The Community Justice Center (CJC), in a joint venture with the city of Ithaca and Tompkins County, has presented a detailed report aimed at improving the recruitment and retention of law enforcement officers. Collaborating with HCH Enterprises, the initiative seeks to make local police departments more attractive to potential recruits and support the existing workforce, addressing various areas including workplace culture and diversity.
The report offers a “comprehensive roadmap” focusing on the creation of an inclusive and supportive environment. It highlights the importance of setting realistic recruitment goals, enhancing community engagement, and fostering a sense of recognition and equity among the force. This approach aims to expand the pool of qualified candidates and ensure the longevity of current personnel.
In response to public concerns and the findings of the Reimagining Public Safety Special Committee, the report suggests several actionable steps. These include the evaluation of social media recruitment campaigns, updates to police department websites, and conducting a needs assessment for police equipment. By implementing these strategies, Tompkins County and the city of Ithaca aim to build a trusted and capable law enforcement team that reflects the community’s values and needs.
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