The 2000 U.S. Census revealed that Hooksett had 11,721 residents. This represents 33 percent growth since 1990. Before this information was released, most Hooksett citizens probably thought our population was between 9,000 and 10,000. Along with a growing population come challenges. These include school funding and a need for increased municipal services.
Public safety is no exception.
The FBI provides guidelines for the number of police officers required to serve the population in different regions of the United States. Based on Hooksett's population, we should have 26-29 police officers. This does not reflect the impact of Hooksett's much larger daytime population and the traffic issues created by the thousands who pass through our town each day. Hooksett must increase the size of its police force. Funding for three additional officers is included in the 2001-02 budget to be considered by voters on May 8.