We find ourselves rolling into another year together as we prepare for 2018–2019. The LVPPA continues to be committed to our membership 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our Association has had an extremely positive year in terms of membership growth. During the month of May, I had the numbers run for membership in May 2017 and May 2018. In May 2017, we had approximately 2,524 members at LVMPD. The most recent numbers show us to be at 2,884 — a gain of more than 350 new bodies to our Association. This increase in membership also has a built-in number of retirements and promotions, so the actual number of new bodies in the LVPPA has grown even more. Since last year, I believe we have had 100% of sign-ups from every new academy. These new officers put their money and faith into the PPA, and we appreciate that immensely. We continue to be active and engage with our new officers in order to ensure that we keep a 100% sign-up rate in both the corrections officer and police officer academies.

The influx of new officers to the LVPPA has allowed us to continue providing excellent service and benefits to our entire membership. It seems as if we are hosting benevolent membership events at least once per month now, and all are highly attended. I have spoken to members of our Vegas Golden Knights, and they appreciate the support the LVPPA has shown them. In turn, we appreciate all that they have done for us. When we hosted a Knights viewing party at the office, the Knights provided us with hats, T-shirts and authentic game jerseys to give away to the members in attendance. We hope to strengthen our relationship with the Knights and continue to be a part of their growth. Go Knights Go!

We continue to have our battles with the Department. While we have a good working relationship with them, there are times when we must litigate issues for the best resolution. Understand that when we win or lose a case, those outcomes can become binding and either greatly benefit or greatly hurt our membership. Whenever possible, we try to work these issues out in advance for the best possible outcomes for our folks.

We will also find ourselves involved in contract negotiations as our current contract expires June 2019. Your PPA team has been and will continue to work hard toward a contract that will satisfy all of our members. The Executive Board has some new ideas for the coming negotiations that will enhance our Department’s reputation as one of the most sought-after agencies in the country.

The law enforcement profession is finally seeing some relief from the federal government, especially with the support of President Donald Trump, and it has been a welcome breath of fresh air. The passage of national legislation to enhance penalties for crimes against officers (H.R. 5698) was a huge win for all law enforcement personnel.

I hope this message finds our members happy and healthy; we look forward to a safe and prosperous year. As always, please feel free to contact me or any member of the Executive Board; we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Thank you and stay safe!