In times of budget crunches, it’s nice to know it’s not always verbal sniping and hurt feelings at local government meetings. Interim Racine Police Chief Kurt Wahlen lightened the mood a bit when he told President Greg Helding & the rest of the aldermen about the need to keep as much overtime in his budget as possible. In addition to the normal needs, like crime and accidents, he emphasizes 2012 is a presidential election year.
AUDIO: Wahlen on why he doesn’t want big name candidates in Racine (:25)
“Nothing against President Obama but I hope he doesn’t come back,” said Wahlen, adding it cost the city $30,000 in police overtime for the security detail.
When asked about concerns of security price tags for Republican candidates. He replied, “Once they become a viable candidate, they’re all bad.” The audience chuckled.
Wahlen can talk like that because he’ll likely be back into retirement after a new chief is selected in Racine this coming spring, just in time for the so-called silly season to really start heating up.
Tom Karkow-WRJN