By Janine Davis Record Staff Writer The Marthasville Police Department is continuing to upgrade equipment with funds it received as part of its role in a federal drug seizure, with a second police car on order and plans for a multipurpose structure and evidence locker. Police Chief Gene Jenkins updated the board of aldermen on plans during the April monthly meeting. On Jenkins’ list for upcoming purchases is an aluminum structure that would serve as a vehicle garage and temporary kennel for dogs and cats. The city was recently informed of regulations required for longer term kenneling of animals and is seeking on-demand dogcatcher bids. No bids were received. The police department since has said it will attempt to partner with Warrenton on kenneling. The department is also exploring acquiring an evidence locker to provide stronger protection against theft. Jenkins said the storage unit also could house the department’s new computer server. Jenkins estimated that the aluminum structure would be in the neighborhood of $3,000, and the evidence storage locker about $2,000. A 2014 Ford Interceptor squad car that is fully outfitted will cost about $41,000 and should be delivered soon. “The board has approved Chief Jenkins’ list of planned purchases, and as long as these come in within the total federal seizure funds, the chief has discretion to proceed,” said Mayor Jason Schantz. In other news The board also approved a bid for street cleaning. Contractors and Municipal Sweeping Service will work for a maximum of eight hours at $150 for the first hour and $8 for each additional hour. The cleaning will be performed May 20. “We’re going to need to sweep up the cinders from the winter,” said Schantz. The board approved three liquor licenses for the Marthasville Community Club, including a renewal of the organization’s annual license, and one each for the June 7 mud bog and the Sept. 5-7 motocross event. Also during the meeting, Mayor Schantz paid tribute to outgoing Alderman Jim Struckhoff. “I want to thank you for all your years of dedication, service and sacrifice on the city’s behalf, and I hope that that’s not coming to an end,” Schantz said. “It’s been an honor and privilege serving with you and learning from you; you’ve been a great help to me.” Struckhoff said he planned to continue his civic involvement “on the other side” of the bench.
Marthasville
