by Pat Earnest, Stevensville
The Stevensville Police Department has been led by Chief John Boe for the past three years. In that time, our taxes for their services have not increased, even though everything costs more. When Chief Boe came to Stevensville, he began his time with many things outdated that are important, like the vehicles, and other things that needed updating. Not wanting to ask the residents to fund these things has resulted in Chief Boe becoming very creative with fundraisers. He has found that our community loves to support these events when the money goes for a good cause. Bringing the community together to help each other is one quality that makes the oldest town in Montana unique and special and why Chief Boe fits right in.
You may have heard that Chief Boe is getting a newer truck, one that is already equipped with many of the things needed for a reasonable cost. While the town is paying for the truck now, the Police Department is going to pay the town back. They continue to repair and upgrade the other equipment needed. All of this will be done through fundraisers. These events not only help fund our police department, but they partner with other organizations, like the American Legion to help them with the funds that they need.
There are many extra activities that require police presence like the Creamery Picnic, Western Days, Scarecrow Festival, Farmer’s Market and Parade of Lights, just to name the annual ones. It takes many volunteers to support the activities, and we are fortunate to have so many creative people who care about keeping the small-town charm.
The fundraisers include the annual chili cookoff, a scramble golf tournament, and the first annual jail and bail. (Warrant applications due on Sept. 30th)! They are developing T Shirts and coffee cups to raise money to purchase sticker badges and bracelets to give to the kids. They are doing their 4th annual Shop with a Cop where they partner with a community member who continues to make it possible.
Young and old, veterans, families, and our schools, all benefit from their presence in town and response to emergencies. Let’s all help them continue to make Stevensville a safe town to be proud of by supporting their fundraisers.
The next time you see Chief John Boe, Sgt Kenny Franklin and Officer Otis Baugh, say hello and tell them thank you!
Leave a Reply