PCC Steve Turner has written to Cleveland’s four council leaders as part of his campaign to cut council tax bills for special constables.
Special constables are volunteer police officers who have the same powers and responsibilities as full-time officers, but deliver their duties in their spare time.
Cleveland Police currently has just over 50 special constables who registered 20,091 volunteer hours over the last 12 months – equating to 837 days.
As part as National Volunteers Week, Steve has called upon Cllr Shane Moore, Cllr Bob Cook, Mayor Andy Preston and Cllr Mary Lanigan to take his proposals to full council meetings for consideration.
Steve said: “Our special constables play an invaluable role in supporting Cleveland Police to keep communities safe, with many of them volunteering hundreds of hours for their communities every year.
“They sacrifice time with their loved ones to attend emergencies, support neighbourhood policing teams and keep our roads safe.
“Whilst they expect no remuneration for their duties, I want to thank them for their service with a reduction in their council tax bills.”
Special constables have already received a council tax exemption in Lincolnshire and Humberside police force areas, and a similar system operates locally for foster carers.
Steve has also made a commitment to increase the number of special constables working in Cleveland – and believes his proposals could act as an incentive.
He added: “Sadly the number of special constables in Cleveland has plummeted over the last few years, with just over 50 remaining.
“I want to work with the Force to look at how we can recruit and retain officers who have a passion to give back to their communities.”