Atlas Twp. – Although Deputy Dave McDonald won’t be back to work in the area, a contract renewal ensures the remaining deputies will return.
The Atlas Township Board voted to renew the contract, paying $374,265 for the next year, a 3.8 percent increase over last year.
‘It’s the smallest increase over the last four years,? said township supervisor Paul Amman.
The contract covers the cost of four full-time deputies, two vehicles, administrative work, and any needed police resources such as accident investigations.
Although four deputies aren’t always enough, when extra patrol is needed the sheriff’s department cooperates, says Amman.
‘It’s just an excellent way to have a police department out here,? he said. ‘A community of our size otherwise could not have the same coverage.?
Amman requested a permanent appointment for Deputy Paul Brooks, who filled in during McDonald’s health absence, as McDonald will be appointed to a sergeant’s post elsewhere in the county.
Brooks joins deputies Ron Whitney, Kyle Guest, and Dan Livingston in patrolling the area.