Residents gathered for Coffee with the Chiefs on Monday, Feb. 23 at City Hall for an open discussion about public safety, training, equipment and the future of services in Eufaula.
The informal meeting provided an opportunity for community members to hear directly from police and fire leadership about ongoing projects, enforcement priorities and ways the public can become more involved.
Fire Chief Corey Cantrell shared his background in firefighting and law enforcement, noting his passion for rescue work and training. Cantrell was hired as the fulltime Fire Chief of the Eufaula Volunteer Fire Department on November 17. He brings years of experience in public safety, including service as a firefighter, rescue team leader, EMT, and earlier in his career, law enforcement.
In addition to his operational experience, Chief Cantrell has spent the last decade working with TECH RESQ, where he has helped train hundreds of first responders in technical rescue skills. His work has included instruction in areas such as water rescue, rope rescue, confined space, and other highrisk rescue operations.
He discussed progress on the new fire station, explaining that the city is currently working with an architectural firm to finalize interior plans and gather cost estimates needed to complete the project.
Cantrell also outlined the department’s collaboration agreements with neighboring volunteer fire departments, including Vivian, Texanna and Canadian. He said those partnerships strengthen response capabilities across the region, particularly in areas with limited hydrant coverage. Water supply challenges in parts of the county were addressed, with officials explaining that water shuttle tactics are often used in rural responses.
Police Chief David Bryning focused on proactive community policing, reducing drug-related crimes, and enhancing water safety. Under his leadership, the department added a fire suppression/ rescue boat, implemented K9 units, and certified officers in DUI enforcement. spoke about traffic enforcement and community safety initiatives.
Bryning discussed how traffic stops play a role in reducing insurance rates and identifying unlicensed drivers, as well as intercepting narcotics. The department averages 20 to 30 narcotics arrests per month through proactive enforcement.
Transparency and professionalism were emphasized throughout the meeting, including the use of body cameras and dash cameras. Residents were encouraged to report suspicious activity and remain active partners in community safety.
Department leaders also highlighted how new efforts have helped secure new equipment, including a rescue boat equipped with sonar technology for water rescues and recoveries. Plans are underway to station the boat at the marina and provide additional water-rescue training for officers this year.
Other upcoming initiatives include sending officers to specialized training schools focused on commercial vehicle interdiction, human trafficking and narcotics enforcement.
Officials said community support and grant funding will continue to play a role in securing equipment such as drones and additional rescue resources without placing extra strain on the city budget.
The Coffee with the Chiefs event allowed residents to ask questions, offer suggestions and learn more about how city leadership is planning for continued growth and improved public safety services.
City officials said they plan to continue hosting similar events to strengthen communication and engagement between city departments and the community.
