Davie voters asked about funding officers at schools

Voters decide whether to increase property tax for school resource officers

DAVIE, Fla. – A straw poll asked Davie voters whether they would be willing to pay more property tax to fund a police officer in every school.

The Davie Police Department pulled officers from six elementary schools in the town for budget reasons.

"They had a police officer that was here for a while. I felt good sending her to school," said Katie James.

Councilwoman Susan Starkey said others parents have asked for the officers to return after the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn.

"Many of them actually came to town council meetings saying we need the (School Resource Officer) SROs, especially after the recent incidents," said Starkey.

It would cost about $1.5 million a year for the officers.

Property Tax Poll

Cynthia Ordonez, a parent, said she would pay a reasonable price for officers in every school.

"Being unemployed right now, I can't afford anymore property taxes, so I voted no," said Alan Wojtowicz.

The issue is not binding.

Davie Mayor Judy Paul said the town council would decide whether to raise the tax levy.

"If we don't have a very large turnout and strong support for something like that, it's going to be a hard sell," she said.

Click here to see the results of the Davie special election.