The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is an organization that combines law enforcement and fire services into a unified organization with a goal of providing the highest level of professional public service to our community. Our diverse force, comprised of 257 employees, incorporates modern technology and comprehensive training techniques to enhance the organization’s overall effectiveness while continually striving to meet the challenges of the future.
We are responsible for meeting the needs of a community richly endowed with a wide range of ethnic and cultural diversity. We recognize the value of diversity within our own ranks as being absolutely necessary to carry out our roles as public servants.
As a fully combined Public Safety organization, our officers have opportunities to train in a wide variety of specialties. Officers aspiring toward promotional opportunities may progress upward into the supervisory ranks or specialized technical positions. Officers may serve as Criminal Investigators, Crime Laboratory Technicians, Neighborhood Liaison Officers, K-9 Handlers, and Drug Enforcement Investigators. Officers also have the opportunity to serve in special units, in addition to their primary assignments, such as the Honor Guard, Bomb Squad, and Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT).
The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is committed to a Community Public Safety service delivery model. Community involvement is a primary organizational goal. This approach is intended to enhance the relationship between citizens and Public Safety, facilitate an improved working environment, and assist in providing better services to our community.
Mission
In partnership with the community, the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all by providing professional police, fire and EMS service to the residents and visitors of Kalamazoo.
Vision
As leaders in public safety, KDPS strives to be a dedicated and diverse team of professionals who are committed to partnering with the community to ensure the City of Kalamazoo will be a safe and desirable place to live, work and visit.
Values
INTEGRITY – DEDICATED – EXCELLENCE
EFFICIENT – ACCOUNTABLE – COMPASSIONATE