The Village of Holland police force has grown by two with the hiring of two officers.
At the October 1 meeting, council confirmed the appointments of full-time officers Nathan Hall-Berkey and Austin Krueger.
Hall-Berkey will be paid an hourly rate of $32.50 based on his five years experience with other police departments.
Krueger, a recent graduate of the police academy, will be paid $27.75 per hour.
In conjunction with their hiring, council approved the purchase of uniforms from Traffic Stop Uniform Supply for an amount not to exceed $3,400, and new bullet proof vests from Vance’s Law enforcement at a cost of $2,712.
The cost of their required physicals also will be paid for by council at a cost not to exceed $1,440.
Police Chief Jim Piotrowski thanked council for approving the appointments. “This brings our department to full staff,” he said.
Other Business
In other business, council:
•Approved the purchase of a camera through Unify for the McCord Road/Hall Street roundabout at a cost of $9,200.
•Appointed Tom Sturm, retired police officer, to a part-time position as administrative assistant, effective October 28.
He replaces long-time administrative assistant Leslie Ferman, who is retiring. Sturm will be paid an hourly rate of $26.60.
“We are thrilled to be able to bring Tom on board,” said administrator Bob Bethel.
•Renewed the payroll software licenses with Civica North America for $11,531.
Heard from Bethel that progress continues to be made toward the establishment of a joint economic development district with Swanton Township.
•Learned that the police department’s new Dodge Durango has been put into service.
•Heard from Jacob Barnes, president and CEO of the Chamber Partnership, who expressed appreciation to the village for its ongoing membership in the chamber.
He said the chamber continues to work on communications with local officials and the business community.
“Our goal is to meet with and help businesses on collaborations with the township, schools and village.”
•Adopted the updated Lucas County multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan developed by the county emergency management agency.
•Paid bills totaling $71,758.
The next village council meeting will be at 6 p.m., Tuesday, October 15, at the township meeting hall, 1245 Clarion Avenue, and is open to the public ~Jane Maiolo
