A grant will enable the Clanton Police Department to hire an information/technology officer for at least two years.

A portion of a $255,000 Rural Development grant in the amount of $83,000 will create the position, which Police Chief Brian Stilwell says should save the department money in other areas.

The Clanton City Council approved the position’s job description Monday night, which entails daily maintenance of the record management software system, as well as new computers in offices and patrol cars.

All 25 patrol cars will soon be outfitted with computer equipment to make the department compliant with the state’s paperless E-Citation and E-Crash programs by January. This project is also being funded by the grant.

“What I’m hoping is during that two-year period, we can show savings in other areas,” Stilwell said.

The chief added that he is confident the new position will prove to make the department more efficient.

After the 24 months are up, the council will then decide whether the services of a technology officer are still necessary. Stilwell also noted that the department might be able to apply for additional funding.

He said there are already applicants for the job with a background in information and technology.

In other business, the council:

Named Council member Jeff Price to the city’s planning commission for fiscal year 2010.

Voted to allow Animal Control Officer Chris Whittle to attend a certification class in Montgomery in November at the cost of $275.

Moved Officer Alvin Winters from part-time to full-time to fill a vacancy left by Rex Cleckler.