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Very soon Hancock residents will decide if a new millage rate to support the police department is needed in the community. Hancock, like other police departments, has struggled to retain and recruit full time officers. If passed the new police millage would add around 100,000 dollars to the police department’s budget.
“In that time, we’ve had eight part-time officers. And now there are none available in this area. So that’s why there is so much overtime. So we did look at different avenues to increase the budget, but sooner or later we are going to find a balance, where you could see services depleted in other areas. And that’s why we are leaving it up to residents of Hancock and property owners to decide where they want their money spent, with the police force.” – Mary Babcock, Hancock City Manager
Hancock sought other alternatives to help cut down on the necessary over time hours for officers. The hope is that with the additional millage rate, and the book keeping expertise of new Police Chief Tami Sleeman, the department will find a way to operate within budget and improve service in the community.
“Tami Sleeman will be in at the beginning of December. And she will be looking at and working through the budget. That is one of her strengths. And so that will also help to try to come up with solutions, to limit the overtime. And make sure that every dollar that is received for the taxes is spent in an appropriate manner.” – Mary Babcock, Hancock City Manager
If you are interested in learning more about Hancock’s proposed police millage, tune into Copper Country Today this Sunday, with Todd Van Dyke and Mary Babcock. Copper Country Today will also discuss the Hancock Public School Millage with Superintendent Steve Patchin. The deadline to register online to vote has passed. Those still planning to vote on November 8th will have until 8 pm on Election Day to register in person with their municipal clerk.
Listen to Copper Country Today’s October 30th episode here.
