Dear Editor,
I must emphatically disagree with the opinion of the Dispatch’s
editorial board with regards to the Gilroy Police Department. I
refer to the April 19 editorial that states
”
Gilroy already spends far too high a percentage of its general
fund on public safety.
”
Dear Editor,
I must emphatically disagree with the opinion of the Dispatch’s editorial board with regards to the Gilroy Police Department. I refer to the April 19 editorial that states “Gilroy already spends far too high a percentage of its general fund on public safety.”
We are fortunate to live in a community where public safety is of the highest priority to our leaders. We are also fortunate to have a police department that has the ability to retain exceptionally high-caliber individuals. Even though I cannot provide “a dollar-for-dollar accounting” for these good fortunes, it is my opinion that the editorial staff is wrong.
Public safety should be the most important function of all governments from cities up to and including the federal government. This has been obvious since Sept. 11, 2001 when our nation was attacked. The federal government has since spent billions of dollars in an effort to secure our interests both domestically and overseas. But as with any national efforts, the effect on our daily lives in less overt than the efforts of our local government. I applaud our City Council for making public safety a significant percentage of the general fund. There is absolutely no way to monetarily quantify the peace of mind that security creates.
The Gilroy Police Department is exceptional. Time and again I have read articles about the outstanding men and woman that protect our city. On Sept. 29, 2004, the Dispatch reported that Pat Sullivan, a Gilroy Police officer, received the “Top Gun” award from the Best in the West competition. Assistant Chief Lanny Brown completing the 10-week program at the FBI National Academy was featured on April 8, 2005 in the Dispatch, not to mention the heroism of Captain Scot Smithee in Hawaii that was covered several times beginning in March of 2004.
Officers also distinguish themselves with their teamwork. This was apparent in both the second-place finish at the Best in the West competition and the eighth place finish in the World SWAT Competition for GPD’s Special Operations Group. I prefer that they use their techniques in competition rather than real life, but by practicing in competition I believe they are better equipped to handle real situations. I disagree that “it’s clear we’re out of our league.” Luckily for Gilroy, we have officers that are outstanding and receive accolades regularly for their achievements. The pride, professionalism and service that the police department demonstrates cannot be quantified in terms of dollars.
The Dispatch editorial was askew. Our city council recognizes the priority of public safety and our police department has utilized competition to improve their skills to “provide excellent public safety services in partnership with the community.” I think we are definitely getting a healthy return on our investment in Gilroy’s public safety programs. Priceless is the value I place on the safety of my family and myself. Priceless.
Natalie Schnetzler, Gilroy
