More police coverage for rural areas

St. Joseph County Commissioner Robin Baker said he has been attending township meetings within his district and has been asked about contracting for additional police coverage.

During the commission’s committee of the whole meeting Dec. 13, Baker said township officials within his jurisdiction continue to have discussions about the matter.

Baker said he is being asked if the sheriff’s department would offer a more attractive rate if a cluster of townships pool their resource, as opposed to what it would charge a single township for additional police coverage.

Baker’s district is comprised of Constantine, Mottville, White Pigeon and Sturgis townships.

County administrator Pat Yoder said he brought the issue to the attention of Sheriff Brad Balk and Undersheriff Mark Lillywhite, and the two indicated they would look into the request.

Fabius Township currently has a contract with the sheriff’s department for coverage exclusive to its boundaries.