Strengthen Safety Forces Recruitment and Retention
Description
Enhance recruitment and retention of Akron Police Department (APD) and Akron Fire Department (AFD) personnel.
Why is This Important
Well-staffed safety forces mean faster response times and stronger community relationships. Attracting and retaining qualified officers and firefighters is foundational to delivering the public safety services residents count on.
Initiative Wins
Hired a dedicated HR recruitment and retention specialist for safety forces in late 2025.
Increased APD candidates from Akron in 2025.
Grew AFD Explorers program participation in 2025 from 5-6 to 15-20 individuals monthly through enhanced social media outreach.
Impact Spotlight
What We’ve Done This Quarter
Continued expanded recruitment efforts and methods for APD and AFD to broaden the pool of qualified candidates.
What We’re Working on Next Quarter
Continuing to broaden and enhance safety forces recruitment.
Improving availability of virtual and offsite AFD hiring tests.