BPD hosts Open House

Public gets tour, visits local police station

The Buffalo Police Department held its 11th annual Open House on Saturday, Oct. 9, from 9 a.m. to noon.

A steady crowd showed up throughout the morning to take part in the festivities. The public was invited for a tour inside the station, sit in the police vehicles, and meet several members of the BPD, including Luna, the station’s two-year old rescue/service dog.

Complimentary coffee, water and donuts were handed out, as were wooden toys courtesy of the Buffalo Community Center Toy Shop.

“We were pleasantly surprised with the day’s turnout,” said Buffalo Police Chief Pat Budke. “We didn’t have it last year due to Covid, so for people to come out and see where we do our work and see the inside of the squads is a real thrill for them.”

The police station has two levels full of different work offices. There are no jail cells inside, but the station has three secured interview rooms, break room, two workout rooms, and an evidence station/lab.

Chief Budke is currently one of 20 staff employees at the BPD. There are 17 licensed police officers, one community service worker, and two clerical employees. There is also one volunteer unit, which includes nine reserve officers.

BPD provides 24-hour patrol service and responds to all criminal complaints, medical emergencies, and other calls for service within the Buffalo City limits.

 BPD typically shares its Open House with the Buffalo Fire Department, but the Fire Department changed its date to the spring of 2022 to coincide with the opening of the new station.