Maybe the city of Thousand Oaks should have its own police department

Regarding your article "City budgets for big projects, freezes some jobs" (June 21 T.O. Acorn), the Ventura County Sheriff's Department is seeking $2.8 million in additional funding from the board of supervisors, and Sheriff Bob Brooks is threatening to close East Valley Station for the second time if additional funding isn't approved.

Since the city's financial health is strong, as indicative of $14 million-plus approved for capital projects, this is a good time to seriously consider operating its own police force.

In January 2005, it was reported the city of Simi Valley runs its own police department at a cost of about $197 per resident.

This would appear to be a bargain for Thousand Oaks if such action is seriously pursued, because contract services with the county will continue to rise.
Ramaul Rush
Thousand Oaks