NCJ Number
114373
Date Published
1985
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This summary of a management review team's assessment of police and fire departments of Chula Vista, Calif. focuses on the feasibility of consolidating the two departments as well as other options for improving cost effectiveness.
Abstract
After identifying several positive features in the two departments, the review recommends against further consolidation. Lessons learned from successes and failures of other cities in merging police and fire departments are summarized. The review concludes that consolidation in Chula Vista would reduce operating costs only slightly and not improve service levels. Recommendations to improve police operations include adding staff, installing a more extensive system for managing calls for service, enhanced crime analysis, and directed patrol. The report also suggests constructing one new fire station and relocating others. Two other changes are proposed for future consideration: a cooperative homeowners insurance program to establish stronger financial links between the cost of fire suppression and fire insurance and modifications to the police organizational structure.