To the Editor:

As a longtime homeowner and taxpayer in John Day, it is past time for me to share my deep concerns for the safety and well-being of our citizens and law enforcement officers due to the lack of a city police department.

The sheriff’s office and state troopers have filled this void admirably and with my appreciation. However, we cannot continue to expect them to shoulder this extra burden when the fault lies with the city. These outstanding officers are responsible to safeguard the entire county and have responded to the needs of the city without the necessary resources or additional help. This situation is not safe for our officers or the citizens of Grant County.

Over the last few years, our civic leaders have lost sight of the basic infrastructure needed to make this a desirable place to live and raise our families. You — the mayor, city council and interim city manager — now have the opportunity to restore this infrastructure and correct past failures.

Please make it a No. 1 priority to restore the John Day Police Department.

Linda Ladd

John Day