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Crime & Safety

Long Branch Police Confident Despite Staff Cuts

Public Safety Director Muolo says patrol coverage won't suffer in 2011 but looks ahead to 2012

Long Branch Public Safety Director Alphonse Muolo is concerned looking ahead to 2012, as budget tightening impacts police force levels this year.

After the city announced , Patch spoke to Muolo about the impacts the cuts would have on the department.

Muolo said his immediate concern is with the cost-driven loss of on-duty police and budget cuts that eliminate the ability to fill other planned openings. The police department cuts include a dispatcher slot, a special officer and three others.

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“We are disappointed with the required layoff,” Muolo said. “The minimum manpower requirements will be met on patrol assignments. While we are confident we can provide proper coverage this year, the real question is how we (the police) will fare next year.” 

Of the 37 jobs that have been cut, 21 were current employees. The 16 remaining positions were cut through attrition and retirements. Long Branch Business Administrator Howard Woolley said there are cuts in every department including public works and the fire department.

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An assumption in the city and in other nearby municipalities is that ongoing state budget woes are likely to impact local government budgets in 2012, as well.

Earlier in the day Mayor Adam Schneider reported he is equally concerned about the potential impact of state aid constraints heading into 2012.

He said that this year the city will be able to absorb the squeeze. Next year there will be less flexibility to do likewise, Schneider said.

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