SAUGATUCK, Mich. (WOOD) — This week, for the first time in 20 years, the streets of Saugatuck will be patrolled by Allegan County sheriff's deputies.
Saugatuck decided in February to withdraw from the joint police department it had long partnered with the neighboring city of Douglas to run. The move was made to save money.
On Monday, the Saugatuck city manager said he didn't expect a noticeable decrease in safety.
"It's probably not a safe thing to say we're increasing or decreasing," City Manager Kirk Harrier told 24 Hour News 8. "We had coverage before and we have coverage now."
Sheriff's deputies took over law enforcement service Saturday night, making this their first full week on patrol.