West Norriton Police Protest Mass Layoffs: Report

WEST NORRITON, PA - Police in West Norriton are protesting the planned layoff of 30 percent of their force, according to a report.

The last six officers hired by the department, which currently includes 19 officers, would be let go, the township said.

In addition, the property tax rate will be hiked 15 percent in an attempt to eliminate a $1.27 million budget gap, the Times Herald reports.

Firing six officers would reportedly save the township $860,835 next year and $1,025,557 in 2017, when pension savings are included.

The motion will “save” the township, supporters said, but police said the officers they are talking about firing have already bought homes locally, and that the move would be devastating, the report states.