The University of Texas at Arlington will lead a staffing study for the Dallas County Constable's Office, one of the state's largest, to recommend ways to optimize resources and improve efficiency.
UTA's Institute of Urban Studies, part of the College of Architecture, Planning, and Public Affairs, will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the constable office's operations, workload and resource allocation. Launched in January, the staffing study—the first one conducted of the Dallas County Constable's Office in some 20 years—aims to ensure efficient and effective staffing to meet community needs.
The Dallas County Constable's Office is a law enforcement agency that serves civil and criminal processes throughout the county. Constables are elected peace officers whose responsibilities include issuing traffic citations and serving warrants and civil papers such as subpoenas and temporary restraining orders.
"This partnership with Dallas County reflects UTA's commitment to using research and data-driven analysis to support local government agencies," said Hannah Lebovits, assistant director of the Institute of Urban Studies. "Our goal is to provide evidence-based recommendations that will help optimize staffing and improve overall service delivery."
The study will assess key performance indicators, staffing levels and operational demands to develop strategies for improved effectiveness. Researchers will also compare Dallas County's constable staffing with similar offices in other jurisdictions to identify best practices.
"As one of the largest constable offices in Texas, we must utilize our personnel and resources in the best possible way," said Michael Orozco, constable for Precinct 5. "We look forward to working with UTA to gain valuable insights to help us better serve our community."
Orozco said having UTA's Institute of Urban Studies lead the study is a significant opportunity for the constable's office. He believes the research has the potential to transform agency operations, with researchers conducting ride-alongs to gain a deeper understanding of staffing needs.
Ronica Watkins ('19 Ph.D., Urban Planning and Public Policy), budget officer for Dallas County, said UTA was selected for its data-driven approach.
"I've seen firsthand the expertise UTA and its researchers bring to the table," said Dr. Watkins, a UTA alumna. "During the time we've worked together, Dr. Lebovits and the Institute of Urban Studies has showed that they listen and care about our constables and the communities they serve."
