On Friday, September 12th, I was buying lunch at Panera’s on Greentree Road when I ran into a PTA member who asked me, “Why did the Commission want to take Officer Mike Riemer from the school?” After I explained the situation to her, she thanked me and was glad that I had corrected the wrong impression she previously had. In fact, she recommended that I communicate directly to the public. I have not been blogging since I was elected Commissioner and I realize that I should speak out to the residents of Mt. Lebanon concerning important issues.

The facts regarding the Keystone Oaks officer reassignment are as follows. The Commission was presented with a request from Keystone Oaks that they would pay $60K for Mt. Lebanon to reassign an officer to Keystone Oaks. At the end of 2006, Mt. Lebanon was providing an officer to Keystone Oaks and my understanding was that we would receive $60K additional revenue to go back to the same situation at the end of 2006, which was providing the same officer at Keystone Oaks. The Commission voted (3 votes in favor, including myself, and 2 against) to provide an officer to Keystone Oaks and for Mt. Lebanon to receive the $60K. Keep in mind this was not in line with the recommendation of the Police Chief who wanted the Commission to add either another police officer or turn down the proposal from Keystone Oaks. Adding another permanent police officer when we only had a one year commitment from Keystone Oaks did not seem to be a good decision at the time.

Instead of reverting back to the same situation at the end of 2006 (i.e. providing the same officer to provide services back to Keystone Oaks), the Police Chief decided to reassign Mike Riemer, without informing the Commission. It was only when several concerned PTA members emailed me days after this decision was made that I found out about this unexpected change. At the next Commission Executive session, the Police Chief explained the reasons for pulling Mike Riemer out of his school responsibilities and reassigning him to Keystone Oaks. Several new facts were presented at this meeting which did not make it feasible to meet the proposal of Keystone Oaks. I did not and would have never made the decision to take Officer Mike Riemer from his school duties and reassign him.

This is a prime example of when I believe a good decision was improperly executed. Personally, I feel blind-sided by the decision to reassign Officer Riemer. I understood the Chief’s reasons after the additional new facts were presented; however, I believe that the proper communication and presentation of all facts at decision time would have prevented this situation from happening. I have since requested Steve Feller, the municipal manager, to inform the Commission about the implementation details, particularly if the decision is not in line with the recommendation of any of the Municipal Heads.

One positive outcome has arisen from this issue – I realize the importance of clearing up misunderstandings and communicating important issues to the residents of Mt. Lebanon. I intend to continue to keep you informed and look forward to viewing your comments.