The controversy over one of the donations the town received to help purchase equipment for the Sardis Police Department has, unfortunately, overshadowed the efforts of townspeople who have also made generous donations.

I would like to respond to the concerns of Ms. Perry (Donation for Sardis city police gear comes at too high a price, Nov. 19, 2013) about this being a terrible “price to pay.”

Please be assured that in no way are any donations made to the town of Sardis accepted with “strings attached.”

Other donations have been received. The Sardis Neighborhood Watch raised money for the purchase of the vests by holding a bake sale.

Rev. Howard Beam, pastor at Sardis First Baptist Church, obtained donations in the amount of $800 through his ministry at Colonial Hills Baptist Church in Southaven.

This is a difficult time financially for many small communities and we are grateful for any donations received. We are now able to purchase a bullet proof vest for each of our officers. These officers perform a dangerous job and keeping them as safe as possible is our first priority.

Thank you,
Billy L. Russell
Mayor, Town of Sardis