By ALBERT VILLEGAS
Special to the NEWS
The City of San Benito will match 25 percent of a $250,000 grant it received, which will be used for hiring additional police officers, following a decision by the City’s elected leaders.
The action taken by the San Benito City Commissioners was decided upon during their regular meeting on Nov. 4.
It is part of the Fiscal Year 2025 COPS Hiring Grant Program, which includes funding to hire two additional police officers to increase staffing levels, enhance community policing, and improve public safety services, according to an executive summary provided during the commission meeting.
San Benito Police Chief Mario G. Perea said both the city administration and elected officials have done a commendable job and have influenced the City in terms of “growth and progress.”
He added, “With new business and subdivisions emerging, these additional officers will ensure the police department is prepared to provide the highest level of protection and service to our growing community.”
According to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program, 75 percent of funding is approved for salary and fringe benefits for a three-year period, with the City of San Benito responsible for the remaining 25 percent match and for maintaining the police officer positions after the grant period ends.
The project budget period started last month and is expected to last over three years, ending on September 30, 2030.
San Benito City Commissioner Deborah A. Morales commended Chief Perea and his administration for their efforts in securing this grant.
“This and other (fire department) grants are the most I have seen in a long time; keep them coming,” said Morales, who thanked the police chief.
San Benito PD, Capt. Michael Cortez is another senior law enforcement official. There are four sergeants and four lieutenants in the patrol division. The Criminal Investigations Unit comprises of one lieutenant, one sergeant, and five detectives.