LAKE HELEN, Fla. – On Monday night, the Lake Helen City Commission made the decision to maintain its police department after hearing heartfelt testimonies from both officers and citizens for several hours.

The meeting was convened to discuss whether to dismantle the city’s police force and instead use services from the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, a change that city officials suggested could save upwards of $370,000 every year.

The standing-room-only crowd filled the room with many residents and officers making impassioned pleas to preserve the department.

An officer expressed his support for keeping the local department, saying, “I’ve always worked in small towns. These towns desire the unique service this police department offers. The sheriff’s office cannot replicate that.”

Several officers spoke about their dedication to the community and concerns about losing their careers and pensions.

Another officer emphasized his commitment to the community, stating, “I moved to Lake Helen and dedicated my career here. If the department is disbanded, I lose my pension. At 44, it’s impossible to restart my pension elsewhere.”

Local residents also conveyed personal anecdotes about how the police department supported them during critical times. One resident shared their experience of calling 911 after the untimely death of their son.

“They were at my house,” the resident said. “Same thing with my mother when my mother was sick. They were the first ones there.”

While the majority spoke in favor of keeping the department, some argued the city needs to make tough budget decisions to keep taxes from rising.

“The main concern is addressing our financial constraints,” remarked one resident. “With rising taxes, it’s unsustainable for me to continue paying unless we make budget adjustments.”

The commission ultimately voted 3-2 to retain the department. Mayor Vernon Burton said the topic could be revisited next year, but for now, no further discussions are planned.

“They were concerned citizens that made their voices heard,” Burton said after the meeting.