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Police and fire report equipment, calls and community events at Stamping Ground meeting
Summary
Police reported grant-funded ballistic vests and a phased camera billing plan; the fire department reported 220 calls last year and 170 so far this year, a usable generator, and plans for an Aug. 17 chili cook-off and National Night Out support; commissioners approved small-event budgets.
Assistant Police Chief John Giles told the commission he and Chief Don Whitlock will be fitted for new ballistic vests this Thursday; the vests will cost $4,500 but will be paid for by grant funds from the Attorney General’s Office. Giles also described billing for nine 'flock' cameras in two $6,000 installments so the city does not face a single $12,000 payment.
Fire Captain Andrew Tackett reported that purchases must be made using approved purchase orders signed by him or Chief Robert Hendricks. Tackett said the Stamping Ground Fire Department handled 220 calls last year and has received 170 calls so far this year. He said the station’s generator is on a concrete pad, propane is connected, and the electrical work is scheduled; although the generator installation is not complete, the unit is usable in an emergency. Tackett also said he will schedule hydrostatic testing and invited the public to a chili cook-off at the fire station on Aug. 17 at 6:00 p.m.
Commissioner Kendra Murphy invited support for National Night Out (Aug. 8 at Buffalo Square) and proposed buying food (hot dogs, chips, drinks, popsicles), saying leftovers would be used for the Stamping Out Hunger event. The commission approved a $300 spending cap for those supplies.
Why it matters: grant-funded vests reduce immediate local budget pressure for officer safety equipment; the fire department’s call volume and a usable emergency generator are operationally significant for public safety. The approved small budget for National Night Out supports community outreach and safety engagement.
What’s next: vests to be fitted this week; hydro testing and generator electrical work are scheduled; National Night Out activities occur Aug. 8 and the chili cook-off is scheduled for Aug. 17.
