Neighbors helping neighbors is the motto behind the Goodman Police Department.
The department's staff enjoys helping its community. Part-time reserve officer Lorie Howard said the staff is dedicated to assisting Goodman neighbors.
"There's a lot of serve in 'serve and protect,'" she said.
The department, headed by 13-year veteran, Chief Curt Drake, employs full-time officer Joe David, part-time reserve officers Michelle Wilson and Howard.
Drake said the officers consider themselves fortunate to aid their neighbors.
Officers cover everything from traffic citations and warnings for unsightly properties, to diplomatically helping parties reach an agreement and much more in their coverage area, which includes two square miles of the city and almost five miles of state highway near Goodman.
The department builds on its successes and this year has been marked with several successes; namely, the sizable donations from the Bella Vista, Ark., Police Department.
A cage, uniforms, a laptop stand and gun rack were all donated to the Goodman Police Department.
"It's a huge plus," Drake said.
In addition, the city of Goodman purchased tasers for officers. With added equipment, Drake feels his department is making strides to further promote safety.
He also hopes launching a neighborhood watch will benefit the community.
"Getting more citizens involved, to be more eyes and ears out there, will definitely help," he said.
The small department, which derives its operational funding from citizens and sales taxes, relies on neighbors helping neighbors.
The neighborhood watch/citizens academy will be launched soon. Those who are interested in participating may contact the police department.
In the meantime, Drake hopes to keep building a better relationship with other agencies for mutual aid agreements. The department receives help from the Anderson Police Department and the McDonald County Sheriff's Office, he said.
Drake also appreciates dispatchers for the job they perform.
"We appreciate everything they do ... checking on us and getting people to where they need to be."
The tightly-knit small town is making progress with maintaining a welcoming, safe atmosphere for families and people of all ages.
The best part of serving Goodman?
Wilson summed it up best: "The people."
General News on 10/18/2018