Wausau Police Department. Image courtesy: WAOW TV
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Wausau Police Task Force has released its community input survey through the Wisconsin Institute for Public Policy and Service.
Task Force Chairman John Robinson says it’s the latest step in the group’s examination of the department’s policies and procedures. So far he says he feels good about what’s been revealed.
“I think the thing we have come away with to date is that Wausau is a leader in terms of adopting policies and procedures,” said Robinson. “Hiring for character and integrity and providing good educational opportunities [as well.]”
He says now they’d like to see if the public perception of the department reflects those findings.
“We are trying to model it a little bit after what the Wisconsin State Police Association does on a state-wide basis to learn what the public’s attitude is and how they’ve interfaced with police along with some other information,” he said.
That includes feelings on the social aspects of policing such as how officers deal with mental health incidents, homelessness, child welfare, and other social services.
He adds that the survey is open to anyone who has ever interacted with a Wausau police officer, no matter if they are a resident or not.
“We want to know what their reaction is, whether they live or work here. People that work here contribute to the tax base as well, and we do have ways to determine if they are residents or not,” he said.
Some 5,000 residents will receive postcards with invitations to take the survey. But participation is not limited to those individuals.
The survey remains open through the end of July. To take it, click here.
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