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Mayor Ramon Hayes presented the preliminary 2022 town budget to the council and community two weeks ago, Nov. 4, and all of a sudden there is a surfeit – a lot – of riches and commitment to law enforcement. It is a bit late in the process, with council scheduled to pass the budget Dec. 14, but will the council pause, if not ask for a do over?

First, both departing Councilmember Bill Stokes and Rick Dole, elected to replace him, agree on a strong law enforcement presence and filling the long vacant code enforcement officer position. For over a year, a small group of residents have advocated for more visible law enforcement.

Second, departing Councilmember John Leaver has long championed contracting with the Swinomish Police Department to gain an increased town presence.

Hayes and Town a Administrator Scott Thomas have married these voices by sending to council a budget with increased Skagit County Sheriff’s Office policing through a five year contract providing two First Street foot patrol shifts weekly and deputies' enforcement in town for violations involving dangerous animals, abandoned cars and public camping. That is a good move. Hayes told council Nov. 9 the sheriff’s office is considering a precinct-type system, making La Conner one of the bases.

The first year of the new contract is $364,207, 10% more than in 2021. That makes sense.

But is it necessary to fund and support a code enforcement position at $107,000, $88,000 for staff and benefits and $25,000 for a vehicle? Given Stuart Welch’s inspired electric cart savings suggested at council Nov. 9, does council have all the information it needs? More research and due diligence will determine if a full time code enforcer is essential given the expanded contracted duties being negotiated with the sheriff’s office.

Last year’s law enforcement budget was $335,097 with no code enforcement. The budget presented for law enforcement in 2022 is $486,612, including the vehicle. That is a 45% increase. That becomes the minimum base starting point for 2023.

Three issues come to mind. First, has council assessed the significant change a five year contract with the sheriff’s office brings? Second is the safety and security of residents threatened to an extent requiring a 45% increase in law enforcement funding? And third, where might an extra $107,000 not spent on staff and a vehicle be better invested in the town’s future? In three years that could pay for a subsidized duplex home so young and working class people could live here, as one example of shifting priorities.

The money could staff the community liaison and communications position Councilmember MaryLee Chamberlain has been discussing. It could significantly support our parks or the arts culture of which the community is so proud.

It is late in the budget process. It is exactly the right time to think through options before a decision committing to major long term funding is made.

Yes for investing in a more complex and long term relationship with the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office. Yes for detailed discussion and reconsidering before committing to 2022 code enforcement funding that overlaps with the expanded coverage sheriff’s deputies will provide.