Downey : Inquiry Into Use of Money From Utility Tax for Police
The Downey City Council has scheduled a study session to determine whether the money from a 3% utility users tax imposed in 1990 is being spent on hiring more police and related expenses as planned.
Several months ago, council members Robert G. Cormack and Barbara J. Hayden suggested rebates to residents if the more than $2.5 million in utility taxes had not been spent entirely on the police buildup. When council members approved the tax, they said it was to pay for 27 more police officers and related expenses, but the Police Department has never reached full strength. Currently, there are 17 vacancies.
The City Council on Tuesday night directed staff to determine how much of the $2.9 million in utility taxes went toward a buildup.
The study session will take place at 4:30 p.m. Monday in the council chamber at City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Ave.
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