ATHOL — Athol Police Chief Russell Kleber said Tuesday that a treadmill was purchased by the Athol Police Association to help maintain health and wellness for employees.
The treadmill was purchased from the Athol Area YMCA.
“Matt Talbot, YMCA associate executive director, was able to give a good price for this used piece of equipment,” said Kleber.
Talbot said he ran into the police chief at a Big Cheese 5K meeting at Athol Town Hall.
“We were looking to part ways on a fair amount of equipment,” said Talbot. “He happened to be there, and I mentioned the lease was up on some equipment at the Y and we were trying to get it out to the community for the best possible price, without losing out.”
The Treadmill, a Precor 956i, weighs several hundred pounds. Castine Moving and Storage of Athol moved the treadmill from the YMCA to the police station. Kleber said Castine provided the move at no cost, other than disassembly and reassembly needed, because of the size of the unit, to get it through the door.
“The President’s Task Force on 20th Century Policing” addresses officer wellness and safety.
Kleber said, “It is critical to keep our personnel in good physical condition for the demands of our job.”
The workout facility has been outfitted recently with an elliptical machine and a stationary bike. There are also weights, benches and bars.
“We appreciate the commitment members of our community have for the health and wellness of our police department” said Kleber.