The Nahunta City Council recognized several police officers during its regular monthly meeting.
Officers Brandon Todd, Larry Champion, Cole Sturgill, Jeff Sturgill, Jordan Melton, Chuck Wilson and Travis Smith each received their own personalized letters from Mayor Marty Lee during the Monday, July 7 meeting. Police Chief Brad Todd read each letter thanking the officers for their exemplary dedication, professionalism and courage.
Their commendations ranged from keeping homes safe from theft to arresting individuals in possession of drug paraphernalia to stopping child sex trafficking.
Chief Todd praised each officer for their level of commitment to the City of Nahunta even under negative feedback. Todd lauded his own dedication, which he deemed instrumental to helping the department to do what they do on a daily basis.
“The (national) news media is killing us as police officers, Police Chief Todd said. “The Mayor and I have been having discussions and we wanted to tell you how much we appreciate you.”
Photo By JUSTIN HALL City Manager Tom Wirth was also recognized by Chief Todd for his efforts to improve the conditions for the Nahunta Police Department such as necessary equipment like body cameras and modern technology that enhances the accountability during police encounters for the officers.
Wirth gave a lot of credit to the officers as well as the staff for their success.
“The clerks always provide us for what we need,” Wirth said. “These officers deserve the recognition.”
During public participation, Wayne Cox addressed the council about rattlesnakes still near his property at 85 Dude Circle. He brought up a very pressing issue as it relates to the safety of those in that area.
“I have an eight-year-old who thinks they’re sticks, but she knows better,” Cox said.
He also added the grass in that area needs mowing due to two bedridden residents who cannot perform the task.
The council said if it is a public health hazard, they can interfere. The Mayor and Wirth stated they would investigate the matter in order to see what necessary precautions need to be taken.
Chief Todd shared his June montly report with council members. He said officers made 139 traffic stops, issued 57 citations, handed out 82 warnings, filed 11 incident reports, one accident report filed, made six arrests made took out eight warrants.
Jeremy Ryan gave the Public Works report for the month with a total of 706 work orders completed.
City Clerk Angie Wirth gave a reminder about the centennial event beginning Monday, July 21. She also stated her office will be moving to the NPD office because Chief Todd needs more private space when conducting interviews.
The next Nahunta City Council meeting will be Monday, August 4 at 7 p.m.
