map_mn_125Akeley is the latest Minnesota city to consider going without its own police in response to declining local-government aid (LGA) and, in some cases, population.

Akeley would join a growing club that now includes Remer, Longville and Hackensack, among others. Hoyt Lakes and Aurora might combine their police forces. Wyoming is downsizing its force by switching to uninsured part-timers.

The move would leave public safety for Akeley residents in the hands of an already-stretched county, the Detroit Lakes Tribune reports:

Hubbard County Sheriff Frank Homer, contacted after the meeting, said per statute, the sheriff’s department must provide coverage if the department disbands.

But no personnel would be added in the sheriff’s office, he said, noting the department covers roughly 1,000 square miles.

“We’re stretched to the limit now,” Homer said. “With another municipality, we’d be really stretched. We’d do it. We’re obligated. But you may not see the same response time.”

Akeley’s police chief was understandably miffed:

“How long has this been in discussion?” police chief Eric Klein asked.

“We’ve talked about this,” Cliff Johnson told him. After the meeting, Johnson said the subject has been proposed on several occasions prior to this; Klein is aware the city is considering the measure, he said.

“How long are we talking?” Klein asked, ostensibly questioning when the position would be terminated. “This affects my wife and four kids. I’ve cut everything. If I could turn back the clock, I would,” he said, referring to relocating to Akeley.

[Via Don Reeder]