Council hears concerns over animal shelter and recycling

LIBERTY — The city council gathered for their regular meeting this past Tuesday, discussing various department financial reports, the dumping of animals and updates to law enforcement equipment.

During public comment, concerns were brought forth by volunteers and workers of the Liberty Animal Shelter about the illegal dumping of animals and understaff ed shelters.

According to Liberty Police Chief Gary Martin, the department has made several arrests with the help of cameras placed by the animal shelter, catching the suspects in the act.

Concerns were also brought about citizens not putting recyclables into the correct bins, which caused a malfunction of the recyclable truck during operation.

Several council members expressed a desire to continue the program but felt the need to shut it down if the problems continued.

The council approved a new three-year contract for AT&T to provide the library with internet services. The library only has to pay 10% of expenses through the E-Rate Grant, while the other 90% will be reimbursed.

The Liberty Police Department is signing a new contract with Utility Associates to provide the department with updated equipment and uniforms.

One of the more exciting upgrades will include the body cameras that law enforcement wears.

“Let’s say the officer is in a struggle or fight,” said Martin, “If he tilts enough, or she enough one direction, it will actually send an alarm through dispatch that there’s one that’s down.”

Liberty’s City Council meets every second Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Liberty City Hall.