I think this is a reasonably easy and useful thing to change.

Not only is it good for the local cycling community to have an active dialog with the local police, but the police like to stay connected with their community as well. Most departments have a "community outreach officer" for this sort of activity. Start by asking teh department for your outreach officer to meet with your local bike club. The officer may refer you to a traffic officer or a bike patrol officer as an alternate point of contact.