Government
Officer hires to help restart traffic patrol unit in Hutto The Hutto Police Department has hired nine new officers since October due to an overwhelming recruitment response, Police Chief Jeffrey Yarbrough said in a presentation to the City Council Jan. 18. The boost in the department’s ranks is expected to ease concerns related to traffic enforcement and response times. In a nutshell “This is an example of good leadership, because part of the problem is not just pay, it’s also how the people are treated. And so when word gets around, ‘Hey, you’ll get treated with respect in Hutto, and you’ll get paid also for doing that,’ it’s like a one-two combination.” MIKE SNYDER, HUTTO MAYOR
Fritz Park project to begin this summer Pre-construction tasks for renovations to Fritz Park in Hutto began in January, while work to improve the park is expected to begin this summer. What residents need to know Locals may notice fences on the western side of the park as crews begin surveying, grading and performing erosion control. Area residents will be notified before construction begins. The project is expected to wrap up by spring 2025.
Yarbrough informed council the Hutto Police Department has faced staffing shortages in the past, with 16 vacancies in 2022. However, the recent hires have enabled the department to reorganize patrol areas and establish a dedicated traffic enforcement unit meant to decrease how often officers are diverted on patrol. Though the police department has made great strides to fill its ranks, the agency is still looking to fill positions that would “re-establish previously collapsed essential units,” as
indicated by city documents. These positions include: • a crisis intervention specialist, • crime scene tech • information technology specialist City Council approved a request for a budget amendment allowing additional funds for the department to continue their recruitment process.
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