No Decision Yet About Sagaponack Police Department
On Saturday morning members of the Sagaponack Village Board held a public information meeting regarding the potential creation of the village’s own police department. The discussion was about the potential benefits an independent police department would provide, as opposed to continuing contracting with the Southampton Town Police. Residents raised concerns about unforeseen costs associated with creating a department, in particular supporting its staff.
Backers of the idea believe that this could potentially save a $1 million in taxes over time, but there are still intangible possibilities that can’t necessarily be budgeted for, which creates risk.
Will the cars be low emission vehicles? Is it possible to build Sagaponack Police Department headquarters in the postmodern, cedar-shake architectural style? Will they be able to make a sign that is in keeping with the agrarian aesthetic? Will that sign be wooden? Would it be possible to add silencers to all department firearms so not to disturb the tranquil setting? Could PD uniforms be a little less “police-y?” Are straw hats out of the question?
Clearly, a number of things need ironing out before a decision is made.