What might a municipality do if it does not meet the population requirement for a police department?

When a municipality does not meet the population requirement to establish its own police department, creating a contract with another agency is a practical solution. This approach allows the municipality to access law enforcement services without having to maintain an independent police force. By contracting with an existing police agency, the municipality can ensure that its residents are provided with necessary law enforcement support, often leading to more efficient use of resources and expertise that may not be available locally.

Utilizing external contracts also allows municipalities to adapt to changing circumstances without the burden of staffing and managing a full police department. In this way, they can maintain public safety while aligning with their budgetary constraints and population size. This is particularly useful for smaller communities or those that may have fluctuating populations, enabling them to have access to law enforcement services as needed, thereby ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.