AUSTINTOWN Police substation to open in township

The new site will let officers reach out to the community, the chief said.
By IAN HILL
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
AUSTINTOWN -- The township's first police substation is tentatively set to open Monday in the old Wedgewood Medical building at 4350 New Road, near Raccoon Road.
That site, according to Police Chief Gordon Ellis, will give officers easy access to a road network and a tangible presence in the southeast area, one of the fastest-growing and largest areas in Austintown.
"It allows us the opportunity to reach into the community," Ellis said. By doing so, police hope to develop better strategies for addressing the concerns of residents and reducing crime.
The township's main police station is at 92 Ohltown Road.
Possible foot patrols: Officers also may begin foot patrols from the substation. Ellis said residents will be encouraged to stop by to discuss concerns.
Ellis said that at first the substation will only be open when money is available to fund it.
The $300 monthly rent for the building, as well as other costs, will be paid for with money seized from criminals. The police also are seeking private donations.
The department is hoping for a one-year $150,000 state grant to help operate the substation. The grant through the Ohio Department of Criminal Justice Services is renewable.
Ellis applied for the grant in April and expects to be notified in September whether the township will get it.