Vern Jefferson is sworn in as a Toledo Police Officer. PHOTO BY MICHAEL D. DAVIS

TOLEDO – At the Toledo City Council meeting on Monday, Vern Jefferson was sworn in as a Toledo Police Officer. with over 26 years of law enforcement experience, Jefferson was hired on to be the new South Tama School Resource Officer. After reciting the oath with Mayor Sokol, Jefferson was given his new badge by Toledo Police Chief Dan Quigley.

Public Works Director Kendall Jordan reported that the public works department is going around town trimming trees that hang below 15 feet above the street. The department has also taken down 16 ash trees that have died, among other projects. A DMACC student has also contacted Jordan about becoming a part-time intern to learn on the job.

Quigley reported that between July 24 and Aug. 13, they received 218 calls to service. Fifteen arrests were made, seven of which were felonies. The chief reported that RAGBRAI went well, but traffic control was difficult and the chief wanted to thank all officers who helped.

The department’s participation in the Cruise with the Blues went well, and the food was delicious, the chief reports. Squatters have been reported to be occupying as well as using narcotics in a vacant apartment in town. At least one squatter has been arrested so far, and a notice to the landlord will be sent instructing him to lock up the apartment. Also, the new dash cams are being installed in the cruisers over the course of the week.

A work session was set for next Monday to discuss the lots in the Woodlawn housing project.

Chief Quigley gives Vern Jefferson his new badge. PHOTO BY MICHAEL D. DAVIS

The council approved payment of $258,726.07 to Dave Schmitt Construction for Woodlawn.