The Shrewsbury Police Department is in the process of applying for accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

CALEA is a voluntary, non-government agency formed to create a professional level of service offered by local law enforcement agencies. The commission members have diverse backgrounds; judges, law enforcement administrators, educators, legislators, and lawyers. During this process, the police department has had the opportunity to conduct an analysis of its administration, operations, programs and services using nationally recognized standards of excellence in different topic areas.

As part of the accreditation assessment process, the police department is undergoing an "on-site" assessment Saturday through Wednesday, Dec. 13 through 17. CALEA assessors will conduct a public hearing at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, in the Shrewsbury City Center aldermanic chambers, 5200 Shrewsbury Ave. The public is invited to attend and make comments.

Persons who are unable to attend the public hearing and wish to make comments to the assessment team may call (314) 607-6509 between 5 and 7 p.m. Dec. 16 or write to CALEA, Attention: Steve Mitchell, program manager, 10306 Eaton Place, Suite 320, Fairfax, VA 22030-2201; or call (800) 368-3757.