The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Local News

October 10, 2012

Councilman wants Beckley police participation in program

By Wendy Holdren Register-Herald Reporter

During the Tuesday session of Beckley Common Council, Councilman Ron Booker again suggested the need for the Beckley Police Department to participate in an law enforcement accreditation program.

“Every organization must have change and development,” Booker said. “It improves public trust.”

Booker noted public reaction to the recent charges against the former BPD evidence room technician who is being charged with obtaining narcotics by fraud.

“We must be proactive instead of reactive,” Booker added.

Mayor Emmett Pugh stated that Booker has been diligently researching the issue of law enforcement accreditation and has been speaking with Chief Tim Deems. Pugh said the issue will be put on an upcoming council agenda.

Two resolutions were approved for agreements between D.H. Cook and E.D. Capehart to administer and manage a grant from the Governor’s Highway Safety Program.

Cook said he would be taking over the duties of retired Cpt. J.D. Meadows, who passed away in February, and Capehart would be taking over Cook’s former duties.

Councilman Cedric Robertson asked Recorder-Treasurer Gary Sutphin if there would be a raise for city employees. Sutphin said he believes they should wait until January to look at the revenue then, but a Christmas bonus was a possibility.

“This is not just because of MSU, but because of the slowing of the economy,” Sutphin said.

Councilman Chris Hall expressed his appreciation for all the departments in the city for their hard work Saturday during the half marathon, Rocket Boys Festival and Chili Night.

Pugh also added a thanks to Scott Hill, Rocket Boys Festival Director, for his effort in putting the event together.

Kevin Taylor, City of Beckley Director of Emergency Services, announced the initial training class dates for a community emergency response team (CERT).

Training will be held for anyone interested Nov. 5, 9, 12 and 13. Participants must attend all four training days.

Taylor said this CERT team will serve the entire county, but he would eventually like to have a CERT team in each ward in the city of Beckley.

For more information about becoming part of the team, contact Kevin Taylor at 304-256-0034.

Roslyn Artis spoke during public comments on behalf of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. She, along with several other sorority members, came to let the public know that they want to be involved in the community.

Delta Sigma Theta is a group of predominantly African-American females and Artis said their organization hopes to be of service to the community.

Pugh announced that Halloween will be held Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

— E-mail: wholdren@register-herald.com

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