THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, May 7, 1995 TAG: 9505050215
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 06 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 47 lines
Police can blame selves for problem with council
An article by the president of the Police Benevolent Association (``What city police require and citizens support: a 4.5% raise and take-home cars,'' Kaleidoscope, April 30), shows that they are disappointed with the actions of City Council in not granting them a bigger raise and other benefits.
Certainly, the police are on the firing line today and they should be paid in accordance with the benefits given other city employees at the very least. One of their requests I tend to oppose is that of bringing their cruisers home. Reports from other cities indicate that this is not a crime deterrent. To me it represents borrowing city property for personal use. This may not be a good area to get into. If higher-ups are doing it, it's unfortunate. Otherwise, though, the police have a case.
If the police are unhappy with council's action, they might think back on their opposition to those of us who tried to change the method of electing council. They were among the groups who were afraid that we would upset the applecart with our balanced district voting plan. So the same old group remains on council indefinitely.
The issue will come before the voters again. Let us hope this time the police will observe their ``right to remain silent.''
Edward F. Bacon
Lynnhaven Colony Greed, Gaston water and the cynicism of youth
After 13 years' waiting for approval to tap Lake Gaston water, the end seems near. The ostensible reason for the delay has always been environmental concerns. Now it seems that for 35 million gallons of water a day and other inducements, North Carolina will stop its objection to the Lake Gaston pipeline.
No wonder the youth of today are so cynical of authority. When greed is the motivating factor instead of integrity, what else can they be? No, the Lake Gaston water will not taste so sweet.
William F. Hay Sr.
Fairfield Boulevard by CNB