The Park Rapids Enterprise reports that the city councils in Akeley and Nevis recently decided to reduce their public safety services. In Akeley, the police chief’s hours will be cut down to 20 hours per week, and all part-time officers will be eliminated, resulting in a $40,000 savings. In Nevis, the city council voted to disband the police department, which was staffed by a single constable. This reduction amounts to an $18,000 savings for the city. The city will contract with the county to provide future public safety.
Cities across the state are making difficult budget choices as a result of steep state aid cuts. As the mayor of Akeley noted, the city can only afford to fund the most “serious necessities,” such as water, sewers, and roads. Cutting down to the bone has serious ramifications for the viability of greater Minnesota. Strong, affordable services are imperative to attracting new businesses, jobs, and families to greater Minnesota communities, and right now, cities can’t afford to invest in these services. The state must recommit to the LGA program in order to ensure the future economic health of our communities.