Delavan Police Chief Michael Evans has been selected to lead a workshop at the upcoming International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference, taking place this October in Denver, Colorado. The invitation underscores Chief Evans' growing international reputation for crafting practical, tech-savvy solutions tailored to micro agencies—police departments with ten or fewer officers.

Evans’ session, titled “Doing More with Less: Innovative Resource Strategies for Micro Agencies,” will focus on strategies for stretching small-town budgets without compromising safety or service. He will guide attendees through cost-effective ways to leverage federal and state surplus equipment programs, repurpose existing technology, and implement IT-based solutions that enhance operational efficiency.

“Micro agencies face outsized challenges, especially when it comes to equipping staff with current technology,” Evans noted. “But we’ve found ways to work smarter by repurposing tech, leveraging surplus programs, and thinking creatively about how we deploy our resources.”

Evans' expertise stems not only from his current role but from a longstanding interest in computer technology. Even before joining the Delavan Police Department as a sworn officer, he was working behind the scenes on IT infrastructure and support—experience that now translates into tangible savings and smarter policing for the city.

His innovative mindset has already produced notable results in Delavan:

• Scissor Lift Acquisition: Through the U.S. Department of Defense’s Law Enforcement Support Office (LESO), Evans secured a surplus scissor lift—eliminating the need for costly annual rentals to hang Christmas decorations downtown.
• City Council IT Upgrades: He led the installation of commercial-grade networking, cameras, and microphones in the council chambers, enabling Zoom meetings during COVID and continuing to allow the city attorney to attend virtually. The initiative has saved taxpayers thousands in travel reimbursements for the city attorney.
• Park Surveillance: Applying his tech know-how, Evans built robust camera boxes for city parks that replicate $6,500 systems for just $1,200 each. The project, later reimbursed through a state grant, has already yielded $2,400 in restitution and significantly reduced vandalism in public spaces.

Evans has attended the IACP Conference for the past three years, reflecting Delavan’s broader commitment to professional development within its police force. His consistent presence emphasizes the department’s dedication to adopting new ideas and sharing successful models with other agencies.

At the upcoming session, Evans will offer attendees proven methods for implementing affordable IT solutions, navigating surplus acquisition programs, and adapting equipment for police use. His presentation aims to empower small departments to overcome resource limitations and better serve their communities.

Chief Evans’ invitation to the international stage showcases not just his leadership, but Delavan’s proactive approach to smart, sustainable policing—making the city a model for innovation among micro agencies nationwide.