Concerns, Complaints, Questions....Who Do I Call and When?

Everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.   You call 9-1-1.   Some people are having a problem trying to decide what constitutes an emergency.  The rule of thumb here needs to be, let the police department decide.  They are trained to do that.   It appears that a lot of folks do not realize they can call the police department to report ordinance violations and other questionable activities.  Chief Howell says that people tell him all the time, “I just didn’t want to bother you.”  So, they either do not call  or they call Town Hall to report the suspicious vehicle or a loose cow.  Or after hours they may call a staff member or a Councilmember at home.   

When we decided to start our own police department, we were adamant about having a strong community based policing policy.  This means that our police officers not only fight crime and catch speeders, but they help the citizens with everyday problems like noise complaints, loose livestock, illegal burning or other ordinance violations.  They cannot do anything if they find out about the problem the next morning or three days later.  They have to be notified immediately in order to respond.   With that said, on weekends, holidays, or after hours if you have a situation that may not be what you would consider an emergency  but you think may need to be reported, please call the non-emergency dispatch number for the Sheriff’s Department at 940.349.1600.  The Sheriff's Department will then dispatch a Bartonville officer.   If you have a question for a staff member, call Town Hall and leave a message for the next business day.