The change is part of the city’s restructuring effort, according to a press release from BPD Captain Joe Qualters.
Beginning Nov. 17, parking enforcement officers began wearing their new uniforms, which identify their affiliation with BPD and feature badges on their shirts and patches on the sleeves, according to the release.
Some of their vehicles have also been changed to identify them as being with BPD. Officers have already begun working out of BPD since moving out of their offices in City Hall last week.
Parking enforcement officers do not have police arrest powers and will not take calls intended for the police.
“The addition of Parking Enforcement Officers is another step BPD has taken to provide additional presence in the downtown area,” BPD Chief Michael Diekhoff said in the release. “With all of the activity that comes from having more people downtown, we believe that they can help other officers already assigned in keeping the area safe for everyone.”
Parking enforcement officers have also been issued ?police radios so they can report emergencies or suspicious activity to central ?dispatch.
They will also continue to carry cell phones to notify shift central dispatch of non-emergency issues.
Additional training includes verbal skills to de-escalate volatile situations, towing procedures and how to direct traffic.
Holly Hays
