Lakewood Police introduces Assistant Chief Dave Blairge

Assistant Chief Dave Blairge introduced himself to the Public Safety Advisory Committee and summarized his background and immediate priorities. "I'm Dave Blairge," he said, noting prior service at the Pike Police Department and 22 years with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office and recent completion of the FBI National Academy. He said the department is "kinda steady" but currently has eight openings and three new officers starting next week.

Blairge told the committee the department is working to fill vacancies and complete required certifications for marine and dive teams so the department can increase patrol coverage at peak times. He described staffing and training constraints and noted the department's reliance on vessel registration funds for marine operations. The committee welcomed Blairge and did not take formal action; staff agreed to follow up on data requests and staffing specifics at a future meeting.