In a meeting on Tuesday night, the Purcellville town council voted to begin the process of eliminating its town police department. The council approved the measure with a 4–2 vote, with one member absent, Loudoun Now reported.
The motion directed staff to prepare an ordinance that would eliminate the police department. Rather than a Purcellville-specific police force, the town would instead rely on the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office.
This decision would save the town more than $3 million for its budget, the council said.
Councilmember Susan Khalil called the department “a continual drain on our department’s resources.” She noted that the Purcellville Police Department doesn’t have sufficient overnight coverage and that high turnover leads to understaffing.
Mayor Christopher Bertaut posted a letter to residents, arguing that the decision was one “grounded in common sense, fiscal responsibility, and a deep commitment to preserving what makes Purcellville special.” Bertaut pointed out the “redundancy” that taxpayers in Purcellville pay for law enforcement both to the county and the town. Plus, he said a “revolving door” of officers leaving the department for larger agencies causes staffing deficiencies.
“We will continue to be one of the safest towns in Virginia — not in spite of this change, but because of it,” he said.
But the decision has its opponents, as well. Interim police chief Sara Lombraña posted a statement online after the decision, to express “disappointment and disbelief” about the vote.
“Our officers are committed to providing the best service to members of the Purcellville community. We are here to answer the call for help when you dial 911, and we are here to help you in your time of need. We appreciate your continued support, and we pledge to do our very best despite these challenging times,” Lombraña said.
And some residents have expressed anger over the sudden decision, ABC7 News reported. Some even began collecting signatures in an attempt to recall the members of the council who voted yes.
Shortly after the meeting, The Coalition of Loudoun Towns (COLT) suspended Bertaut from its group for “ethically questionable practices,” Loudoun Now reported.
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
