CITY OF FRESNO
City Council President Mike Karbassi
WHEREAS , the Fresno Police Department's Citizens on Patrol Volunteer Unit is a dedicated group of community members committed to enhancing the safety and quality of life in Fresno. As the name suggests, the Fresno Police Department’s Citizens on Patrol team is comprised of citizens from the Fresno area who choose to volunteer their time and talents to the Fresno Police Department and our community. Guided by the mission to reduce crime, improve the quality of life through the development of community awareness, and form a partnership between the community and the Police Department, these volunteers play a crucial role in fostering a safer and more connected community; and
WHEREAS , the Citizen’s on Patrol program was launched in 1997. You may have seen the COPs patrolling in their white patrol vehicles, helping at the scene of traffic collisions, filling out paperwork, and standing by for tow trucks so that the traffic or patrol officer on scene can clear and be available for other high priority calls for service. The COPs can also be seen helping to block streets off for pre- planned events like parades and the month- long Christmas Tree Lane, as well as conducting high- visibility patrols in areas that have been impacted by recent vehicle burglaries or graffiti; and
WHEREAS , in addition to their regular patrol duties, the Citizens on Patrol Volunteer Unit supports numerous community events such as National Night Out, Neighborhood Watch meetings, Red Ribbon Week at local schools, Central Valley Honor Flight’s return home reception, Valentine’s for Vets and other community meet -and-greets. These events provide valuable opportunities for residents to interact with law enforcement, learn about crime prevention, and strengthen community bonds; and
WHEREAS , the volunteers undergo comprehensive training to prepare them for their roles. This includes crime prevention techniques, community engagement strategies, and emergency response procedures. They also participate in the Residents' Police Academy, an 18-week program that provides in-depth knowledge of police operations and enhances their skills. Through this rigorous training, volunteers develop the expertise needed to effectively support the Fresno Police Department and serve the community; and
WHEREAS, the Citizens on Patrol Volunteer Unit also collaborates with local organizations such as Neighborhood Watch Associations and HandsOn Central California. These partnerships amplify their impact, enabling them to reach more residents and address community-specific concerns effectively. Additionally, the unit includes eight nationally recognized AmeriCorps Retired Senior Volunteers, whose experience and dedication further enhance the team's capabilities and community outreach; and
WHEREAS , in 2024, the Citizens on Patrol Volunteer Unit provided an impressive 3,611 hours of volunteer service, showcasing their dedication and commitment to the community. Their selfless service exemplifies the spirit of community partnership and volunteerism. Their efforts have led to significant improvements in public safety and community relations, making Fresno a better place for all its residents; and
WHEREAS , in recognition of National Volunteer Month, we honor the Fresno Police Department's Citizens on Patrol Volunteer Unit for their outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to our community
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED , that we, Mayor Jerry Dyer and the Fresno City Council, recognize the dedication and commitment to community displayed by the:
“Citizens on Patrol
Volunteer Unit”
in the City of Fresno.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and
affixed the seal of the City of Fresno, California, this 10 th
day of April 2025.
_____________________________________________
JERRY P. DYER, Honorable Mayor
_____________________________________________ __________________________________________ MIKE KARBASSI, Council President MIGUEL ARIAS, Council Vice President
_____________________________________________ __________________________________________ ANNALISA PEREA, Councilmember District 1 TYLER MAXWELL, Councilmember District 4
_____________________________________________ ______________ ____________________________ NICK RICHARDSON, Councilmember District 6 NELSON ESPARZA, Councilmember District 7