In a special called City Council meeting on Sept. 8, amendments to increase Jackson Police Department salaries & benefits and the addition of solid waste cameras were both approved in a 8-0 vote (Councilman Frank McMean was absent).
The budget amendment to increase JPD salaries & benefits by a total of $304,826 will take place on the department’s next pay period.
Police Chief Thom Corley expressed that this raise in budget for the police department will help recruit and retain officers when it comes to working in Jackson.
“We have to provide the tools, the technology and and the salaries to make it appealing for someone who wants to come work,” said Corley. “I’m so appreciative that the council hears what we are saying and understands it. The officers need to know the city supports them.”
The $27,960 addition of solid waste cameras will help the city crack down on repeat litter offenders and deter people from dumping illegally.
Danielle Wade, Keep Jackson Beautiful Coordinator, is hopeful that the cameras will improve the overall quality of Jackson.
“Hopefully, they’ll help us with enforcement and catching these people doing the littering,” said Wade. “Best case scenario, we reduce illegal dumping and littering in public areas. Whatever we can try to do to deter littering and illegal dumping in ways that have been proven in other areas.”
For more information about either amendment, contact your city councilperson.
