MIAMI, OKLAHOMA -
The Miami, Oklahoma Police Department makes some upgrades to its facilities.
Police Chief George Haralson tells us the structure was in dire need of repair.
The members of the police force aren't the only ones who appreciate the upgrades. Miami resident James Leon says the facility was overdue for an upgrade.
"The outside was embarrassing just to be real frank about it," Leon says.
Chief Haralson agrees with Leon.
To fix the problem the department installed a new front door, new sign, visitor parking, a flag pole, and new siding.
The police chief says the changes aren't just for the department.
"The community are partners with the police department and it's important for our physical structure to be appealing, to be professional looking," says Chief Haralson. "We're trying to re-image and re-engage and be a part of the community on a higher level."
The department's break room also received a renovation with cabinets, a sink, and individual workstations.
Two of the department's detectives did the manual labor, significantly cutting project costs.
"Improvements to both the interior and exterior of the police department cost around $4,000," says Chief Haralson.
The budget also included painting several of the police cars, and giving new uniforms and badges to officers.
"I love all the changes, all the patrol men here do," says Corporal Lance Bacon. "It's been nothing but good changes since Chief Haralson has taken over. Morale is up."
Leon says the changes are highly appreciated.
"Going by it has a much better, nicer appearance, and that's a very nice area, and it's really nice to have something to be proud of," Leon says.
The department says this is just the beginning of improvements.
Chief Haralson hopes to tackle renovations on the department's communication center next.
Before recent renovations
After recent renovations
