Op-Ed Investing in Public Safety Is a Shared Responsibility

Lake Forest Park Police Chief Mike Harden stresses the critical need for a temporary levy increase to maintain public safety services. The police department operates on a tight budget, facing rising costs for dispatch, jail fees, and officer salaries, which threaten its operational capacity. Harden notes that experienced officers are leaving, taking valuable institutional knowledge with them, which increases the burden on new hires. Current staffing shortages lead to longer response times and reduced proactive policing, heightening public safety risks. The department has relied on grants and support from a nonprofit foundation, but this approach is not a sustainable solution.

Officer wellness is also at stake, as burnout and mental health issues affect performance. The community’s support through a levy increase is vital for maintaining safety services. Harden expresses gratitude for the City Council's efforts to address budget challenges while seeking resident input.