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Trustees approve budget that funds trial of private overnight security amid resident safety concerns
Summary
Brightwaters trustees adopted a 2025–26 budget that overrides the tax cap and includes funding to trial a private overnight security contractor after residents reported late‑night car break‑ins and safety incidents; trustees debated costs, liability, and alternatives.
The Brightwaters board approved a tentative 2025–26 budget that includes a trial contract for private overnight security and a plan to draw on reserves to cover the increase. The budget, presented as a 4.5% rise in the village tax levy, would cost most households roughly $40–$70 more per year and budgets about $103,000 for a full year of contracted overnight patrols.
Supporters said the contractor would fill an enforcement gap during the overnight hours most affected by thefts. "Most of the time, we find out that a lot of people just randomly open car doors," a Southern County police officer told the board during the meeting, describing thefts that occur between about 1 a.m. and 4 a.m. Trustees and residents pointed to patterns of people walking streets and opening unlocked cars, and argued that a proactive overnight presence could deter the trend.
Opponents warned the expense and the risk of gradually expanding security responsibilities. One trustee said the contract was a "major contributor" to the budget increase and questioned whether the village had exhausted lower‑cost options. Board members noted the contract reviewed is month‑to‑month with a 30‑day cancellation clause, and the board said it will monitor effectiveness and reallocate funds if the trial is unsuccessful.
The board voted to adopt the budget as presented and to proceed with the contract trial; motions to approve the tentative budget and related motions passed by voice vote.
