LIVINGSTON COUNTY, Mich. – The Village of Pinckney is reworking its budget and asking residents how they feel about keeping its own police department.
In a survey for residents, a series of questions was asked about the value they place on the village having its own police department.
“If we could reduce the cost of maintaining 24/7 police coverage by contracting with an external agency (e.g. Sheriff’s Office) would you prefer that option over increasing local taxes?” one question asked.
These questions received a strong response from the community, with several attending a town hall meeting on Friday to discuss the topic.
“We have good coverage in this village by the police department being here and being from like minutes from us literally,” resident Emily Trenkle said.
Pinckney Police Chief Jeffrey Garrison is opposed to removing or reducing the police department.
“I have officers that this is their livelihood,” Garrison said.
Garrison said switching to the Sheriff’s office would also reduce response times.
“The fact is (sheriff’s deputies) are where its busier so they’re not around when they’re not in their contract time.”
Village officials say if the police department stays, there may have to be a tax hike.
“More than 50% of our budget goes to the police,” Trustee Jo Self said. “It’s really the strongest area for how we can save more money or we are looking at at least a small tax hike but that’s something we have to look at with the residents… with what they are willing to do in order to keep the police around and at this level that we have them right now.”
