Media Statement
“The Central Texas Public Safety Commission is encouraged by the proposed fiscal year 2020 budget that includes 30 more police officers as part of a four-year staffing plan, 32 firefighters for a new Del Valle station and 12 paramedics. We commend City Manager Spencer Cronk for his commitment to the community’s priorities and public safety.
Austin Police Chief Brian Manley says growth is the top public safety challenge facing the city. Homicides and property crimes increased last year, and more calls for service have made police response times slower. If we don’t provide adequate resources for first responders, the city will face the same plights we have with affordability and mobility, which is too far behind to catch up.
We urge the Austin City Council to support the city manager’s proposed budget and continue to invest in the four-year staffing plan to reduce crime and strengthen community policing.”
Pete Winstead
President, Central Texas Public Safety Commission