Police Administration
The proper administration of a law enforcement agency brings focus to the organization. It also provides its members the direction and the freedom of action necessary to effectively serve the Community. The Chief of Police is responsible to the Mayor for the administration of the Police Department
Chief Steve Hensel
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Chief Hensel joined the Department in 1994 after serving more than 15 years with other law enforcement agencies. The Chief evaluates conditions related to crime and disorder, prepares operational and budget estimates, presents appropriate reports, allocates internal resources, and works with local government and civic leaders to address Community issues. Chief Hensel holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Nebraska and a Master of Strategic Studies Degree from the United States Army War College at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania. A recipient of the Bronze Star Medal and the Nebraska Legion of Merit, Chief Hensel is an Army Reservist with more than 31 years of active and reserve experience including tours in the Korea Demilitarized Zone and in Baghdad, Iraq.
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Personnel
With the assistance of subordinate leaders, the Chief oversees the activities of 11 police officers, 2 reserve police officers, 5 dispatchers and 1 community service officer. This responsibility includes maintaining internal discipline, evaluating performance, managing payroll expenses, and assisting the City with personnel records management.
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Budget and Finance
The Governing Body provides the Department the resources necessary to meet the needs of the City. The Chief is responsible to use these funds to achieve the maximum affect at the least expense.
Planning and Analysis
The Department evaluates conditions of crime and disorder within the Community and develops plans to meet these challenges within resource constraints.
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Organization
The Department is divided into 3 distinct sections which perform specific functions enabling the organization to best serve the Community. The leaders of the Communications, Patrol, and Support Sections answer to the Chief of Police.
Communications Section
The members of the Communications Section operate the City Emergency Communications Center. This includes:
- Answering 9-1-1 calls;
- Managing City radio communications;
- Activating Community warning systems;
- Responding to the needs of police officers;
- Managing Department records;
- Assisting station visitors; and
- Maintaining communication links with State
and local emergency services.
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Patrol Section
The members of the Patrol Section reduce incidents of crime and disorder and respond to requests for service. This includes:
- Patrolling the City;
- Identifying conditions facilitating criminal
behavior and disorder;
- Presenting public safety and prevention
programs;
- Apprehending law violators;
- Enforcing traffic laws and investigating
traffic accidents; and
- Assisting other law enforcement agencies.
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Support Section
The members of the Support Section devote attention to non-emergency services and maintaining the materials, equipment, and facilities necessary for the operation of the Department. This includes:
- Operating the Surrey;
- Maintaining the police station and grounds;
- Accounting for Department equipment;
- Servicing vehicles;
- Assisting in criminal investigative matters;
- Sharing information with other agencies; and
- Supervising Community volunteer
assistance.
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