The Lakeland Police Department played host to Leadership Lakeland Class XXVI this morning when the group visited the police station to learn more about policing in our community. Leadership Lakeland is a program hosted by the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce. Its purpose is to introduce leaders to the various components that make up our great community and the challenges we all face to ensure Lakeland remains a world-class place to live and work. The entire day today was "City of Lakeland Government Day" for the class as they toured other city departments in addition to the police department.
The class participants were briefed by Chief Boatner on the critical issues and challenges that face us today. Those challenges include budget cuts, staffing shortages, emergence of new crime trends such as cyber crimes, and growth management. Chief Boatner also explained the community policing philosophy we use here in Lakeland.
After a tour of the prisoner book-in facility, participants visited a display of various tactical equipment, including the police helicopter, SWAT Rescue Vehicle, and a K-9 demonstration.
We enjoy sharing our facility with groups and showing our tactical equipment. A visit by Leadership Lakeland is always a big event for us, and we appreciate them taking the time to stop by the police station.
- Asst Chief Bill LePere
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