This issue is deeply personal to me as I believe that regionalizing our police forces will bring immense benefit to both Arnold and Newkensington. The change would open up opportunities for receiving more funding for the departments, better police coverage and the chance for us to attract high-quality police officers by offering them competitive wages.

The current unregionalized police departments are less efficient in terms of coverage and funding. According to the National Police Foundation, regionalized police forces often perform at a higher level due to improved resources and increased coordination between departments (National Police Foundation, 2019). Moreover, in terms of community engagement, the US Department of Justice states that regionalization provides a better platform for building strong relationships between police and communities they serve - an approach known as community policing (US Department of Justice, 2017).

By regionalizing the Newkensington and Arnold police stations, we are not only enhancing the working conditions of our officers, but also fostering a police force that is better equipped to communicate with our community.

I urge you to join me in this drive for change. Please sign this petition and help us regionalize our police stations for a better Arnold and Newkensington.