Mayor's Corner

Police and fire protection are among the most important services a city offers. I want Lewisville residents to know that we have outstanding police and fire departments that measure up with the best in Texas and beyond. Lewisville Police Department recently received “Recognized” status from the Texas Police Chiefs Association in its Best Practices Recognition Program. This very prestigious recognition has been given to only 28 agencies in the entire state. It means LPD meets or exceeds more than 160 standards identified as best practices for a police department, including patrol and investigative operations, protection of citizen rights, property and evidence management and more. While being Recognized does not guarantee that a department will never make a mistake, what it does mean for Lewisville residents is that our police officers are well-trained, well-equipped and well-led. We have policies and procedures in place that help avoid problems, but also can identify and correct any problems that might arise. Lewisville Fire Department continues to be a model for fire departments across the state. Many area departments train at our local facilities and consult with our department officials. I know from conversations I’ve had with many of my fellow mayors that our fire department has a stellar reputation for professionalism and for its strong willingness to help other departments. One example is the annual “Keeping Tradition Alive” symposium that was started by our fire department back in 2008. This month, more than 300 men and women from fire and police departments inside and outside the United States came to Lewisville for a week of training in honor guard, bagpipes and drums. Several cities in North Texas have started their own pipe and drum corps during the past two years after seeing the positive impact of Lewisville’s program. Both of our public safety departments also hold annual citizen academies in which residents can spend some time learning and working alongside our police officers and firefighters. These free multi-week classes are very popular and fill up in a hurry each year. People who complete these programs learn the inner workings of the police or fire department and are able to become important community partners for the city. I encourage residents who want to learn more about the police and fire services to sign up for one of these academies when they are announced in the fall. I’ve spent time with many of our police officers and firefighters and I can say without question that they are dedicated and caring, and that they are outstanding representatives for Lewisville. I can sleep very well at night knowing that our police and fire departments are protecting me and my family. The city’s mission is to enhance quality of life for our residents and provide effective city services. The police and fire departments go well beyond that standard by provide exceptional services other cities try to emulate. I hope you are as proud of them as I am.

Updated last on 05/28/2010