The Town of Highlands Police Department could soon be closing its doors for good in an effort to save money, leaving many residents worried about their safety.The proposal would mean the Village of Highlands Falls police would handle calls. However, many feel response time to an emergency could be affected if the town police department is eliminated. Town of Highlands Supervisor Inga Quaintance says she understands those fears. ?They're very concerned that the service would be less than what they are getting now,? says Quaintance. ?We assured them last night that that would not be the case.?

Quaintance contends safety will not be affected and could even be improved if the Village of Highland Falls department takes over. She also sees an opportunity for savings for the town, with the escalating cost of funding a police department.

The question remains if the town board will feel the same way. Officer Bill Mindell, president of the PBA for the Town of Highlands Police Department, says he hopes residents see the value in keeping the department. However, he says it is ultimately up to the voters to decide.