Channel 6 News sat down with Upper Yoder Township Supervisor Joe Varanese. He was very eager to talk about this issue saying there's a lot that needs cleared up.

Friday, the Supervisors kept their police officers but didn't answer residents concerns.

According to Varanese, "We never intended to entertain public comment at that meeting. I know the residents were disappointed that they were unable to speak but that was not the right forum and there was certainly not the right attitude in that room to have an informed discussion."

Upper Yoder Township has 24-7 police coverage. But how can they take officers away, blaming budget cuts, then reinstate them? Varanese says they did it by rescheduling officers and reallocating funds. The money for part-time officers and office supplies was cut back.

Varanese says, "In a budget of 1.4 million dollars that's a drop in the bucket. But when you're talking about storm water management programs and others of $100,000, that's the stuff you look at first."

According to Varanese, budget discussions with the police chief were ongoing for a year. A letter from their auditor told township supervisors to make cuts. This budget crunch was discussed at supervisor meetings since February where only up to 5 residents attended.

While the Supervisors look for revenue sources, will your taxes go up?

Varanese says, "At this point, the five Supervisors have to look at taxes. We have to. Now whether or not they're raised, that's a question for debate."

Varanese reminds you these officers weren't the only ones laid off in the Township. The next public Township meeting is Thursday, August 11th.