Dozens show support to save Miami Twp. police department

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WDTN) - Supporters held signs that say "Save Miami Township Police Department" outside of  Miami Township Trustees meeting Tuesday night.

This, after the local Fraternal Order of Police President Mike Siney said a trustee was talking to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office about taking over police services.

"I think it would be horrible.  It would not be good.  I don't think that people would be as safe.  I don't think they would feel as safe" says Joan Ooten.

Dozens of people packed the meeting to voice their concerns about possibly disbanding the township police department.

Local businesses leaders also offered their support.

"I think what we're all forgetting here is the amount of crime that we don't have.  On an average day we have over 100,000 unique visitors or what we call shoppers.  When we're really busy that number is between 150 and 200,000 people and we just don't have the crime that other cities in the state of Ohio have," explains John Stafford of Stafford Jewelers.

Trustee Mike Nolan says trustees were simply brainstorming in case the May police services levy fails.  If it does, he says half of the township's police department could be laid off.

"I mentioned contracting with the sheriff's office as another available option. This can occur in a manner that would retain all of our officers," comments Nolan.

But, not everyone is backing that levy.

"We cannot afford it anymore.  I can't afford it.  My neighbors cant' afford it," says Bruce Wright.

2 News asked Miami Township Trustee President Deborah Preston if this takeover would be on the table if that May police services levy fails.  She says right now the only focus is its passage.