[ back ]
Franklin Twp. police chief wants more officers
(by Kathleen Radcliff, staff writer - September 19, 2012)
Hollywood Casino opens its doors Oct. 8 and local law enforcement wants additional manpower to patrol the area.
“At 12 noon, the casino will be open for gaming with a capacity of 8,500 gaming guests,” said Jim Timko, Franklin Township police chief. “We expect a very busy opening day.”
The Columbus Division of Police is responsible for casino grounds, while the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and Franklin Township Police will patrol areas west and north of the casino, Timko said.
According to Timko, county officials inquired how the township would staff the casino area on opening day and beyond.
“We can’t do it all,” Timko said. “I’m asking for two more officers, with their salaries to be paid from the general fund instead of from the property taxes.”
“There is a lot to be played out on that issue,” Trustee chair Timothy Guyton said.
Township officials said a decision to hire two more officers depends on how the sheriff’s office approaches its staffing.
“If (Franklin County sheriff Zach Scott) goes lighter in the jail and heavier on the street, then we may be OK,” Guyton said. “If he goes heavier in the jail and lighter on the street, then it’s a different discussion.”
Trustees held their decision for further review.
Township changes electric provider
The trustees voted unanimously to approve a contract with Public Power to provide discounted electrical service.
Richard Howard, Franklin Township fire chief, presented the proposal at the Sept. 12 meeting.
“Things like this come across my desk all the time,” Howard said. “But, this is the first I’ve seen that we can save some serious money.”
The savings range from 19 percent to 27.4 percent in savings on generation and transmission services, Howard said.
According to Howard, the township could save approximately $2,600 on a $7,700 bill.
While AEP holds a rate of 10 cents per kilowatt hour, Public Power offers a two-year fixed rate of 0.6675 cents per kilowatt hour, he said.
“We will save approximately $16,000 over two years,” said Lisa Morris, Franklin Township fiscal officer.
[ back ]
