Service
An investment in public safety will strengthen the community for the future.
As of this publication, the Joplin Police Dept. has 21 openings but needs an additional 22 officers to meet nationally recognized law enforcement standards. Employment trends show law enforcement careers as less desirable which creates more competition among cities to attract new officers.
Similarly, careers within the Fire Service are not as attractive when compared to the opportunities in the private sector. The City will need to add additional firefighters, new stations, and new fire trucks to reduce response times, maintain ISO rating, meet NFPA standards and provide the infrastructure that allows for economic development.