) national training and technical assistance partnerships.

Under category 4, the Toledo Police Department will use the FY 2009 Recovery Act Byrne Competitive funds to hire more staff. The goal of the Department is to increase efficiency, prevent job burnout, and relieve staff of certain responsibilities. To meet the project goal, the Toledo Police Department plans on using funds to rehire six previously laid-off communications operators to answer 911 calls. The rehired operators will immediately assume duties in the communications center, which will lessen the burden on the existing operators.

CA/NCF