March 2010

We are less than 2 months until the 2010 conference. We have decided to change the structure this year. In years past we have had a day of incident debriefs, training opportunities and product demo. The second day was scheduled for our main speaker. In order to provide quality training for everyone at the conference we decide to not have a specific guest speaker but rather several more breakouts on both days.

We have tried over the last year to cut costs with out cutting the training. We all look forward to incident debriefs and networking. We have tried to expand the training opportunities by adding half a day of breakouts.

There are two new significant additions to the schedule this year. On Sunday, the 25th there will be a Board Meeting scheduled prior to opening the hospitality room. All commanders and team leaders are invited to attend. The Board will be prepared to answer questions in regards to the NTOA SWAT Standards that have been established. On Monday the 26th prior to the breakouts we have arranged separate meetings more each area. The area representatives as well as the Executive Board will be there to talk about any issues or concerns you may have.

Commanders and team leaders, over the summer you received a (for lack of a better term) SWAT survey from us. The survey contained questions in regards to number of personnel on your team, training hours, and access to various resource and specialty services. Those of you who have not completed the survey if you could do so prior to April 1st. This will allow the Board to compile data to study to see where we stand vs. NTOA SWAT standards. If you need the link to the survey please contact any Board member.

We look forward to seeing you in April.

Take care, check your 6, and be safe,

Officer Aaron Paul
President S.O.T.A.          
Bloomington Police Department
952-563-4900