McCook police mulling how to spend $50,000 state grant

By Steve Metsch

The McCook Police Department is reviewing how to spend a $50,000 grant from the Secretary of State’s office, which the village board approved at its Oct. 17 meeting.

Deputy Police Chief David DeLeshe said several options are under consideration.

“We want to make sure what we’re asking for is compliant with what they’re willing to give us,” he said.

Another drone is being considered to beef up the department’s drone fleet. “We’ve got four certified (drone) operators,” DeLeshe said.

The police department is also considering using the money for an all-terrain vehicle, “to give us another option,” along with new computers, he said.

In other business, the board approved purchasing a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado for $53,000 from Phillips Chevy in Frankfort. The truck is for the water department.

“We were supposed to get it next year, but they sent an email and said we can get it this week,” Carr said.

The same dealership is the source of a 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD Work Truck, which has a $36,475 price tag but also has a very good deal.

Because the village is trading in a 2019 Chevy Tahoe, McCook will be out just $225.24 for the new Chevy Colorado, Mayor Terrance Carr said after the board meeting.

“It’s a good deal and they’re giving us good money on the trade-in,” Carr said. “We don’t need a Tahoe, so we’re getting a pickup truck.”

The board also approved the resignation of police officer William Copp. “Personal reasons,” Carr said.