Policing in Bethel
The Bethel town government contracts with the Oxford County Sheriff to get enhanced police coverage, beyond what we pay for in taxes to Oxford County. Specifically, the town pays for 24/7 coverage from 4 deputies who are dedicated to serving Bethel. Without paying for enhanced coverage, we would receive similar coverage to other towns in Oxford County.
Policing costs have risen year after year with no accompanying change in the services being offered, while police are frequently inaccessible when called for. At the June 11 town meeting, townspeople just narrowly voted to fund these enhanced services to the tune of $673,865 for the 2025-26 fiscal year, 40-38.
Note: This is a 17% increase over 2024-25 costs of $573,340. At the new cost of $673,865, the town of Bethel covers 32% of Oxford County’s total deputy salaries of $2.1 million.
Many townspeople raised concerns that there will be no end to the rising costs in policing if the town does not put its foot down. Other townspeople suggested that call logs be monitored and the town be reimbursed when officers go to other towns while on duty in Bethel.
The Bethel Select Board is meeting with the Oxford County Sheriff next week to go line by line through the budget.
Stay tuned for how this pans out.