City Government
BPD Union President Offers Swan Song
September 18, 2009 
KIP WILLS HAS BEEN A FREQUENT COMMENTER ON THE GUARDIAN–USING HIS REAL NAME–AS PRESIDENT OF THE COPPERS UNION. HE IS HEADED FOR THE BIG LEAGUES WITH THE FEDS AND ASKED THAT WE POST HIS FAREWELL.
I wanted to take a moment and thank you for your efforts for a more open government process. As you know, I share the strong belief that we need more openness at all levels of government. Although we may have disagreed over the years on certain topics, the base belief that government should exist for the safety and benefit of the citizens which it serves remains the same.
I have accepted a position running some of the enforcement programs in the foreign borders division of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration at headquarters in Washington D.C. After 21 years of service to Idaho citizens (State Parks and Rec, Idaho State Police, Boise Police, BLM Fire, Teton County Sheriff, Elmore County Sheriff and 3 volunteer fire departments) I am hopeful that I can bring my personal beliefs on smaller, more open and fair government to the federal level.
I have enjoyed my 10 years with BPD, 8 in union leadership. I will tell you having grown up in Idaho and worked all over Idaho, that although there may be some issues between BPD and the media, that I can honestly say that BPD has some of the best, hardest working officers I know. I have been proud to serve with these men and women and I thank them for their dedicated service. I thank you Mr. Frazier, and your readers, for the opportunity to hear honest feedback and to try and adapt my personal philosophy to help our society as a whole.
I have always been open here on this site, as well as others, about who I am and that I am reachable and will listen to positive input. If I can ever be of service to you or others in my new position (which is dealing with Canadian and Mexican trucking issues) please feel free to send a request through Dave (he has my cell) or contact me at [email protected] Thanks again.
–KIP WILLS
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Comments & Discussion
Comments are closed for this post.
Sep 18, 2009, 10:56 am
I never had any dealings with Mr. Wills personally, far as I know, but I believe that he and the vast majority of Boise Police officers are sincere in their intentions to “serve and protect” the citizens of their fair community.
Wills’ departure seems like a chance to thank “Boise’s Finest.” Which I do.
I also believe that the city makes an honest effort to screen out those who are not suitable for police work – the pathological bullies, sadists, control freaks, adrenalin junkies, etc. Now and then one slips through, and makes the headlines. But it’s because they are the exception to the rule.
Cops often work with the worst elements of society, and for that they have my sympathy. Nevertheless, it is imperative for them to avoid an “us versus them” mentality, where they view the citizenry as their adversaries. Most of us appreciate Law and Order, and understand the vital role that police play.
THANKS! (And thanks to the Guardian, for his efforts in expanding the dialogue. It’s a service to law-abiding citizens AND the Police Department.)
Sep 18, 2009, 11:39 am
Good luck and the best to you in your new paths.
Sep 18, 2009, 4:18 pm
This is really great that a watchdog site like this has such a good working relationship with local police that we get this type of correspondence.
I have worked with the BPD on some intense crime issues for a number of years, and I know that the local police are not only decent and professional but that they care about people.
I wish Mr. Wills the best in his future adventures!
Sep 18, 2009, 9:34 pm
Best of luck to you Kip. You have provided many hours of discussion and have always conducted yourself like a gentleman. Thank you.
Sep 19, 2009, 1:08 pm
Kip,
Best wishes to you on your new endeavor. It has been great working with you over the past 8 years that I have been at the Ada County Highway District. You are truely one of Boise’s Finest, and I count you as a friend. Godspeed to you on your journey to DC and in your new job. I know that you will do as good a job there as you have done in Boise. Sorry I can’t be there to wish you well, but be safe! Kyle has my e-mail if you want to drop me a line. Thanks for everything over the years – you are a great professional.
Sep 22, 2009, 5:04 pm
Best of luck in the new job; it sounds like they need you there.