In an emotional part of Bath Borough Council’s May meeting, council and Mayor Fiorella Reginelli-Mirabito expressed agony over what could be the most important decision for the borough in decades - a possible change in policing.

In attendance were Colonial Regional Police (CRPD) Chief Roy Seiple and CRPD Association leader Matt Antonucci, a police officer for CRPD.

Bath Fire Chief Emilio DeNisi kicked off the discussion, asking, “Is there anything new? New for the residents?”

Council President Mark Saginario reported, “[Chief Seiple] gave a good presentation to the police advisory board.”

The police advisory board, a diverse group of Bath residents, was assembled by council both to gather information about any potential policing change and to include the community in any decision.

DeNisi was candid in his view.

“I do not want to see the (Pennsylvania) State Police (PSP) cover Bath,” he said. “I want this to go in the right direction.”

Saginario responded, “This situation bothers all of us on council. The decision is a huge responsibility.”

Several council members and Reginelli-Mirabito said they believe about half of borough residents want the police relationship with CRPD terminated, while the other half want to remain with CRPD.

In her remarks, Reginelli-Mirabito said, “I have been a cheerleader for CRPD since day one. They are top notch. They are always there when I need them. I, for one, do not want to get rid of CRPD. But, it is not up to me. The council will decide. I do not prefer PSP.

“This decision bothers me,” she said. “I have lost sleep about this. But, I have to look forward. We cannot keep raising taxes like this.”

Borough Manager Brad Flynn relayed there have been only several tax increases in 15 years in Bath, suggesting this is partially the reason for the current financial predicament. Council has examined every line item in the budget to try to save tax dollars.

After the meeting, Seiple said his officers hold a relationship with Bath residents that takes years to develop.

“We get a Bath call, and we can defuse a situation quickly because we know the people,” he said. “That takes years to get to.”

Antonucci added, “The association’s concern is that the decision is made for the right reasons. There are mixed signals that some of the problems are not financial. The borough has had longtime problems with CRPD leadership. These other things can result in good people losing their jobs.”

“We have examined and re-examined this budget to get the tax increase to the lowest number possible,” Saginario said. “This is only a financial decision. We have to look at all the angles in this decision. I have no personal problems with any of the officers or the chief. The decision is financial.

“CRPD is a top-notch department. This has nothing to do with their performance,” he added. “There are too many rumors floating around.”

A town hall meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. May 20 in the Bath Fire Company social hall to update the community on the direction council plans to take. Residents will have an opportunity to express their thoughts at this meeting.