I am appalled that the city is considering eliminating the Mounted Patrol Unit because of budget. I see the Mounted Unit patrolling downtown and along the riverfront. It makes me feel safer knowing that they are around. From atop a horse, these officers have the advantage of seeing things officers in cars might miss.

Horses open the door for conversation with people of all ages and help officers build a bond with the community. Mounted officers are highly effective at crowd control, can quickly move through crowds to respond to incidents, and easily traverse areas not accessible by vehicle.

It seems the city would take a loss if this unit were dissolved. There is no way to recoup the investment put into such a well- established unit. Once eliminated, it is doubtful the city could afford to re- establish a mounted unit. I own horses and know that the cost of keeping the Mounted Unit has to be minimal in comparison to the cost of many other unnecessary programs funded by the city.

I hope City Council will reconsider eliminating the Mounted Patrol Unit and do something positive for the city - keep the horses on the street!
Laura A. Thomas
Winnsboro, SC