The village board of trustees voted Monday night to end its monthly patrol contract with the McDonough County Sheriff’s Office, citing cost savings and shifting priorities.
Mayor John Connor said the contract, which costs the village $550 a month, is more of a luxury than a necessity. He pointed to nearby Colchester, which is phasing out its contract with the sheriff’s office to build its own full-time police force for the first time in nearly 25 years.
“There were benefits to having the contract early on, especially during COVID when there was uncertainty,” Connor said. “But now, we can put those funds toward major infrastructure projects, like improvements to the lagoon, and negotiating new trash and recycling services starting in 2026.”
Connor also said he recently spoke with Sheriff Nick Petitgout, who assured him the sheriff’s office will continue to respond to emergency and non-emergency calls in Good Hope, even without a formal contract.
“We don’t need that contract right now,” Connor said. “It’s more of a luxury than a necessity.”
The decision is expected to save the village money and free up resources as it prepares for upcoming projects.
