Re “‘Grievous mistake’: Residents, council slam Gloria’s cuts to police, parks, arts, libraries” (April 21): Police substations are positioned to reduce wasted commute time to and from patrol “beats.”
This is no small consideration given that there are four shift changes every day of the year.
They also minimize the travel time of assigned divisional detectives.
Substations also provide “first-echelon” vehicle maintenance.
Equally important is that the community enjoys local access to police and the attention of a commander authorized to respond to local concerns.
Closing a substation will cost more money in the long run.
San Diego is one of the safest big cities in the country thanks to SDPD and its substation system.
— Larry Stirling, Bay Ho
Re “Gloria proposes deep cuts to libraries, arts, recreation to close gaping budget deficit” (April 15): This article about Mayor Gloria’s proposed budget included his plan to remove 180 fire rings from San Diego beaches and Mission Bay, saving $135,000 per year. That might cover the yearly pension payment of one mid-level manager.
— John Coburn, Bay Park
