Resident urges Bel Air to fully fund two police officers for 2026–27 budget

Donald Stump (523 E. Broadway) told the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners during public comment on Jan. 20 that staffing the police department is essential to preserving downtown safety and the town’s economic future.

"A well staffed department is not an option. It is essential," Stump said, urging commissioners to fully fund the 2026–27 budget request for two new officers. He cited a June 24, 2025 news report of a large DMT seizure destined for Hartford County and warned that without sufficient staffing the department is placed in a reactive position rather than preventing crime.

Stump said that public safety underpins business investment and residents’ willingness to visit downtown, and that police staffing protects businesses, families and quality of life. The comment was made during the meeting’s public comment segment; commissioners did not take an immediate budget action at the meeting and did not provide a response on the record beyond receiving the comment.

The board's budget process and any formal votes on staffing or budget allocations will follow the town’s established finance and budget calendar.