Here is a cliff notes version of tonight's debate.... I just posted this on my Facebook page.
At tonight's City Council meeting, we voted on filling out the paperwork to acquire one of these from the Department of Homeland Security. The resolution passed 3-2. I would like to thank Jim S. for standing with me in opposition to this resolution.
There is no logical or practical reason for the City to own a military vehicle of this caliber.
In the description of the vehicle it states that the vehicles are "designed from the ground up to reduce casualties and increase survivability for personnel subjected to mine explosions, Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) detonations, and Small Arms Fire." I asked when the last time a city police officer was hit with a mine explosion or an IED blast or even when the last time a police officer in town was involved in a small arms conflict. The answer was a long time, if ever.
I then asked if our city was currently involved in a war that would require the acquisition of what is basically a military tank on wheels and the answer to that was no. I stated that I walk around town because of my job and I know for a fact that city is NOT a battleground and that we are a peaceful town.
I stated that vehicles like this belong on the streets of Fallujah and not in the streets of our city.
I asked if the police are anticipating a conflict that would require one of these and one councilor said we can't predict the future and there may be a need in the future.
I made the point that the cost of the upkeep is extremely high and the taxpayers shouldn't have to pay for it.
I even asked for ONE example of our police department even needing this and there wasn't one. The only reason given to me for why we should get one is because the Department of Homeland Security is giving them away for free and in two years we could sell it for a profit. This is ridiculous.
- ML
