Statement from the Town of Granite Quarry on their commitment to public safety.
The Town of Granite Quarry would like to express its sincere appreciation to the Town of Faith for the eighteen-year partnership that allowed our police department to provide protection and service to their community. It has been an honor to support the safety and well-being of Faith's residents, and we are proud of the relationship built between our communities over nearly two decades.
As a community, Granite Quarry takes great pride in the level of fire and police protection we provide to our citizens. Since being elected in 2021, I have made it a top priority to advocate for increased funding for our public safety departments and for all areas of need throughout our community.
We are proud to report that our public safety budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year reflects a 91% increase since 2021, now totaling $2,480,070 ($1,183,449 is Police). This investment is producing meaningful results throughout both of our public safety departments. Our fire department has achieved the prestigious ISO 1 rating, and our police department has continued to excel through professional development and operational advancements. This includes achieving Advanced Law Enforcement Certifications, radar training, deployment of electronic speed signs, engaging in community policing and numerous other improvements that have elevated the department's capabilities and responsiveness.
Our proposed 2025-2026 police budget of $1,183,449 will remain despite the news from the Town of Faith. This represents our council's commitment to excellence and readiness. It includes salary increases, adjustments for increased insurance costs, an expanded part-time staffing budget, increased fuel allocations in anticipation of increased patrol staffing, and critical funding to replace aging equipment that no longer meets safety or operational standards.
With the recent change in leadership in our police department, Chief Taylor has brought forward an
year, enabling our police department to begin hiring and onboarding new officers without delay.
Additionally, following a comprehensive review of our police fleet, including maintenance records and mileage data, we utilized 2024-2025 budget surpluses to purchase two additional vehicles to replace deteriorating units and prepare for expanded staffing, for a total of 4 new vehicles within this budget cycle.
To our police department, fire department, all town departments, and most importantly, the citizens of Granite Quarry: Your Council wants you to know that the needs identified in this year's budget process will continue to be prioritized and maintained as presented. You will have our full support and unwavering dedication as we continue building a stronger, safer, and more resilient #GQSOLID, Granite Quarry.
We again thank the Town of Faith for the trust placed in us since 2007. We wish our neighbors continued success as they navigate forward.