Copperhill’s City Council recognized the work of its police department during the Oct. 20 meeting, noting the past month has been a challenging time with two events that required immediate response by the department. Kathy Stuart noted that there is a rise in crime during tough economic times and Copperhill is not immune.

On Sept. 24, Sgt. Tyler Gentry responded to a call about a red pickup truck that was recklessly endangering the public on Colonial Avenue. When he arrived at the scene, the driver, Douglas D. Panter, allegedly tried to run over Gentry two times. Gentry, who felt his life was in danger, drew his weapon and had to make a decision whether or not to use deadly force. Panter was charged with DUI, aggravated assault against a police officer, and felony evading.

On Oct. 10, Officer Tresa G. Sticker responded to an armed robbery in progress at the Dollar General on Ocoee Street, arriving within two minutes. She apprehended Billy D. Walker, who ran out of the store with his weapon tucked in his waistband.

The council thanked the officers for a job well done.

Council members also recognized the auxiliary police officers for their work. Stewart said she felt proud and thankful for the officers that have volunteered their time, thanking Donald Jeske, Frederick Rush, Jaime Ledford, Shane Bowman, Jessica Taylor and Drake Heminger. Acting Police Chief Warren Heminger said he is grateful to have such a fine crew and especially thanked Jeske for more than 400 hours of service over the past year. “The services of these fine men and women is greatly appreciated. It gives us another pair of eyes while on patrol and saves the city money. During tough economic times it is welcome to have an auxiliary division,” he said.

Rush is now attending Cleveland State Community Colleges’ Law Enforcement Training Academy and is expected to graduate by year’s end. Heminger visited the academy several weeks ago while assisting in physical fitness and also helped with building clearing, a critical training sessions to enhance officer safety when entering a building. He said he enjoyed assisting in the training and was proud to see one of the city’s officers in the academy.

In other business:

• The council voted to increase the pay for council members from $50/month to $100/month.

• Mayor Herb Hood reported that termites were found on the second floor of city hall, where work is underway on the gym. The area was treated and a new floor had to be put in. The work is expected to be completed in February.

• The council voted to change its bank accounts from BB&T to Appalachian Community Bank because of the fees the city was paying.