During the last few months, several major issues have been considered and seen action by the Town Council. One of these is the contract for public safety services by the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO).

The cost of police coverage constitutes a significant portion of the town’s budget. It is critical that we get what we pay for and there have been some serious questions as to whether we are getting our money’s worth. Sheriff Penzone’s upcoming resignation and speculation about the reason for this adds to the matter.

The Town Council just approved a new contract with MCSO but it includes an option to withdraw from the contract with proper notice. So, where do we go from here? Are we stuck with MCSO? What are the alternatives? Should we form our own police department? What are the pros and cons of this option?

All of these questions and more will be the topic at the Thursday, Oct. 26, meeting of Fountain Hills AZ Tea Party starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Fountain Hills Community Center. The guest speaker panel will include several people with knowledge about this issue: Jerry Sheridan, candidate for county sheriff; David Spelich, former town council member and retired Chicago police detective; Gerry Friedel, candidate for mayor; and Larry Meyers, longtime Fountain Hills resident.

As always, all interested parties are welcome to attend, listen and get informed.