Circleville City Council members are debating an income tax levy to pay for police and firefighters.
In an emotionally charged city council meeting this week, firefighters and police officers spoke up about their concerns because of staff reductions.
“My wife goes out. She goes for a run. I feel unsafe for her. Sorry, that's disgraceful,” said Circleville firefighter Derek Smith, as he held back tears.
“You are messing with the lives of not only us but the citizens.,” Smith said.
Council members are debating whether or not they should put a half-percent (0.5) income tax levy on the November ballot and let voters decide.
“We've asked the safety forces for years to take care of our citizens, to protect our citizens, to serve them. I look at it as almost, let's give it to the citizens to decide if they are going to return that favor,” said safety director Tony Chamberlain.