The Manteca Police Officers Association — the group that represents frontline law enforcement — has endorsed Gary Singh for mayor.

“The Manteca Police Officers’ Association has endorsed Gary Singh for Mayor in the upcoming November election. Councilman Singh and the MPOA have a good working relationship,” according to MPOA President Ian Osborn. “Public safety and the general well-being of the citizens are our top priority.  We look forward to working with Gary in the upcoming years.”

Singh is seeking the mayor’ s post on Nov. 8 along with incumbent Ben Cantu and newcomer Lei Ann Larson.

Singh outlined what he has worked toward and/or accomplished, with his fellow council members during his past six years in office in regards to enhancing the city’s law enforcement efforts.

*The council has continually supported public safety within the restrictions of the municipal budget by adding 11 sworn officers.

*Two more patrol officers are being added at mid-year this budget cycle once adequate revenue has been confirmed from increases sales and property taxes.

*A new RIMS software for better dispatch and officer communications has been purchased.

*Push for license plate reader cameras are being installed the city.

Singh, in a bid to increase revenue needed to hire nine more police officers beyond normal budget gains to bring the city closer to 1 officer per 1,000 residents as well as man an additional engine crew 24/7 with nine firefighters is advocating asking the voters in 2024 for a 20-year limited ¼ cent public sales tax add on to the existing Measure M public safety tax.

“The PD and I are truly a partnership that I appreciate and will continue to support as public safety is our No. 1 priority for our community,” Singh said.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com