The second three-year strategic plan for the Bloomington Police Department headlines Monday's city council meeting.  (WJBC file photo)

By Zach Dietmeier

BLOOMINGTON - As the Bloomington Police Department prepares to bid farewell to its chief another new chapter is unfolding.

After the implementation of a sucessful three-year strategic plan in 2009, the department is ready for its second period. Chief Randy McKinley, entering his final week with the BPD, said the next three-year segment will build off success in impacting criminal activity and building relationships in the community.

Main focuses will include decreasing crime, improving neighborhoods, enhancing community, and improving personnel, equipment, and police facilities. Some improvements also include re-evaluating the gun range east of Bloomington and acquiring larger squad cars.

McKinley hopes to see increased communication with the community at large. Goals include improving the quality of neighborhood life by cutting into local gang activity. Residents also will see more specialized patrols downtown to stem alcohol-related problems specifically seen in the bar district.

McKinley's last day on the job is Friday before he moves on to St. Charles, Mo. He's been with the department since 1984.

Managed Competition Policy

The city is looking at more ways it can partner with the private sector.

The city council will consider a Managed Competition Policy at Monday's meeting. The city plans to include proposals for funds dedicated to technical consultant services, expert visitors, and performance auditor services in the 2014 budget.

The policy would allow for better coordination with local unions and other private sector organizations in providing public services. City officials said the long-term goal is to provide residents with the best services at the lowest cost.

Zach Dietmeier can be reached at zach.dietmeier@cumulus.com.