MOUNT VERNON — Safety services show a slight uptick in volume now that summer has arrived.
Fire Chief Chad Christopher reports that the department responded to 517 runs in May, bringing the run volume to 2,510 thus far for the year.
“With summer, there’s a little uptick,” he said.
Police Chief Robert Morgan agreed calls for service have increased, including calls relating to domestic violence and attempted/threatened suicides.
First- and second-shift traffic patrol officers continue focusing on enforcement. Morgan said that with a dedicated traffic officer on the second shift, the department is getting more OVIs (Operating a Vehicle Impaired).
Police Department
Morgan said the department renewed two grants: Violence Against Women (VOA), a $35,000 grant that funds the domestic violence coordinator, and a Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), a $15,750 grant that funds the Flock camera system.
The department plans to apply for additional equipment grants and is working with the COPS program (Community Oriented Policing Services) for grant funding for new school resource officers.
•The department’s new K-9, Boss, completed training and is working the roads with his handler, Sgt. Aaron Collins. Boss is a 2-year-old German Shepherd.
•PAK United (Police And Kids United) released its summer event schedule. Events include First Fridays, dodgeball at Energy Field House, and fishing at Ariel-Foundation Park.
Fire Department
Chief Christopher’s personnel notes include promoting Capt. Joshua Lester to assistant chief and hiring Zach Wilson as full-time firefighter/paramedic. Both are effective June 10.
Lester’s promotion will start a trickle-down effect in leadership positions. The department will offer a captain’s exam next month, followed by a lieutenant’s exam.
•The department has been busy with CPR training. Any business or organization wishing to schedule a class can call 740-393-9515.
•Annual business fire inspections are underway.
•The department is gearing up for its annual fan drive. Community members can take new fans to the fire department at 200 W. Gambier St. Interchurch Social Services will distribute the fans. The department collected around 70 fans last year.
•Local third-graders toured the fire station before the end of the school year.
• The MVFD, in partnership with the American Red Cross, offers free smoke detector checkups and installation. Call the fire station to schedule.
Administration
Mayor Matt Starr said the opening of Hiawatha Water Park went well. Accepting credit cards has increased revenue. Patrons can buy pool passes online; gift cards are also available.
He said that Columbus Pool Management is in its second year of managing the water park, and many of the first-year bugs are resolved.
