On March 8, the townspeople will be faced with the same question as in 2002 regarding police services where “Yes means No” and “No means Yes.” There are now two significant differences:

1. We have a full-service facility so the startup costs are no longer millions.

2. The state is pricing the Resident Trooper system out of existence, $116,000 in 2011 to $215,000 this year.

The vocal minority would have the townspeople believe the change to an Independent Police Department will cost additional millions and lead to runaway costs. That is simply not true. The vocal minority have filled the social media and local newspapers with negativity and sensationalism to instill financial fear and alarm without divulging any substantial or documented information. The report by the Montville Law Enforcement Feasibility Committee spells it out completely and can be found on the Town of Montville website and at the town clerk’s office.

As a 39-year veteran police officer who has dedicated my entire adult life to our town, I am asking for your support and your vote. Please don’t overturn the ordinance. Vote No to keep the ordinance. A No vote will allow the town to control costs locally and gain improved police services.

Leonard G. Bunnell Sr.

Montville