Belton, County to Vote on Law Enforcement Deal
Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer
Updated, May 20, 10 p.m.: Belton passes measure on first reading
Belton is requesting that the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office take over the city’s law enforcement responsibilities.
Under the agreement, which will be considered on first reading by the City of Belton Council tonight and by Anderson County Council on Tuesday. Approval would require support on two readings by the city and three by county council.
The move would require the Sheriff’s Office to maintain a substation in Belton and “make available approximately” 10 deputies to the city which would include one lieutenant, one sergeant and eight deputies. The actual number of deputies assigned to each shift may vary. This team will perform duties previously covered by the Belton City Police Department.
The city will incur all costs for the substation. Belton will pay $1.2 million annually ($100,000 per month) to Anderson County for costs of the services provided by the Sheriff’s Office.
“As mayor and council, we are committed to providing our citizens with the best possible police department,” said Belton Mayor Eleanor Dorn. “For years, it has been a challenge for most law enforcement agencies to keep a full staff at all times”
Dorn said Belton’s challenge is reflected in many small municipalities. The new plan aims to overcome this challenge.
“We are proud to be a part of innovative thinking and conversations with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office in regards to a partnership that will benefit the citizens of Belton and our officers,” said Dorn. “This type of partnership has proven to be very successful in other communities in other states. As we continue to work on this unprecedented plan, the police department and community will be in capable hands under the leadership of Chief R.J. Brown.”
Brown has served as interim chief in Belton since January 11.
“The way it’s being set up, I think it’s a good thing,” said Anderson County Councilman Greg Elgin who lives in the City of Belton.
“It’s what Belton wants and they think it makes sense for them,” said Elgin. “I don’t think they are going to have any drop in service.”
Elgin said personnel challenges, hiring and retaining officers at salaries often lower than many other law enforcement agencies, have left many small towns looking at similar agreements.
“This is totally different from the Pendleton setup several years ago,” said Elgin. Under that agreement, which Pendleton ended in 2014, sheriff’s deputies had dedicated patrols of the town, but not a permanent, branded presence. Elgin said in Belton, the officers will reflect the City of Belton, with patrol cars and uniforms reflecting they represent Belton and their duties and assignments are in Belton.
Elgin also noted the agreement is “net zero” for Anderson County, since the city is picking up all costs.
“We appreciate all that our first responders do for our city and we encourage them all to do what is best for them and their families,” Dorn added. “They all have demanding jobs and their happiness matters.
The proposed agreement is for five years.