By By Lisa Tindell
news editor
Some small towns have felt such a severe pinch from the economy that they have been forced to lay off workers, while others have no resources to put needed employees to work.
East Brewton’s police department may have found a temporary solution to a lack of funds by putting voluntary auxiliary police personnel on the streets.
Police Chief Kenny Brazile said the extra personnel provide more safety for the city’s businesses and residential.
East Brewton Mayor Terry Clark said the auxiliary workers would be a direct benefit to the residents of the city.
Although East Brewton currently employs five officers, including the chief, on the police force, the addition of five auxiliary officers will make the department more visible in the community, Brazile said.
Officers currently on the auxiliary roster for the department include Keith Hawkes, David Cole, Chuck Wiggins, Antonio Smith and Frankie Godwin.
Volunteer Chuck Wiggins said he has enjoyed working with the department so far and hopes to continue his work.
Brazile said the officers have already been a benefit to the department and to the community over recent weeks.
Brazile said the officers have also been willing to work in times that were especially difficult for the department.
Brazile said the unpaid auxiliary officers currently work neighborhood patrols, do security checks at area businesses as well as any duties requested through the department. All volunteer work by the officers has been responded to positively by the public, he said.
Brazile said the number of auxiliary officers may grow in the coming weeks and months.
Brazile said as the auxiliary force grows, so does the strength of the entire department.