West Long Branch-Oceanport Dispatch Merger Complete

The agreement to share police dispatch services between West Long Branch and Oceanport is now complete.

West Long Branch Councilman Christopher Neyhart announced the completion of the merger during Wednesday's brief council meeting.

West Long Branch Police Capt. Lawrence Mihlon has said dispatch services for both boroughs will be handled by the West Long Branch Police Department on Broadway.

Oceanport Mayor Michael Mahon has said the agreement will cut annual dispatch costs by “by nearly 50 percent” for each community."

“Annual increases of 2 percent are included in the agreement with the boroughs projecting a joint savings of $1.3 million over the initial five-year term," Mahon said.

During Wednesday's meeting, West Long Branch Mayor Janet Tucci said she was excited that the shared services agreement is now official.

"It's saving money for both towns," Mayor Tucci said. "Oceanport is now paying us for dispatch services."

The council unanimously approved a resolution to hire a full-time dispatcher who will work at the West Long Branch Police Department.

West Long Branch Police Chief Arthur Cosentino recommended the hiring of Ryan Buck, who was working as part-time dispatcher, for the position.

Buck's will now takeover as the full-time dispatcher and will make an annual salary of $23,000.