7/23/1996 - Laserfiche WebLink

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BOOK 98 'P!1'f.fl believed that any further cuts would result in longer response times by Sheriff's deputies, especially in light of the greater demand as a result of the new mall and plaza opening up this fall and winter. Mr. Elmo emphasized that the Sheriff is requesting only 12 more positions. Bill Koolage of Vista Gardens, resident of Indian River County since 1921, felt the money being spent on the property being purchased for the protection of scrub jays was abhorrent. He asked that the Board look to the people to donate money for that purpose rather than cutting the Sheriff's services to the community. Dell Lockwood, P.O. Box 6383, Vero Beach, read into the record the following letter dated 7/23/96: Madam Chairman and Members of the Commission, Thank you for listening to me. I am Dell Lockwood, a resident of the county for 23 years. I was a newspaper editor for more than 25 years in Miami, Key West and Vero Beach. Applying the "tools of the trade" ethical journalists use, including logic and fairness coupled with sound investigation, I began months ago to assess the Sheriff's budget you are now evaluating. I attended the Citizens Police Academy sponsored by the Sheriff's Department from January 17 to April 17 every Wednesday evening. I wish every citizen concerned with community betterment could share that same privilege. Other budget -related meetings provided an even broader base for my request to you as elected officials dedicated to the safety and well being of our community. My request is for you to please support the Sheriff in his efforts to meet the emergency of an inevitable increased crime rate and traffic problems in the SR -60 corridor growth explosion by granting his request for 12 new deputies, their support personnel and equipment to patrol that corridor which stretches from the Indian River Mall to the outlet center beyond I-95. As our community grows, so grows our need for effective law enforcement protection. As Commissioner Bird said regarding the SR -60 corridor, "I can't support (cutting) the whole $961,000. That would be putting our heads in the sand." In conclusion, Mrs. Lockwood stated that she preferred having her taxes raised rather than having a decrease in the services provided by the Sheriff. Warren Holbert, resident of Sebastian and member of the Sheriff's Volunteers, emphasized the need for adequate funding of the Sheriff's Department. 88 JULY 239 1996