By Patrick Cronin
Hampton Union, Tuesday, October 5, 2004
HAMPTON – The Mounted Patrol unit for the Hampton Police Department almost came to an end Monday night.
Town Manager James Barrington recommended eliminating the patrol unit in the next fiscal year but selectmen voted to keep it.
“I guess the reason why I decided to remove it is from a cost standpoint,” said Barrington. “While it is used for crowd control, it’s really only needed two or three times a year. It’s more for public relations.”
While the Mounted Patrol was saved, selectmen agreed to follow Barrington’s recommendation to deny the creation of three new police positions: two detectives and a patrol officer.
Police Chief Bill Wrenn said the town has had the Mounted Patrol unit for the last 23 years.
“I understand things need to be cut,” said Wrenn. “The unit is not only good for public relations but also helps us in crowd control. I would like you to consider putting it back in.”
The unit is budgeted to cost the town $41,000 in 2005.
Selectman Jim Workman said there is value in a mounted patrol and suggested trying other ways to fund it, either by soliciting funds from the Chamber of Commerce or the Beach Precinct Commissioners.Wrenn said many community organizations already support the mounted patrol unit by donating money to the Friends of the Mounted Patrol. Those funds have been used to purchase horses and equipment.
Selectman Cliff Pratt made the motion to restore the Mounted Patrol.
“There is nothing like a horse to move a crowd,” Pratt said.
Workman seconded the motion and the board unanimously agreed to retain the Mounted Patrol.