Safety forces hinging on levy

The levy would generate about $2 million per year for the police and fire departments.

STAFF REPORT

BOARDMAN — Days before voters will decide the fate of a 2.2-mill levy police and fire levy, trustees have committed to hiring up to 10 police officers and recalling six laid-off firefighters if the levy passes.

The action came at a special meeting this week.

The five-year levy on Tuesday’s ballot would generate $2,078,924 annually for the police and fire departments.

Early this year, after voters rejected a 4.1-mill general operating levy, trustees laid off 30 full-time employees, including nine firefighters and 12 road department employees.

Additionally, 13 police officers who have either retired or resigned within the last two years haven’t been replaced. Two ranking officers are expected to retire early next year and a patrolman is slated to resign for another job this month, said Chief Patrick Berarducci.

The exact number of police hired depends on the results of contract negotiations between the township and both police bargaining units.

“Based on favorable results of the contracts, we expect to be able to hire 10,” said Trustee Larry Moliterno.

Robyn Gallitto, trustees chairwoman, said the levy would restore services.

“We want there to be no misunderstanding with the voters,” Moliterno said. “The levy passes and both chiefs have the authority to act. I, for one, look forward to beginning the process of rebuilding our safety forces.”

In discussion before the vote, all three trustees agreed that it was important for the public and employees to see immediate action if the levy effort is successful. They also agreed to review township finances once the levy results are certified and the exact revenues are determined. The long-term goal is to hire more police officers and recall additional firefighters.

“We want to build up to 63 police officers as soon as we can and bring back our firefighters so we can have all three stations open,” said Trustee Kathy Miller. “This is our first step in the rebuilding of Boardman safety forces. There is no higher priority for this board or this community.”

Gallitto said the ultimate goal is to meet national standards of 73 police officers and to bring back all laid off firefighters.

”We understand their importance to the community and the urgency to accomplish this goal,” she said.