Mahoning County should cut elsewhere, not sheriff’s department

Mahoning County should cut elsewhere, not sheriff’s department

As things in Mahoning County start to take a typical turn of events (because it seems we have commissioners who are incompetent and an auditor who has tunnel vision), I would like to make the citizens of our county aware of some things.

Did you know that the employees gave up a day as concessions to help the county budget to avoid layoffs and keep things running? Are you aware that the sheriff’s department and maintenance are the only ones still giving up that day, and all other county employees are back on a 40-hour work week? In addition, the deputies have also taken many other concessions which have significantly reduced their incomes. However, it is only the sheriff’s department that is being affected with layoffs. I haven’t seen a decrease in crime in our county, yet the commissioners want to decrease services to law enforcement and the jail.

Why do the other agencies which do not affect public safety escape any scrutiny when it comes to budgets and layoffs? There is the auditor’s office and the roads department, which requires five employees to work on a pothole (while one drives the truck, two ride along and two actually work). Then there are job and family services who basically hand out money to some who deserve it and others who abuse it. Why keep it open five days a week? I have to work 40-or-more hours a week and when I have business errands to run I am limited to the time I have to do it. So why not make it a part time service. Those who need assistance can find a way to get there when the office is open or they forfeit their benefits. There is also the commissioner’s office, the Children’s Services, etc.

Keep in mind the newly hired deputies are working for barely over minimum wage when you factor in all the other concessions they have taken and even the deputies who have been there for years do not make much. I understand times are tough, but don’t you think public welfare should be considered before making cuts?

I retired even though I could have kept working. I could have double dipped, however, I chose not to so that the younger guys with families could make a living. But, we have some in public office double dipping and the amounts of their combined income could keep several deputies working.

We need to pass the tax in May because it is needed, but we also need leaders who actually care about Mahoning County.

James McKee Sr., Austintown