Kelly, Sinema tout $1.2M in federal funds for Florence PD

Arizona U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema have announced that they secured almost $126 million in federal investments for Arizona.

The funds are going to state priorities and projects that support local law enforcement, flood control efforts, western rural water, “forever chemicals” removal, military installations, transportation and more, according to a press release.

Of these earmarks, the Florence Police Department received more than $1.2 million to replace the existing, obsolete dispatch communications system with four new dispatch consoles to provide effective communications among public safety personnel and the dispatch center for Florence Police.

“The town of Florence and Florence Police Department express sincere gratitude to Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema and their teams for acknowledging the crucial need to maintain the safety and security of our communities," stated Florence Mayor Tara Walter in a press release. "These recommended funds will be utilized to procure new broadcasting and public safety equipment, enabling the Florence Police Department to communicate effectively with other state law enforcement entities and bolster border security operations. "

The funds were approved as part of the first annual government funding bill for fiscal year 2024.

“After months of work with mayors, law enforcement, and community leaders, I’m proud to announce these important investments in communities across Arizona,” stated Kelly in the release. “From upgrading roads and water infrastructure to giving law enforcement and firefighters the tools they need to keep communities safe, these investments will make sure we remain the best state to live, work and raise a family.”