To the editor:

I would like to express my deepest respect and thanks to the Westport Police Department, especially officers Oliver and Shea, for a job well done.

As manager of Westport Camping Grounds, I have experienced my share of difficult situations involving unruly campers. Normally I am able to resolve the problem myself. But recently, a young person with mental health problems threatened to harm herself and other campers. I felt the need to call for professional help. After explaining the situation, these two officers accompanied me to the site and were able to resolve the dilemma by speaking calmly and with care for everyone's welfare.

 Too often in the news, we read the negative stories about rogue officers or police departments lacking discipline. In 43 years running Westport Campgrounds, I have only found professional and caring officers who do their best to resolve potential disasters. I thank these two officers and the entire staff of the Westport Police Department for being there when I needed them.

I am pleased to know that soon we will have the type of building facility these men and women deserve for the difficult work they do. Please continue to support Westport's finest! 

Martin Costa

Manager/owner, Westport Camping Grounds