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Life on South Bass Island is defined by close community ties and shared interests. But when it comes to public safety, our community is currently divided—not by ideology, but by a lack of transparency.
Three years ago, the township trustees decided to end their contract with the Village of Put-in-Bay Police Department. At that time, the township was paying the village approximately $350,000 annually for police services. In place of the local department, the township entered into a contract with the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, which is projected to cost township taxpayers $750,000 this year—more than double the former arrangement. That contract expires this December.
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Now, the Village Council is preparing a proposal to the township trustees in hopes of reviving a shared policing agreement. While we do not yet know the dollar figure or details of that proposal, one thing is clear: island residents deserve a seat at the table.
There are legitimate pros and cons to both options. Some appreciate the county sheriff’s professionalism and broader resources; others wonder if one combined local police department might be more cost effective and cohesive. But regardless of where one stands, this is a decision that affects every household, business and taxpayer on South Bass Island.
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This is not just about law enforcement—it’s about accountability and public trust. That’s why many islanders are calling for open, public meetings before any long-term policing decisions are made. Decisions of this magnitude should not happen behind closed doors.
We ask our township trustees to engage the community in this discussion. Hold public meetings. Share the proposals. Let residents weigh in. After all, this is our home. We deserve to be part of shaping its future.
Editor’s Note: The name of the author has been omitted by request.
The previous piece is published in this month’s Put-in-Bay Gazette. The Gazette has been producing incredible independent Put-in-Bay island news for over 40 years. If you have any interest at all in what is happening on South Bass Island, we urge you strongly to subscribe to the Put-in-Bay Gazette. One-year online subscriptions are only $15, and print subscriptions are available as well. To subscribe please visit the Put-in-Bay Gazette subscription form. This piece of Put-in-Bay journalism has been provided to putinbayohio.com courtesy of the Put-in-Bay Gazette, Put-in-Bay’s only local newspaper. Visit their website putinbay.news for more information and to subscribe!
