PORT ANGELES — The Port of Port Angeles will pay $2,000 annually for three years to the city’s downtown resource officer program if the remaining $38,000 in private contributions can be raised.
Port commissioners voted unanimously for the financial support at their Monday meeting.
The commissioners also hope to have Police Chief Tom Riepe make a presentation on the proposal, which would dedicate a full-time police officer to keep an eye on the downtown area.
Port Executive Director Bob McChesney said the proposed downtown resource officer is a good idea to fill the police coverage gap downtown, although the benefits to the Port agency are not well-defined.
A “modest pledge” from the Port is warranted because the agency owns have commercial property downtown, he said, but funding should be based on widespread support from others.
Commissioner John Calhoun said the Port needs to be a good neighbor and participate.
It’s uncertain whether the effort will be successful, but the Port should contribute if it is, Calhoun said.
The city needs a three-year commitment of $40,000 annually for the officer, Riepe told a group of about 50 people meeting last month to hear about the proposal.
After three years, the city might be able to fund the position entirely, he said.
So far, Clallam Transit System has earmarked $10,000, and the Port Angeles Chamber of Commerce has promised $5,000.
Downtown association
The Port Angeles Downtown Association’s board of directors will discuss contributing $5,000 at its Aug. 8 meeting.
Port Commissioner Bill Hannan said police protection is the city’s responsibility, just as the Port has its own responsibilities.
When an upgrade of the Boat Haven was proposed, Hannan said, the city supported the idea without offering any money for it.
Commissioner Leonard Beil said statistics show that most of the police calls downtown are received between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m. — when the officer might not be on the job.
