You can read it here.
It closes with these words:
Taxpayers deserve the best coverage and crime-fighting expertise their
dollars can buy. Two small police forces can do only so much. Elected officials
will be more inclined to press for change if residents speak up and support a
unified police department.
But in reading the copy I can only find this support:
"need for better coverage, more specialization and economy of scale"
The need for better coverage is not questioned, but how this merger will provide better coverage was questioned at the meeting and while it might be answered in the future wasn't as of Thursday (I was unable to attend on Monday). Of specific concern, is that we are not dealing with two boroughs or two townships, but one of each. The coverage areas are significantly different. If four officers are on duty during a single shift, where will they be located? If it is less than two in the borough, the borough effectively gets less coverage (as there are currently two on).
Similarly, the economy of scale and savings were discussed and 'taken for granted' but based on the plan submitted to the Council on Thursday the Borough would pay the same amount as it had budgeted for the first three years - hence no savings, plus there would be a cap. This wasn't exactly explained then. Further, a formula would then be implemented. The formula would be based on three items, per captia, property, and incidents from the previous year. When asked what the amount would be for each municipality based on the formula, it couldn't be answered. So at best the two municipalities will pay what they currently are with no savings and a possible increase for the next three years and then they may pay more or less.
In theory the merger sounds great, but the devil is in the details and considering these items along with an apparent need to move very fast, it seems the Council made a wise move. Getting more facts would be helpful as would having a chief who could give a thorough assessment of our status and needs from a fresh perspective.
2 comments:
Yes, the story you reference is an editorial. At lehighvalleylive.com, if you click on the "editorials" link at the top left, it brings you here http://www.pennlive.com/editorials/expresstimes/, where that item is listed.
Ross,
A few points I'd like to make:
1) I've done some reading. The cost of regionalizing is hard to estimate until the plan is up and running. (a little late)
2) I like your suggestion that since the boro will be supplying the building that will house the dept it should be considered when the cost for the boro is figured.(if a merger takes place)
3) If coverage is a problem how will regionalizing help? The same # of officers (maybe 1 additional), the same territory. Doesn't sound logical.
4) I think you are on the mark about disgruntled groups emerging. Let's talk to the officers and see.....better yet, if we have confidence in the new chief include him in the discussions, planning, decision making, etc. This will take some time. Who knows, maybe he will think he can make a good police force with what we already have and regionalizing will not be the best for the boro. With his credentials I think he is the one person who will be able to give an educated opinion.
5)I get frustrated being accused, as I was, of being a negative thinker. The positive aspect of this possible merge is relative to the right decisions made by the right people, not the decisions of a few enthused supporters. I think the boro residents and council need to be "sold" on the merger by facts presented after a lengthy and qualified study. Our protection and our tax $ deserve that.
6) Is it not the responsibility of the elected officials of the boro to provide the best protection to it's residents at the best possible cost? Let's not be hasty. If we can't fix our own problems can we expect regionalizing will? Or will we be inheriting the problems of the township as well?
Cindy
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