K-9 Donation Project emblem
Flomaton Police Chief Chance Thompson is reaching out to the Flomaton community seeking donations to purchase and house a no-bite drug dog that won't cost the town a dime if the citizens respond.
Thompson addressed the town council Monday night asking permission for the police department to begin soliciting donations for the purchase of a trained K-9 that can be used to detect illegal drugs and help track missing children, persons or fleeing fugitives.
"The K-9 will be a great tool for the Flomaton Police Department to continue to ensure the safety of our citizens and visitors, with also being a public relations tool for children of our community," Thompson wrote in a letter he posted on the department's Facebook page. "This project is a great investment in our town and community."
Thompson told the council that the Bay Minette Police Department raised enough money to purchase, train and house its K-9 through community support.
Thompson said he already had citizens in Flomaton willing to donate funds for the department to have a dog, but said he needed council approval to move forward.
He said the dog and the training would cost about $6,500 and it will cost about $500 per year for veterinarian bills and food.
"My goal is to not touch a dime of the town's money," Thompson told the council. "My plan is to not put any strain on the town."
Thompson also said he would not move forward with the purchase and training of the dog until the money was raised.
He emphasized several times that it would be a no-bite dog that would be friendly with children, but could be used to sniff out drugs or track a missing person.
Donations can be made by writing checks to the K-9 Project and either mailed to town hall at P.O. Box 623, Flomaton, Ala., 36441 or taken by town hall at 2125 Ringold St.
Thompson said all donations will be received by the town clerk and those who make donations will receive a personal thank you letter from him.
For more information, contact Town Clerk Jamie Wilson at 251-296-2431.
