Blytheville Police Chief Ross Thompson said his department could improve its efficiency with patrol car computers.
Addressing the City Council's Police and Fire Committee Tuesday night, Thompson said the laptops would be a "powerful tool," especially beneficial when a suspect doesn't have a license on him.
"The efficiency of the officers, the efficiency of the department would improve vastly," the chief said.
Thompson noted Verizon offers a government unlimited data package for $40 per month, per computer. The software package for ACIC/NCIC would be another $35 a month.
He said the $75 per month is comparable to issuing officers Blackberry phones.
Thompson hopes to equip "25-30" cars with the Netbooks, which are about $20 each with a two-year contract, he said.
"The prices have really come down; it's there," Thompson said. "I think we've got to head in that direction."
Meanwhile, he said the department is still waiting for the two new patrol vehicles to arrive.
Also in his report, Thompson said the department is now staffed at 38 full-time officers after two resigned Tuesday, and a promotional assessment is in progress for three openings: one lieutenant and two sergeants positions.
Also, the board heard from Fire Chief Mike Carney that Blytheville maintained its Class 3 fire rating and the fire department is looking at how it can improve to a Class 2, which would mean lower insurance rates for citizens.
Carney also reported:
-- Though there are no openings at this time, the fire department has 15 applicants. Because of the heat, testing has been pushed back likely to the fall. Carney hopes to have 25 applicants by that time. Prospective firemen must go through physical agility and written testing to be considered. Qualifying is good for one year.
-- The department is cautioning firefighters about the heat, encouraging hydration.
-- Sunbelt Fire will be at the department today to showcase the new Hurst Rescue Tools.
-- Currently there are two firemen attending HazMat Chemistry training in Little Rock. Upon their completion, Blytheville will have six HazMat chemists.
-- The fire marshal will complete reserve officer training at the end of this month.
-- Capt. Joey Manrique recently completed the Instructor I course at West Memphis.
-- Approximately 90 percent of the annual business inspections are complete. Carney said the public has been receptive to the annual inspections and cooperative in resolving any violations.
mbrasfield@blythevillecourier.com