Logan Weiss reports for Columbia-Greene Media the Germantown planning board released a public statement Oct. 18 explaining why the town abolished the police department Aug. 7. “We wrote the letter because the board believes that our neighbors need to know the facts,” Germantown Town Supervisor Robert Beaury said Oct. 25. “So that the neighbors can make an informed decision regarding the vote.” The public votes on reinstating the police department on Nov. 6. The letter details a lack of trained personnel, problems with the police facilities, an incomplete and outdated policy manual, incomplete training, and liability for the town. Most of all, the letter says Germantown can't afford a police department, and will save $30,000 wihtout salaries, insurance costs, and equipment fees. Previously, the police department had two part-time officers who worked about one night per week, and also provided security for the Germantown court. Despite the forthcoming public vote, Germantown recently sold off or donated supplies police department supplies. including firearms, ammunition, stun guns, and the town police car. Read the full story at HudsonValley360.com.