Instead, they attempt to scare the public into continuing to pour more tax dollars into the city, or their safety will be compromised.
Safety is the last area where cuts should be made, but it is generally the first place they strike. Purely a psychological play on the sheeple.
Yep. Next the police chief will testify that unless they get more $$ all citizens will be at grave risk. This tactic has worked well for police and fire departments, but I don't think it will work anymore. The truth is that police agencies have been spoiled for years will rich salaries as well as lots of federal grants. For example, most cities have SWAT teams that train a lot but who rarely respond to calls. They are not needed!! The SWAT Team should consist of street officers who are trained and able switch hats in case of a barricaded suspect incident.