BY NICK MATTERA
Increased efficiency, boosted morale and state-of-the-art technology are just a few of the highlights in the new home of the Lewiston Police Department.
“I love it, the accommodations are much nicer, the technology is more conducive and all of our guys love coming to work,” Lewiston Police Chief Chris Salada said.
In December, the police department moved across town and set up shop in the former Lewiston-Porter School District Administration building on Creek Road.
“It’s much bigger here,” Salada said holding back a smile. “Have you seen our old location?”
The department formerly worked out of a 1,000-square-foot office at the Red Brick School House in the Village of Lewiston. Now they have 4,500 square feet to work with, something Salada said has effected the way his officers work.
“This has boosted morale. They look forward to coming to work, and that’s important because it makes them more productive and more willing to do their job,” Salada said. “They are coming here on their days off and taking pride in their work.”
He joked officers are even cleaning and straightening up the office.
The officers have four computer workstations, compared to one at the previous location. They received a grant to aid the purchase of a new computer server and programming that helps with all day-to day operations.
“Our entire computer system is brand new. In our old office we were running off a 10-year old server that was controlling four computers,” Salada said. “With our new server, all of our reporting is much faster and more efficient because everything is new and up to date.”
They also have purchased a new high-tech fingerprinting system that ties directly into the state’s criminal records database. They have installed a cinder-block ammunition room, with two large safes, used for storing equipment and ammunition.
“Traditional policing shows that there is a time consuming string of paper work that accompanies it,” Salada said. “If we can do things that will cut that down, and we have with technology, that’s a good thing.”
He said all the advancements keep the department on the road longer, as opposed to being tied up for hours with an arrest.
The department purchased the facility from Lew-Port School Board for $1, making it possible for them to move despite the tough economic times.
“We could not have done it without the school district,” Salada said. “In return for these beautiful accommodations, the school gets a greater police presence on campus.”
Plans are also under way to fund and remodel conference emergency operations rooms.
Salada said the emergency operations room would be available to any and all agencies who might need to be involved and would provide the Lewiston Police department with a valuable place to work.
But Salada said no part of the town is suffering from the relocation, all areas are receiving the same number of patrols. The department employs 10 full-time police officers and five part time and are serving all parts of the town equally.
“The building is perfect for us. We have been more than fortunate,” Salada said. “We are happy and comfortable here.”
Contact reporter Nick Mattera at 282-2311, ext. 2251.
