So where are Delmont Police?

There are some citizens that have asked this question, and I hope to answer that question to the satisfaction of all readers of this blog.

Many citizens have either confused or distorted my position about the Police Budget with a desire to "Get rid of Delmont Police"  There have been many changes in the Environment in the Country, Pennsylvania, Westmoreland County, and our small Borough that requires a shift in mindset as well as exploration for sustainable solutions.  After many months of thinking about issues concerning the Police Budget and acquiring more information about Environmental conditions two points have come to mind why the Police may be receiving some unnecessary criticism from some citizens as well as myself at times. 1)  The environmental changes have forced a shift in policing priorities that makes it appear that they are not responding to routine small town issues that many of us "Old time" Delmont Citizens were use to when the environment wasn't as complex as it is today.  Items such as routine and periodic patrols in all areas of the borough, quick solving of minor vandalism events, or actions that cause minor property damage. I assure you these issues are important to our Police Department and there was a time when the environment allowed them all to be solved quickly.  Complexities have forced a shift.  2)  The benefits of the money spent in the Police Budget are what would be called in corporate America "Soft Benefits".  By soft I mean it is extremely difficult if not impossible to see a dollar for dollar benefit.  In some incidences the benefits are priceless.  Even for Fiscal realist such as myself it is difficult to remember and count soft benefits when analysing Cost vs Benefit.

This new environment has me concerned on many levels.  1)  In the current situation, the Police Budget remains unsustainable.  However, it may be possible to take this economic challenge and change it into a point of economic growth and development for our community.  I look forward to discussing and sharing ideas with the Mayor, fellow Council members and the Chief.  I am currently seeking possible sources of money that will prevent the need of acquiring a Tax Anticipation Loan should that become necessary until permanent sustainable solution is attained.

Many citizens may be shocked that I voted in favor of acquiring two part-time Police Officers when we have five full time.  I am going to share a little Police secret that I hope doesn't get me in trouble.  Before I do, I have a question:  Have you ever thought of the Police and other first responders as "Parents"?  Like parents these individuals have 24/7 responsibilities and sick days are very problematic although they are built into contracts.  The secret is although they keep long hours, often deal with little sleep, are in better shape than the average, sometimes do things that appear superhuman, they are human like us and some have been afflicted by the flu that has been hitting so many so hard.  As far as I know all officers are currently healthy, but there needs to be coverage when illness does strike.  I do have some concerns for the health and safety of our officers in this environment and having the possibility of part time help for them available at this time is prudent.

It concerns me that some people may think that I have "switched sides" and became a victim of the status quo.  Every position I take is based on the information I have and the current environmental conditions.  The only side I am on is the Citizens of Delmont and the ability to provide us with the services we need and expect.  As political leaders our positions must evolve with the conditions.  Our guiding principle must remain the best interest of those we serve.

The environment we are in is dynamic it is important that we make the best of it and attempt to turn the situation around to the benefit of our Community.  Delmont Police are out there and they are working at protecting us in both hard and "soft" ways.  We need to be as supportive as we can and balance any potential harms in other areas while doing this.

Where Are Delmont Police?