On the 21st, a Grants City Council meeting lasted a little over five hours discussing the Grants Police Department and Grants Fire and Rescue reports, approvals, and more.
Police Department
According to Grants Police Chief Maxine Monte, the East Sage arson case is still under investigation and the department is working with the district attorney’s office to determine what happened.
The arsonist who caused the Second Street fire was arrested within 24 hours and has been charged with arson; however, the suspect was released from custody.
The department has two new officers joining them. Officer Corletta Chavez graduated from the Law Enforcement Academy May 13th, having more than seven hundred hours of training, over the course of 16 weeks and 3 days.
The second new member is K9 Ace, a 5year-old Belgium Malinois, trained narcotics dog, specifically detecting meth, cocaine, and heroin. He will be assisting in traffic stops once he is certified with the entire team. However, when he is there for car interviews on the side of the highway, he begins to whine or bark when anyone he is unfamiliar with gets near. “I know most people think, well why did we just get gifted a $20,000 dog [from New Mexico State Police], its [because] he’s loud.” Ace’s handler, Canine Sergeant Anthony Kemp said.
With the new addition to the team, they intend to add an indoor kennel and outdoor run when they start remodeling.
The department currently has fifteen officers and will be recruiting another on June 1st.
“You built an awesome team, chief.” Councilor George Garcia said, after recognizing that Sergeant Kemp served in the military.
Additionally, they were approved to purchase twenty Daniel Defense Law Enforcement rifles. Each rifle is $1,443.59, making the complete purchase $28,871.80 which goes to Pro Force Law Enforcement. This specific rifle is preferred by a lot of law enforcement.
“We’re always reevaluating the equipment that we carry and equipment that we need to utilize when we go out in the field, not only to save lives but also to defend ourself.” Chief Monte informed, explaining that the current weapon they use is heavy, while the one they intend to purchase is lighter so it can be used quicker.
In the past few months, the department has participated in a number of community events such as the health fair at GHS, Mount Taylor career day, attending graduation, doing a DWI presentation with Drivers Ed High School, Torch Run Special Olympics, and several escorts for the end of the school years field trips.
Fire & Rescue
In the month of April, the Fire Department responded to 294 calls, 150 EMS calls, seven brush fire calls, two structure fires (excluding the Alamo Fire), and two vehicle fires.
Councilor Beverly Michael wants a letter of commendation to say thank you and give credit to those involved in the Alamo Fire, also suggesting a mayoral proclamation to recognize them.
Fire Chief Mike Maes said that during the first three minutes of the fire, Grants PD and off duty firefighters did a ton before everyone else showed up. “I want you to know everyone had a hand it, it wasn’t [just] us” “Everyone involved, you would have to name everyone in the whole city… what impressed me the most was [the] after action… you look what went right and what could we do better?.. I was impressed that you did that immediately, while it was still in your mind.” Councilor Garcia said, “We’re very fortunate to have you and your team in our community.”
“I’m very proud to feel like we’re prepared, because of what you guys are doing.” Mayor Erik-Garcia agreed.
The expansion for fire station one is scheduled to begin on July 7th. Ladder one was sent to 411 and was scheduled to return that week, in which it will be fully in service. The new ATV has already been put to use.
The department has received a gear dryer, which will ensure that their gear lasts longer. Before, they would hang their gear in front of a heater, which deteriorated it.
Additionally, they are making their first purchase in two years from their budget for gym equipment. “Gym equipment, exercise, being prepared for what you guys have to do on a daily [basis], it is a must.” Mayor Garcia agreed.
Chief Maes brought to the councils’ attention one of the items that may seem questionable. A sauna will be a new addition, which will be used 12 to 25 hours after an incident. The total cost of the equipment will be $22,481.35.
The fire department also participated in community events such as the GHS bonfire, Mesa View first responder thanks you event, Mount Taylor career fair, CDEC health fair, Mount Taylor color run, and Route 66 mural tour.