Kristen McDonald Rivet

FLUSHING, MI – More than $200,000 in federal funding is on its way to the Flushing Police Department, U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet announced

Funds will be used to purchase two patrol vehicles, as well as safety equipment, radios and other gear, Flushing Police Chief Steve Colosky said.

McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City) announced the federal funding before touring the Flushing Public Works Department facilities on Thursday, Jan. 29.

The lump sum payment will also facilitate the department’s school resource officer program, which has one full time officer at each of Flushing’s public school buildings.

The funding was secured through the fiscal year 2026 Community Project Funding Initiative.

“We can all agree that every day our local police officers are risking their lives to keep us safe,” McDonald Rivet said. “And we need to do everything we can do to make sure that they are safe.”

An exact grant amount has not yet been finalized, but Colosky expects to receive the funds in the upcoming year.

McDonald Rivet and Colosky were joined at the news conference by Flushing City Manager Michelle King, Mayor Pro Tem Dane Miller and state Rep. Jasper Martus (D-Flushing).

Colosky said patrol vehicles can cost approximately $53,000, with an additional $18,000 to outfit it for police work.

“We operate under a general fund, so this greatly helps us,” Colosky said, thanking McDonald Rivet for advocating on the department’s behalf. “... For every piece of equipment purchased, there is a family, neighbor, and community who will feel more secure.

“This allows the department to upgrade equipment without placing any financial strain on our citizens.”