Homer Glen board authorizes RFP for independent analysis of police services after divided debate

The Village of Homer Glen directed the village manager to prepare a request for proposals (RFP) for an independent analysis of police services and a feasibility study estimating the costs of establishing a municipal police department.

Trustee discussion was split. Supporters said residents frequently ask whether the village could or should have its own force and that an independent, apples-to-apples comparison would provide clarity on services and costs including buildings, vehicles, insurance, pensions and long-term obligations. Opponents said the village has commissioned similar studies in the past, cited previously published multimillion-dollar cost estimates, and argued the expense and political timing made another study unnecessary.

Trustee Shaller (who brought the item forward) said the RFP would not itself spend money on consultants; it would only authorize staff to solicit proposals so the board could later decide whether to fund a study. Trustee Rinders and others argued prior studies showed very high costs to establish a municipal department and worried the issue was being raised as part of election-year politics. Several trustees said they want a clear, third-party cost comparison before responding to resident questions.

Outcome: the board voted to issue the RFP. The village attorney clarified the vote does not create a police department or commit funds to a consultant; it authorizes solicitation of proposals so the board can evaluate scope and estimated costs before deciding to spend money.

Representative quote: "It's simply to issue a request for a proposal to have consultants ... share with the village board ... what it would cost by way of dollars and cents," the village attorney said.