I learned of this proposed vote late Thursday night after checking for news on the meeting. I was out of town this weekend to attend a family function. I would have attended the joint meeting of the board of selectmen and budget committee had I been made aware of any such recommendation by members of the board of selectmen.

I feel that those opinions are short sighted and not in keeping with the wishes of the citizens of Wiscasset. The citizens want their police department as demonstrated in several previous town votes.

I have not heard any negative comments or concerns regarding the police department from the citizens, businesses, town department heads or other agencies the department works with. Quite to the contrary, I have heard very positive comments about the direction the department is going and the changes that have been made to make that possible.

I strongly disagree with the position some people have that believe eliminating the town’s police department would solve the town’s budget issues. The police department budget that I submitted was fiscally responsible and well thought out.

As far as the new cruiser request goes, it is well overdue. The new vehicle would replace an aging 2008 Ford Crown Victoria with over 122,000 miles.

It should be noted that the previous 2008 Ford was involved in a motor vehicle accident in which it was totaled. I sought out a solution to this problem to save the town the $30,000 mid budget to purchase a new cruiser. Instead, we opted to purchase a 2008 Ford demo car complete with lights and siren for the amount received from the insurance company for the old 2008. Therefore saving the town $30,000 when it needed it most.

I am requesting an all wheel drive Ford Interceptor Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) this coming budget utilizing CIP funds. A large majority of police departments statewide are purchasing this same type vehicle.

I understand the challenging position the board of selectmen and budget committee is put in to present a budget that is fiscally responsible and in keeping with the citizen’s expectations in these difficult economic times. I would simply ask that we as citizens and residents of Wiscasset not simply reduce services for the sake of a reduction in taxes.

In closing I would like to say that the men and women of the Wiscasset Police Department appreciate the continued support of all of its citizens.