Is Springfield’s four-person force about to become a three-officer troop? At a recent meeting, township supervisors declined to say whether they would replace Officer Ronald Jacoby, who plans to retire at the end of the year.
The surprising admission came after an inquiry from resident Loren Hulber, who said a well-staffed police force was essential in maintaining the township’s quality of life at a time of increasing crime rates in the county.
At four officers, the township is below the recommended state levels. A Department of Community and Economic Development report last year recommended the township hire an additional full-time police officer or two part-time officers to bring it in line with other area townships’ police-to-resident ratios.
Supervisor Jim Hopkins acknowledged Springfield had been understaffed at many levels for many years, and said the issue would be discussed at an upcoming budget meeting.
“We are looking to sustain everything we have; we’re just trying to figure out how make these dollars stretch,” Hopkins said.
“Is that a confirmation that it’s the intention to replace Officer Jacoby?” Hulber inquired.
“It’s in our budget at this point in time, but that takes a majority vote,” Hopkins said.
“I don’t think I got an answer there, with all due respect,” Hulber replied.
“It’s a five-member board that has to answer that question. The intent is there, but the money is what rules,” Hopkins countered.
The township is currently taxing to the max and cannot, under law, levy any new taxes. It has been steadily draining its remaining COVID relief funds to pay for work on the township building and other expenses, increasing the likelihood of a deficit when that runs out.
Wading into the debate, Chairman Tony Matzura said Hulber was not going to push a discussion or any opinion from this board until that date and time comes.
“Trust that we are going to do the best when the time comes,” he said.
The DCED report looked at four second-class townships in Bucks and Montgomery counties with similar populations to the township. Lower Frederick Township, the closest in population to Springfield’s approximately 5,100 residents, currently has five officers. Bedminster, with a population of 6,574, has seven. The township’s last police hire was Officer Arnold Melton in 2015.
Earlier, board members unanimously voted to prohibit trucks in excess of 22 feet in length on Drifting Drive and Springtown Hill Road because of insufficient shoulders, inadequate drainage and notoriously sharp curves. Exceptions will be made for local deliveries.
They also added township treasurer to Manager Rich Pursell’s roster of titles, awarding him a 10% salary increase, or $9,200 annually. Supervisor Pete Kade said the move would save the township approximately $38,000 per year plus benefits. Pursell also serves as public works director.
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