Don't lay off police officers

I will admit I know nothing about balancing budgets or the work and people it takes to do so, but other than being a local author, as a former security person of 17 years, who has worked for the superintendent of the State Police, for a NJ governor and head of security for a museum, just to name a few, as well as a former Guardian Angel, and now president of a community watch group, The City Saints, I do believe I know something about crime, and at the moment though some might disagree, crime is on the rise, and it has been foretold that it is only going to get worse. As a resident of Vernon, I disapprove of the laying off of two officers. I believe even one would be a mistake. Vernon needs our policeman and we need more like those we have protecting our town. I for one believe we have one of the best police departments in the state, the finest of men and women that help to keep our town safe. They have great attitudes, great patience, work great together and go far beyond their jobs to help others, which makes for a great team. It would be a mistake on the council’s part to lay off two officers. I believe in our police, all of them, and the need for them. I ask the council to rethink their decision. James John Bianco Vernon