Rep. Lloyd Doggett and Smithville Mayor Mark Bunte announced last week that recent funding through a SECO grant would be used for new technology software upgrades for the laptop computers in Smithville’s police cruisers.

“This will enable the Smithville Police Department to get state-of-the-art technology in police cars and to strengthen the dispatch system, improving response times when citizens need help from the police,” Doggett said. “I know that Mayor Bunte and chief (Rudy) Supak will put these funds to good use to keep families safe and to continue their leadership in making Smithville a place you can be proud to call home.”

Smithville Police Chief Rudy Supak said that Doggett’s help in securing the funding means his department could better protect and serve.

“This helps us fulfill our responsibilities to maintain a safe city in the most effective and efficient way possible,” Supak said. “I greatly appreciate his help so that we have the tools necessary to protect our community.”

Doggett’s request for the federal funding was made directly to a house subcommittee and was made specifically for the Smithville Police Department.

“It means they will have some of the latest technology tools they need to be successful in fulfilling their mission,” Doggett said.

Supak said the $50,000 technology fund would be used to completely upgrade the communications systems that the department uses.

“This will allow laptops in patrol cars to directly link to the dispatch center,” Supak said. “It’s easier for dispatchers and easier for officers to see what’s going on around town.”

Supak expects the funding next summer.

Mayor Mark Bunte, who met with Doggett in Washington in May, said he was grateful for any funding that maintains public safety.

“This is good news for Smithville, our police department and the families who depend on our able officers,” Bunte said.