Why TABOR? Portland Cops Buying More Toys
"I think these are government people who want more toys, and the toys will cost us money." Read More...
Fri, 11/13/2009 - 1:50am
Posted by Steven Scharf
Portland Press Herald
Grant could fund boat for police in Portland
The department may use Homeland Security money to buy a [$225,000] high-speed boat for emergency response.
By TOM BELL, Staff Writer November 13, 2009
The Portland Police Department may use a Homeland Security grant to buy a Protector like the model above. The Maine Marine Patrol has three of the high-speed boats.
. . .
Steven Scharf, . . ,
"My response is to laugh," he said. "It's ludicrous that the city of Portland should buy a police boat. I think these are government people who want more toys, and the toys will cost us money."
Although the boat might appear to be a free gift from the federal government, there would be long-term costs for maintenance and operation, Scharf said.
I really did laugh this afternoon when Tom told me about this. I had thought about going to the meeting on Tuesday for a different item, but had a later meeting to get to out of town so I skipped it.
You would think after the Fireboat Crew quarters debacles, the public safety folks would have learned. They just do not have a clue.
It also is typical of government, much more expensive to buy than it needs to be.
Join the discussion on AMG's The Public Square
Return to AMG's home page