Jackson Police Department more than $1 million over-budget
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JACKSON, Tenn. — The Jackson Police Department has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars paying officers for overtime. The department as a whole went $1.27 million over budget, and now the city council has to approve this money being spent. Councilman Scott Conger says it’s worth the cost. “It’s a large expenditure, but I think in times like this, we need to do what’s necessary. We need to make sure our police officers are ensuring the safety of our citizens, especially in the hot spots and high crime areas,” Conger explained. Councilman Johnny Dodd says they’ll do whatever it takes. “We’re trying to do the best we can and we’re going to do whatever it takes to put that money where the money needs to be,” Dodd said. Jackson Police Chief Gill Kendrick says this approval is imperative, and says through continuing patrols with more than 200 personnel and educating young people about crime, the city will need less money in the long run. “We’re seeing more and more participation by our citizens who are finally fed up with what’s going on. They’re picking up that phone and they’re calling, saying, ‘hey we want to help’,” Kendrick said. Council members will vote Tuesday on the proposed amendments to the budget. In addition to the police department, Jackson Fire, Public Facilities, Recreation and Traffic Signals Departments went over budget.
