Police and fire chiefs update Batesville council on staffing, training and grant for smoke detectors

Police Chief John Scarbro told council the department had slightly fewer calls and accidents this month, one additional arrest and more reports; he said staff reassignments and recent hires have improved personnel levels and that the department is working to fill an investigator vacancy and add corporal positions to support patrol.

Chief Scarbro said several officers need recertification and the department is scheduling training, including a rifle class next week. He and council discussed equipment: the department has not yet ordered new radar units for new vehicles but plans to when vehicles arrive, and the department has a meeting scheduled with T-Mobile to test a wireless internet solution that produced faster-than-expected speeds during recent tests.

Fire Chief Martin McCullum reported an average month (43 runs) including structure and vehicle fires, medical assists and rescue calls. He said the department has reduced outstanding yearly inspections and is preparing annual NFPA tests for trucks and equipment. McCullum said the department applied for a smoke-detector grant and expects to receive 250 detectors with 10-year batteries for installation through coordinated home visits if awarded.

Council thanked both chiefs for the updates. No formal council action on staffing or grant acceptance was recorded in the transcript; chiefs provided status reports and said more details will follow as procurement and training plans advance.