The results of a workplace assessment recently completed for Tucson’s Public Safety Communications Department has caused concern among city leaders who are working to address “fundamental problems in the operation of the department.”
The department is responsible for dispatching 911 calls for police and fire departments.
The third-party review by Traaen & Associates LLC includes interviews with 108 employees and outlines a variety of workplace issues, including staffing levels, recruitment, training, employee morale, instances of harassment and lack of accountability.
There are currently 165 budgeted positioned within the department, but not all of them are filled, according to the city manager.
“The contents and allegations contained within this report, if true, are simply not acceptable,” Mayor Regina Romero said.
“First, and most importantly, our 911 call takers and dispatchers are the first line of emergency response for our community,” Romero said.