Wasco approves donor support

The City Council approved taking current donations of $3,350 from local vendors, donors and Wonderful Company grants and future donations for the Wasco Police Department, and other city departments and projects.

"From time to time, companies and residents generously donate to city operations, and as such, staff will provide a report of donors and request authorization to accept the funds and increase appropriations," City Manager Scott Hurlbert said in a report to the council.

So far, in fiscal year 2023/2024 (July – January), the city has received donations of $2,350 for the Police Department and $1,000 for the Animal Control Department.

"Staff recommends accepting these funds to use for the new Wasco Police Department and animal shelter projects. Staff will provide a quarterly update of future donations as they occur," Hurlbert said.

Also, at the meeting, there was a badge pinning for Police Department dispatchers Jessica Anguiano, Marylynn Ortega, Priscila Ruiz and Ivanna Russell.

"It's a momentous evening," Police Chief Charles Fivecoat said after the meeting, "We are fully staffed for our communications center, and I am very proud that all of our staff has faith in us to come here and help build the Wasco Police Department."

Jessica Anguiano was enthusiastic. "I am extremely excited to join the force because my goal is to help the community and provide them with assistance."

"I'm looking forward to being part of this new department and making a difference."

Ivanna Russell has a master's degree in English from Cal State Fullerton and was previously employed as a dispatcher for a year with the Shafter Police Department.

"It was a good stepping stone for me to move on to other agencies. They gave me all the necessary tools to dispatch."

At the ceremony, she was pinned by her father, who has a law enforcement background.

"He was an officer in Baldwin Park. He inspired me to join law enforcement. It was really special that he pinned me. Seeing me going into law enforcement means a lot to him."