Clarkstonites have their say on police consolidation at Monday’s public hearing.
The consolidation plan would save almost $190,000, but immediately dissolve Clarkston Police Department.
‘If we maintain the status quo, we go into deficit mode next year, and it will continue to grow,? said City Manager Dennis Ritter. ‘It’s a critical issue ? a problem that must be dealt with immediately.?
Deficits would grow from $77,205 in 2011 to $145,796 in 2012, and $160,596 in 2013, Ritter said.
Police Chief Dale LaCroix, who is against consolidation, said local officers provide faster and more personal service.
‘Sheriff deputies do a good job, but they’re busier ? they have to cover the whole township,? LaCroix said. ‘Hopefully people will show up and say something.?
The department includes two fulltime officers, Chief LaCroix and Officer James Thompson, eight part-time, and eight reserve officers. One or two officers are on patrol at all times, with the entire department on duty during parades and other special events.
The police department budget is about $287,000 this year, out of $816,381 in total revenue. Contracting with Oakland County Sheriff Office through Independence Township would cost $93,000-$98,000.
‘It makes a big difference,? Ritter said.
Based out of Independence Township substation, deputies would continue to provide round-the-clock coverage of the city, he said.
The three-year budget, 2010-2013, would also privatize lawn-cutting services for Depot Park, along White Lake Road from the park to Deer Lake Cemetery, and other city property. This would free the city’s two Department of Public Works employees for other projects, Ritter said.
‘Tree trimming along Main Street is very behind,? Ritter said.
They would also replant flowering trees, paint, fix, and repair city facilities, and patch locally controlled roads.
‘Washington Street and Holcomb Road are in strong need of repair,? Ritter said.
Fire protection and library services will continue to be contracted with Independence Township
Building inspection services are already contracted, and the county performs assessing services, he said.
Further consolidation with the township is not on the table at this time, Ritter said.
‘I’m not interested in presiding over the demise of the City of the Village of Clarkston,? he said. ‘I’m here to ensure its survival and make sure it thrives.?
Clarkston City Council’s three-year budget public hearing is 7 p.m., Monday, March 22, at Independence Township Fire Station 1, 6500 Citation Drive
For more information, call 248-625-1559.