The new Upper Macungie Police Department was allotted no more than $140,000 to purchase uniforms and equipment to outfit its officers by Upper Macungie Supervisors Thursday night.

"We were as judicious as we could be with costs," said Police Chief Edgardo Colon. "But it's nice to have what we need to look professional."

Colon said the funds will be used to purchase everything from uniform pants and shirts, to handcuffs and hats, tp mace and riot gear.

"It will be whatever we need to look professional," Colon said. "We need that."

Supervisor Sam Ashmar said the total outlay of $971,000 to start the department is less than what it took to join the Berks-Lehigh Regional Police Department.

Colon said the management team of the department took occupancy of the top floor of the new police building at 37 Grim Road, while work continues on the first floor and the outside of the building.

Colon said members of the Berks-Lehigh Regional Police Department who are joining the department met with the managment team recently and toured the building.

"They gave us good feedback," Colon said. "We want to continue the programs such as crime watch, the CERT team and NIXLE. We're on board with that. I expect a good relationship between my staff and officers."

Colon noted recent reports of vandalism reported at Lone Lane Park.

"That won't be tolerated. We're going to be active and aggressive," he said.

The new department begins to operate Dec. 31.