Department History

The history of Lago Vista extends well beyond the past 40 years, reflecting the adventurous spirit, personal determination, and remarkable courage of the early explorers and settlers. Their vision and perseverance transformed dreams into reality, establishing a community where none existed before. In any society, challenges arise, but the pioneer men and women who developed Lago Vista from a barren landscape faced and overcame the obstacles in their way with great determination.

The Lago Vista Police Department was established on January 16, 1985, when the Board of Commissioners for the City of Lago Vista passed Ordinance No. 85-01-16-01, which granted authority to the city's police department. According to available records, Eugene Schoonover served as the first Chief of Police, and he, along with the first three police officers, began their tenure on April 15, 1985.

The Police Department was originally based at a facility on Bar-K Ranch Road. In 2012, it moved to a new, state-of-the-art facility located at 5901 Municipal Complex Way, where it continues to operate. The department has expanded and now consists of 21 sworn officers and 10 civilian employees across our Administration, Communications, and Code Enforcement Divisions.

Department Patch History

The police patch is the first standard police apparent was developed by the London Metropolitan Police, which was also the first modern police force, in 1829. The idea behind the police apparel was to ensure that the newly created police department could share joint authority. This idea worked because the “uniform” ensured people viewed the police force as a legitimate organization. During this time, the idea of police apparel and law enforcement patches gained momentum and quickly reached the United States.

Today, law enforcement patches are the most visible and recognizable symbol of policing worldwide; they are used to communicate the authority that the wearer of the uniform holds. It is viewed by many as a sign of authority, sacrifice, and service. 

The Lago Vista Police Department’s patch has always been a symbol of pride and service provided by the Police Department to the people of Lago Vista. Wearing the patch, presented by the Chief of Police. Wearing the patches on the police uniform is a moment no officer ever forgets and takes great pride in having sewn on their uniforms. The Lago Vista Police Department has had several patch designs in its almost 40-year history; it has undergone many changes throughout history and has not always been the same, as you can see from the attached photographs. All of these patches are recognized and displayed in the lobby of the Police Department. 

The growth of communities, the increase in the number and proximity of small farms, and improvements in education and communication systems finally brought lawlessness under control. E When Lago Vista was established in 1985, its citizens had a police department that was directly accountable to them, along with a new set of institutions right in their own backyard. 

Today, the Lago Vista Police Department is a highly professional organization that not only continues its traditional role of crime suppression but has also expanded into crime prevention efforts. At the Lago Vista Police Department, you can see the spirit of adventure and the courage reminiscent of early settlers. 

Lago Vista is a place where dreams have become a reality.