Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck is warning county residents of the negative effects a potential budget cut could have on public safety.
In a letter to the public, Schenck recognized the financial stress the county government is under and that budget cuts are likely to avoid significant tax increases; however, he believes that public safety should be at the top of the legislature’s priority.
“Making cuts to our public safety budgets should be a last resort, especially during a time when we are facing more challenges than ever,” Schenck wrote.
Schenck claims the legislature is poised to cut the law enforcement budget, preventing him from filling “critical budgeted positions within our Sheriff’s Office.”
He goes on to write that the positions are needed to maintain appropriate road patrol coverage, respond to calls as quickly as possible, and maintain the jail while work continues on new initiatives to prepare incarcerated individuals for reentry into society and reduce recidivism.
“These positions are critical and if they and future positions continue to go unsupported by a majority of county legislators, the impact on public safety in your community WILL be negative.”
Schenck encourages the public to discuss this issue with their elected county legislator.
If anyone has questions for the sheriff regarding this matter, he can be reached at 315-253-4337 or [email protected].
You can read the full letter below.
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