Goodman Council OKs Police Upgrades
The Goodman City Council unanimously approved installing a microphone kit and its wiring system, a cage and a gun rack in an officer’s vehicle to help him protect and serve and to keep him safer while doing his job.
All the items were donated to the Goodman Police Department at a value of $2,200, said Officer Joe David. The items, donated by the Bella Vista Police Department in Bella Vista, Ark., are of “utmost importance” in helping promote a successful and safe work atmosphere, according to Goodman Police Chief Curt Drake.
David, in Drake’s absence, read his request to have the items installed to help further safety in the line of duty.
The estimate, which came from a business in Centerton, Ark., involves making sure the equipment is synchronized properly with the camera, installing all the wiring, cages and gun rack, and that all the equipment works correctly together, David said.
The officer told the council that he returned to full-duty that afternoon, after recuperating from an altercation related to arresting a resistant suspect earlier this year.
Alderman Calvin Wilson made the motion to have all the items installed in David’s Charger, at a cost of $530. The council approved the measure.
In other business, businesswoman “Granny” Linda Gill brought a dozen iced cinnamon rolls for the council and others to
“fight over,” she said, smiling.
Gill operates a bakery out of her Goodman home under the cottage law. She bakes pies, rolls and many other goodies. Business has been successful and “I would like it to be more successful,” she told the council.
Gill asked the council for permission to set up signage to gain more business. The Global Positioning System (GPS) takes customers to a different route, and away from Gill’s home. A sign would definitely help customers find their way to her house, she said. Mayor Greg Richmond asked Gill to coordinate efforts with City Supervisor David Brodie about a specific location. From there, based on the location, the two can determine if other agencies need to be consulted for permission.
The council also voted to temporarily put on hold the condemnation of the property at 108 Williams St. Jon and Misty Farmer had expressed interest at the last city council meeting about possibly renovating the property after the owner had reached out to them. The council voted to not stop the condemnation process, but place it on hold, so the Farmers can have more time to consider their options going forward.