LAKEPORT, Calif. – The Lakeport Police Department has received some much-needed – and, according to the agency, much-appreciated – grant funding from local Indian tribes.

The department received more than $17,000 from the Robinson Rancheria Pomo Indians and Big Valley Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians to offset casino impacts as part of a recent allocation from the Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund.

The process not only netted the police department monies, but also further strengthened continuing partnerships, according to a Thursday report from Sgt. Dale Stoebe.

Statistical information showed that during the last calendar year the Lakeport Police Department, through mutual aid agreement with the Lake County Sheriffs Office, had responded to and assisted with a number of law enforcement calls for service at both locations.

That, coupled with services provided to casino employees and their children who reside in Lakeport, justified the tribes’ decisions to grant the funds, $10,000 and $7,242.75, respectively, Stoebe reported.

“The tribes have been giving back to the community in many ways for many years, including grant funds,” said Stoebe. “These monies have always been utilized by law enforcement fully to enhance the safety of that community.”

Stoebe added, “In these strained and uncertain financial times, those monies are just needed and appreciated that much more. The most important outcome of the whole process was the further strengthening of our already existing partnerships. Together we will see them into a safer future.”

The received grant monies will be utilized by the Lakeport Police Department on police vehicle maintenance costs and to offset police officers’ mutual aid service times, Stoebe said.