Letter to the Editor: Combining city police and county sheriff's office would be "a fiscally responsible use of taxpayer dollars."

(The following Letter to the Editor has been submitted by former Decorah resident John Bay, who now lives in Iowa City):

"I commend city officials for their forward thinking consideration of combining law enforcement jurisdictions within Winneshiek County.  This concept allows for more uniform standards in training, administration, and enforcement philosophy.  It is also a fiscally responsible use of taxpayer dollars.

Initial implementation of such a concept would always create minor "bumps in the road," but both sheriff's deputies and police officers are professional guardians of community safety, and dedicated to that achievement.

If such a concept in Winneshiek County would become reality, I can think of no other law enforcement official in the State of Iowa more qualified to lead such an agency than Sheriff Dan Marx.  In my 25 years of law enforcement experience in every corner of this country, Sheriff Marx is one of the most professional, intelligent, and caring officers  I have had the honor of knowing."