Safety volunteers must meet basic qualifications

By AMY SATTERWHITE / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Mayor Royce Davenport said volunteers who want to work as part of a new public safety unit will have to meet minimum qualifications.

As of Monday, those qualifications included:

• The ability to commit as a volunteer;

• Undergoing and passing a background check;

• Having a valid driver’s license;

• Committing four hours per week to unit service for a minimum of one year;

• Working under the McMinnville Police Department’s direction;

• Representing the McMinnville Police Department without having enforcement powers;

• Completing required training sessions and

• Passing a training phase by the public safety unit coordinator, who is expected to be a member of the McMinnville Police Department.

Davenport said volunteers will be covered under the city’s liability policy and will get a uniform and badge. He said being able to meet physical requirements like walking distances are a plus. Interested volunteers may contact Davenport at city hall at 473-1200.