WARREN, Ohio - Police and Fire in the city of Warren will be getting some upgrades.

 

This news comes after Warren City Council voted to spend American Rescue Plan dollars and issue bonds to pay for another big ticket item.

 

Warren residents made it clear they support police and fire getting the equipment they need to help keep the community safe.

 

One resident who spoke told council members to pay officers the money and let them do their jobs. He exclaimed that residents need protection.

 

Another resident who spoke first told council they ought to go ahead and give police and fire the money because they may be the next to need their help or protection.

 

Council passing a package of around $2 million to pay for guns, non-lethal weapons, replace police cruisers with over 150,000 miles on them and upgrade archaic technology.

 

"There are bullet proof vests, guns involved there was so much stuff. Most of it is equipment they need to solve crimes, mapping equipment and computer systems and that type of thing," Councilman Mark Forte said.

 

Forte is chair of the police and fire committee.

 

Warren firefighters respond to around 1,600 calls a year. 

 

Warren Fire Chief Ken Nussle emphasizes reliable fire equipment helps increase safety of residents and fire fighters. 

 

"We're working with antiquated equipment that really shouldn't be on the street functioning at fires. Two trucks will be 31 years old in January which is really unheard of," said Chief Nussle.

 

With Wednesday's vote the city will be issuing bonds to pay for that needed fire truck.

 

"As soon as I sign the ordinance tonight we can go out and start the procurement process and go out to bid, and start entering into contracts," said Mayor Doug Franklin.