Page 31 - NRH FY20 Approved Budget

BUDGET OVERVIEW

COUNCIL GOAL 3:
SAFETY & SECURITY

Strive to be the safest community in Tarrant County
and to be prepared for potential natural and man-
made disasters.

Objectives:

 Maintain a low response time

 Maintain low crime rate

 Provide effective and efficient police, fire and EMS

 Engage community in public safety programs and initiatives

 Maintain the City’s ability to respond to all large-scale emergencies

 Partner with the community to support modern law enforcement efforts that value the
sanctity of all human life

Accomplishments:

 The Fire Department was awarded the highest rank of the Public Protection Classification
(PPC) used by the Insurance Services Office (ISO) in May of 2019. The ISO rating moved
from a class 2 to a class 1 for the City of North Richland Hills. The highest rating is received
by having excellent water supply, emergency communications, and fire protection. This
award was a joint effort by Public Works, Public Safety Dispatch, and the Fire Department.

 The Police Department implemented several new technologies to aid in response and
service to the residents of North Richland Hills. A set of drones and a tactical robot were
both integrated into operations to aid in information gathering and scene security.

 Over the past 3 years, North Richland Hills has seen a 14% reduction in Part I crimes and
a 10% reduction in Part II crimes. Part I crimes include offenses such as homicide,
aggravated assault, rape, robbery, burglary, theft and auto theft. Part II crimes are simple
assault, narcotics, vandalism and other lesser crimes.

 In April 2019 we started the process of hiring six additional fire fighter paramedics to staff
the ambulance at station 5 full time starting August 1, 2019. This will bring the number of
full time ambulances in service to 4, which will reduce response times to the growing
number of EMS calls in the city.

31