The need for augmenting the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Deputies predates Sept. 11. Studies during the past decade revealed a critical staffing shortage but better staffing was never fully implemented to recommended upgrades. As highlighted by the 100-plus attendees at the Oct. 2 county budget hearing, this issue is one of the top two needs (and concerns) of county residents. Further, Citizens for a Safe Snohomish County revealed in their Nov. 16 report that citizens’ concerns are realistically founded.
Community safety as the essential concern spans human history. One culture more than 2,000 years ago held its official overseeing security vitally responsible for community security failure. In a nation at war, local security must not only be adequate, it must be proactive.
Community security is primary. Without it, all other amenities, including our homes, are at risk. It seems that the county council and executive need a mandate and a responsive spirit. It shouldn’t have to come to a citizens’ initiative just to be safe to live our everyday lives.
Everett
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