SILVER SPRING, MD – In his latest correspondence describing the county’s fiscal situation, the County Executive recommended the elimination of the Montgomery County Division of the Park Police of the Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission, suggesting that Park Police functions could and should be performed by the Montgomery County Police Department.
This is proposed ostensibly to save $2 million in FY 2011. I was asked to support this action.
I cannot in good conscience do so, and I urge that it be resisted. Since I shall soon leave the Commission, I have no personal stake in the outcome, but think it so contrary to the public interest that I cannot remain silent.
It is bad public policy and bad management. It imperils the safety of park users, especially in down-county parks. It will not save money. Rather, it will ultimately increase costs.
Read full letter online at www.montgomeryplanningboard.org, click on the first link under “Learn more.”
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