City approves police training program
by Brandi Collins, Record News Writer
City council met Thursday and approved a Cadet Training Program for the Cuero Police Department. Police Chief Glenn Mutchler addressed council concerning this issue, as well as a Civilian Ride Along Program for the City of Cuero.
Mutchler confirmed that the Cuero Police Department is currently short two officers.
“We used to average about 60 new cadets a year out of the Victoria Academy. Now we're averaging 15 to 20 a year,” said Mutchler.
The new program will allow the police department to hire applicants that are not already certified peace officers and once those applicants have passed a background check and interviews, the department will provide funding for them to complete training at the academy at Victoria College. Upon completion of the academy, cadets must pass the state test and work for the City of Cuero for at least four years.
As long as cadets pass the state exam, regional grants will reimburse the Cuero Police Department for the training.
Council also approved the implementation of a Civilian Ride Along Program.
“It's a good way to educate the citizens on what we do out there, how we do it, and some of the things we see,” said Mutchler.
All citizens must fill out an application and will receive a background check before allowed to ride along with an officer. There is also a list of rules for citizens and officers to follow while participating in the program.
Council accepted recommendation from the Planning and Zoning Commission to change the zoning ordinance for 107 E. Morgan from residential to commercial. A public hearing will be held during the next regular session on June 5.
Park Superintendent David Danish requested in a letter to council that speed bumps be placed in the area of the park adjacent to the volleyball courts and on the east side of the park clubhouse. Danish stated that due to the high speed of traffic traveling through the park, the structures would help provide a safer environment. Council approved this request and two speed deterrent structures will be placed in the park.
Council appointed Lee Tillman to the Zoning Board of Adjustments and appointed Alton Meyer as Chairman.
Mayor W.L. “Buzz” Edge appointed Councilmember Linda Henderson as Mayor Pro Tem for the remainder of his term.
“I want to thank the public for supporting me for 14 years on the council,” said Edge, “I'd like to thank these people on council for giving their time to serve their community.”
“I've enjoyed it and I certainly wish all of you the best,” added Edge.
Councilmember Bill Matthys was also sworn in to his At-Large position before the meeting began. He was appointed by City Council to fill the position vacated by Tony Allen who filed in the mayoral election.