This year at the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police annual conference in Estes Park, Peni Barnes was recognized as the Professional Staff Member of the Year. The award is given for exceptional achievement by a professional staff member, in any police endeavor or specialty, that serves to enhance the professionalism, efficiency, reputation, and overall effectiveness of the police agency.

Peni has been an integral part of our agency since May 10, 2004, initially serving as a Master Certified Records Technician before becoming the Chief’s Executive Assistant in August 2005. She is truly the heart of our department, affectionately referred to by staff as the “Mom” of the department, due to her dedication and care for everyone.

Peni consistently handles every assignment with the utmost professionalism. Her responsibilities are extensive and go well beyond her job description. She has historically maintained the EPPD’s Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police accreditation standards and routinely takes on roles as a financial analyst, supply quartermaster, grant writer, historian, and photographer. Annually, she also expertly organizes the Estes Park Chief’s Charity Golf Tournament and our department’s awards banquet.

The year 2024 was particularly challenging, yet Peni excelled. In addition to her regular duties, she took on the crucial task of onboarding a new Chief of Police. Peni’s profound knowledge and understanding of the department provided a vital foundation for the new administration to build upon. She was a steady reference point, crucial for navigating administrative processes and ensuring transparency during several audits and professional reviews last year.

Furthermore, Peni almost single-handedly developed the 2024 PD draft budget and our department’s contributions to the town strategic plan, both of which were critical for the police department’s continued success. She was also pivotal in implementing much of the new administration’s vision, including organizing and marketing the new monthly “Coffee & Tea at the PD” meetings and assisting with the PD’s increased presence on social media.

When the Alexander Fire threatened Estes Park, Peni immediately pivoted to staff the Town’s Emergency Operations Center. Her presence there was instrumental in successful crisis management, where she served as a key liaison and coordinator between Town emergency management and our public safety partners. For Town directors who had not yet established working relationships with the new Chief, Peni was the essential link that ensured smooth information flow and proper communications. She connected necessary stakeholders and contributed significantly to EOC functions, ensuring the correct staff were invited to daily EOC update meetings, which provided maximum benefit to the Estes Valley.