Anyone who works in the police department like emergency dispatchers, forensic technicians, probation and parole officers etc will be left to fight for any open positions (if any) in other city police departments. The unemployment rate could increase and soon we’ll see people getting used to receiving “free” money, getting comfortable with their new lifestyle and refusing to look for jobs. Desert Hot Springs will end up having a worse impression and be known as the “bankrupt town” rather than being known as the “spa city” because of their infamous spas that used to bring in celebrities back in the day. If what the mayor and city council want is to bring in more money so as to not cut any other departments and stores, then why not open up more stores. These stores could easily influence the residents in spending their money there and attract tourists.
It's understandable why the council members believe the only option they have to decrease the amount debt is to get rid of the police department. But, if this is the path they’re deciding to take, it could affect the residents in a negative way rather than help them. There may be other options that they haven't discovered yet but I believe the city council should keep digging until the best option is presented. Their main priority should be to protect the residents and think about what the city’s future will look like after making any