VISALIA, CA – Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Bakersfield) and Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Delano) presented a ceremonial check to the City of McFarland representing the $5,000,000 the legislators secured in the state budget for a new police station in the city.

“McFarland gained recognition through a film portraying a resilient community,” said Senator Melissa Hurtado. “Today, that same spirit thrives as the community unites to establish a police station. Excited to share the news of securing $5 million in the budget with Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains to see that dream become a reality.”

“If we are going to ask police officers to put their lives on the line every day, fighting to make sure they have adequate resources is the least we can do. I am proud to join Sen. Hurtado and the McFarland City Council to celebrate a win-win for the residents and the law enforcement officials of McFarland,” said Dr. Jasmeet Bains.

“The citizens of the City of McFarland will see enhanced police services by the addition of a new police building,” said Brian Knox, Chief of Police for McFarland Police Department. “Receiving these funds from Senator Hurtado and Assemblymember Dr. Bains means the City of McFarland will see increased public safety services that only a modern police department can provide.  The McFarland Police Department will now be able to provide after school programs like the Police Activities League, community outreach programs such as citizen volunteers and crime prevention, community meetings to address specific educational needs pertaining to drug trafficking, gang activity and aiding in better interactions with police officers.  Our community will be further served by the addition of adequate facilities to interview victims of crimes in a safe, confidential environment, and up to date emergency dispatch services.”

“I want to thank our Senator Hurtado and Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains, who have tirelessly worked enhancing the safety and security of our residents,” said McFarland Mayor Saul Ayon. “The new police department will be equipped with modern resources and trained personnel to address the needs of our community. I look forward to the continued collaboration with our elected officials as we work together to make McFarland a safer community. The quality of life is most important for our residents.”

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