A representative from the Contra Costa Sheriff's Department has confirmed they are being considered as a provider of Hercules police department services.  A city representative said a tax measure is on the June 4 ballot.  If the tax increase is not approved they will likely need to disband their full time department and hire a contract law enforcement provider.  Elected officials said that if this happens. residents should expect to see little or no change to the type of service they are receiving now.

Contra Costa sheriff's deputies have said that if the community looks at this from a practical perspective, it makes sense.  The sheriff's department will continue to work with the city manager and local elected officials to reduce and prevent crime.  They can also offer specialized services that only a larger-sized agency is capable of bringing to the table.  Lastly, contract services can often save tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.  This can be a very important point to consider, they said, especially since police departments throughout the state have had their budgets trimmed.

The City Manager, though, said they are still evaluating the numbers to see if a switch would make sense. Neighboring cities said they mulled over their decision to disband their own police departments.  Those that have said they are pleased with how things have turned out.  Some say they have benefited from the scale and expertise of the Contra Costa Sheriff's Department.

Opponents say this will significantly harm community based policing models.  The city also runs the risk of losing its Explorers program. In addition, civilian volunteers and reserve officers will no longer be needed.   Those who advocate keeping a local police department have asked city officials to consider cutting staff.  At the current time the Hercules PD employs 20 officers and one chief.   A reduction to two sergeants a chief, and two deputies is reportedly being looked at.   It is unclear when elected officials will make their final determination.  The matter is ongoing.