No. Brunswick needs full-time police director

I had to read several articles twice before I actually believed the content.

At a time in our nation’s history when we are at war on our own turf, battling terrorism, anthrax, etc., and all people have been put on highest alert, the mayor of North Brunswick has decided to hire a part-time police director.

Our population has increased by more than 10,000 residents in the last decade, we have major road projects crippling our town, and residents are relying on our police more than ever. With four very qualified police captains anxiously awaiting word of the director’s appointment, Mayor Spaulding chose to hire acting Director Moriarty, who will be leaving North Brunswick Jan. 2, 2002, indefinitely, to help protect our national security with the U.S. Coast Guard.

Our mayor is not acting in the best interest of North Brunswick. This is a disgrace and irresponsible on his part. North Brunswick should have a full-time police chief, and a part- time director. The leader of our police department needs to work more than 10 hours a week. This arrangement is not acceptable for two hours, two days, or two weeks, let alone the real possibility he could be gone for more than a year. Hire one of our own and strengthen our police force. This is no time to play political games with our town. Mr. Womack, you claim to be an independent thinker. Please do not support our mayor if he is making decisions that are wrong for our community, simply to look "civil." Our community needs strong leaders, and a strong police force to protect us in this very fragile time. For once, do the right thing.

David Barnhard

North Brunswick