Whiteside County voters on Tuesday made the critical decision to ensure the continued safety and well-being of the community by approving a public safety tax, Whiteside County Sheriff John Booker says.
Booker has released a statement in response to the vote.
“I am truly grateful for the support of our community,” he said. “This vote reflects the deep care our residents have for the safety, and and security of their families, neighborhoods, and the entire county. With the approval of this tax, we can continue to provide the level of public safety and law enforcement services that Whiteside County deserves.”
He said a key element of the tax is its funding for the county’s 911 center. Whiteside County will have a single, unified 911 center that will improve emergency response times, communication and the overall effectiveness of emergency services.
This new consolidated center will ensure first response are equipped with the resources they need to keep the community safe and respond more efficiently in times of need, he said.
“The creation of one central 911 center is a game-changer for Whiteside County,” Booker continued. “It will streamline emergency response efforts and allow us to better coordinate services, improving outcomes for everyone in our community.”
The public safety tax will fund vital improvements in law enforcement resources and enhance the overall safety infrastructure of the county, he said. “I would also like to thank everyone who worked tirelessly to advocate for this measure, and to those who contributed to educating voters on its importance,” Booker said. “This is a testament to what we can accomplish when we work together to make Whiteside County a better place for everyone.”
“I will ensure that every dollar raised through this tax ill be used efficiently and effectively to enhance the safety of our county.”