The recent area shootings of seven police officers, four of whom died, attest to the somber reality that our brave public servants protect us at the risk of their own lives on a daily basis. Here in our community, the Gettysburg Police Department deserves much credit for their professionalism and dedication to keeping us safe. From my standpoint as a council member, I am proud to witness first-hand the seasoned leadership of our veteran officers and the solid performance of our talented younger officers. They effectively rise to the challenge of serving and protecting not only our residents, but the approximately one million visitors who come to our famous small town annually.
The unfair demonization and demoralization of police throughout the country in recent years has had negative effects on public safety in communities nationwide. This biased stigma is projected even at our own police department, despite the fact they have steadily improved and have had no lawsuits during the past several years. Truly, our officers have performed competently and admirably even with the unique challenges of tourists, special events, demonstrations, and protests during this tumultuous time. Policies are already in place to hold police accountable and provide the supervision and training to further improve the department. While I respect my colleagues on council, I strongly disagree with their dubious scheme to remove oversight of the police from the mayor. This possibility has already lowered the morale of our officers and I believe will only cause harm, including a possible lawsuit. Some excellent officers may even leave or retire, as others have done in departments across the country.
Unfortunately, there also have been some slander and whisper campaigns directed at our current mayor, Rita Frealing. She is a strong, independent woman with a law degree and experience in state politics. Rita has an excellent working relationship with our department and has their respect. She agrees as I do that oversight of police should stay with the mayor as dictated by the Borough Code. It seems odd that someone would run for mayor in order to strip their authority vested in state law, only to hand it off to other entities. There certainly are negative unintended consequences of trying to fix something that isn’t broken. Our department will always have room to improve, but should be done so under our current system.
I am running for council again with the priority of supporting our police department in order to ensure Gettysburg remains a safe, vibrant small town, welcoming to our residents and visitors alike. Small businesses, economic development, tourism, special events, and the neighborhoods where we live depend on the safety and public trust our police department provides. The next time you see a cop, wave, smile, and say hello. And keep in mind that regardless of your politics or feelings towards them, they still will come to your aid or risk their lives to save yours as they have always done.
Sincerely,
Chris Berger
Gettysburg Council Member