EAST ALTON – State Senator Erica Harriss (56th-Glen Carbon) announced she has secured $40,000 in state funding to help the Village of East Alton purchase new equipment for its police and fire departments.
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“Our police officers and firefighters put themselves on the line every day to keep our communities safe, and they deserve to have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Senator Harriss. “I’m proud to bring these dollars back to East Alton and help make sure our first responders have the resources they need when our families and neighbors are counting on them.”
The funding will help the East Alton Police Department purchase police camera equipment, less-lethal shotguns, pepper ball guns and a crime scene camera.
“Having updated equipment makes a true difference for our officers and gives them additional tools to safely respond to situations in our community,” said East Alton Police Chief Scott Golike. “We appreciate Senator Harriss working to bring these resources back to East Alton and supporting our department.”
The East Alton Fire Department will use the funding toward equipment including a CPR training manikin, turnout gear, an adult rescue manikin and a forcible entry saw.
“This equipment will strengthen both our training and our ability to respond when our residents need us,” said East Alton Fire Chief Jeremy Diveley. “We are grateful for Senator Harriss’ support of our firefighters and the East Alton community.”
“Public safety is one of our most important responsibilities as a village, and these are resources our police officers and firefighters can put to good use,” said East Alton Mayor Darren Carlton. “We appreciate Senator Harriss continuing to work with East Alton and helping us bring state dollars back home for our community.”
Senator Harriss said she will continue working with local leaders to bring state resources back to the Metro East and make sure communities like East Alton have the support they need to serve and protect their residents.
