Gadsden State Community College and the City of Centre will formally sign a Memorandum of Understanding at 9 a.m. Sept. 23 in the front lobby of the Academic Building on the Gadsden State Cherokee campus.
The agreement will strengthen cooperation between the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department and the Centre Police Department. It establishes a framework for the departments to combine personnel, equipment and other available resources when additional public safety support is needed.
The partnership will be especially beneficial during graduations, large-scale events, special activities, emergencies and other situations requiring a coordinated law enforcement presence.
“Today is an exciting step forward for Gadsden State and the City of Centre,” said Chief Jay Freeman of the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department. “Anytime we can combine resources and work together to better serve the community and our college campus community, it is a win for everyone. We are proud to partner with the Centre Police Department and grateful to Mayor Jay Howell, Chief Kirk Blankenship and the City of Centre for their continued support of Gadsden State and our Cherokee Campus.”
Gadsden State President Alan Smith said the agreement reflects the College’s commitment to maintaining safe and welcoming campuses while strengthening relationships with local communities.
“The safety of our students, employees and visitors is always a priority at Gadsden State,” Smith said. “This partnership allows us to build upon the strong relationship we share with the City of Centre and ensures that our agencies are prepared to work together when additional resources are needed. We are grateful for the City’s continued support of Gadsden State and the Cherokee Campus.”
Centre Mayor Jay Howell said the agreement demonstrates the City’s commitment to cooperation and community safety.
“The City of Centre is proud to partner with Gadsden State Community College through this agreement,” Howell said. “Gadsden State is an important part of our community, and this partnership allows us to share resources, improve coordination and better serve the people who live, work, learn and attend events in Centre.”
Centre Police Chief Kirk Blankenship said cooperation among law enforcement agencies is essential to providing effective public safety services.
“Strong partnerships allow law enforcement agencies to respond more effectively and efficiently,” Blankenship said. “The Centre Police Department looks forward to working alongside the Gadsden State Police and Public Safety Department. By planning and working together, we will be better prepared to provide a safe environment during major events and whenever mutual assistance is needed.”
The MOU will strengthen communication and coordination between the two departments while allowing each agency to maintain its own authority, policies and responsibilities. The partnership will support advance planning, resource sharing and coordinated operations when mutually requested and appropriate.
