Dundalk Police Community Relations Council Builds Bridges

The election is over and the leadership of the Dundalk Community Relations Council remains status-quo.

Jim O’Toole withstood a challenge from Bob Hart in their election held May 9 at the North Point Precinct.  The margin was wide enough to indicate the current membership is pleased with the direction of the council.

I did not ask Bob if he was pleased.

The remaining leadership includes assistant director Steve Collins, who ran unopposed, which in my humble opinion is the best campaign strategy.

Walt Stahl retains his treasurer position. Karen Lydick, also unopposed, remains the recording secretary, and Jessica O’Toole will continue her role as membership chairperson. 

The mantra of the council, according to president O’Toole, is to bridge the gap between the citizens and the police department.

To be part of those bridge builders, membership dues are $5 for a single person, and $10 for community groups. Does that sound fair?

Once you are a member you are provided with a copy of the bylaws. Guns are optional. (No, no guns, really.)

The PCRC (acronyms are in) Council meets the second Monday of every month at the North Point Precinct, at 7:30 pm.

Jim O'Toole did say the council is very effective and he related a recent episode in which a registered sex offender was taken off the streets.

There are numerous guest speakers including Baltimore County Police Chief James Johnson and other county officials.

The night of the election Det. Paul Ciepiela gave a great presentation on gangs in Baltimore County. Sadly, no humor in that.