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Home / News / Montgomery County Planning Board Chairman Says Proposed Elimination of the Montgomery County Park Police is a Bad Idea; Excerpts from Hanson April 23 Letter to Council

Montgomery County Planning Board Chairman Says Proposed Elimination of the Montgomery County Park Police is a Bad Idea; Excerpts from Hanson April 23 Letter to Council

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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