Broke Calif. Dept. Considers Outsourcing
Nov. 15--Cash-strapped Millbrae is poised to decide whether to spend $410,000 to rebuild its withered police department or save at least $500,000 a year by hiring the Sheriff's Office to patrol its streets.
After months of debate among community members and officials, the City Council is slated to make a decision Tuesday night on the future of its police force. The decision was delayed when some residents and police opposed turning over policing to Sheriff Greg Munks.
In reaction to one concern raised by an earlier proposal, Munks has beefed up his proposition to include more officers. It would save the city, which has seen several consecutive years of budget cuts, about $500,000 per year.
If Millbrae decides to shore up its current department the city likely would have to lay off up to eight workers from other departments. The city then would spend $410,000 on a full-time police chief as well as more managers and street cops.
Mayor Dan Quigg, who says the Sheriff's Office is the best option for Millbrae, said he expects a decision will be made Tuesday.
The Millbrae City Council meets at 7 p.m. in its chambers at 621 Magnolia Ave.
Copyright 2011 - San Mateo County Times, Calif.