To the editor:

As a recently retired resident, I have become involved in many various community projects especially those held through our Tiverton Police Department. I have seen firsthand their involvement in reaching out to our citizens. And now it is time for us to reach out to them in support.

Chief Jones has proactively procured a grant from the Department of Justice that would largely fund two additional officers and at the same time be able to create a position for a community outreach officer and one dedicated to the increasing number of mental health issues full time. I feel there is a demanding need for this upgrade in our town.

Recently this proposal was presented to the town council and it was felt more study was necessary. Unfortunately this grant offer is time-sensitive and needs to be acted upon quickly or we lose the federal money. Further discussion and probably a vote, will occur at the next council meeting. I hope they will not look a gift horse in the mouth and not be penny-wise and pound-foolish. Our town is rapidly growing and these officers will be needed anyway. I urge all voters to contact the council and ask them to support this proposal. Feel free to contact the Chief or the Tiverton Police (Sgt. LeDuc) with any questions. Our town needs this and so do our overburdened police!

Steven A. Fisher

Tiverton