LANSING - State Representative Mike Lahti
(D-Hancock) today denounced a plan by the Michigan State Police that would close its post at Calumet and shift personnel
to the L'Anse post. The L'Anse post would then cover an extensive geographical area that would include
all of Keweenaw, Houghton, and Baraga counties.
"I was very surprised
when this closure was announced," said Lahti. "The Calumet post is the second busiest State Police post in the
U.P., covering an area from the tip of the Keweenaw to the Baraga County line and to Twin Lakes and Winona.
Closing this post would be a tremendous blow to public safety in the Copper Country."
"I don't think the State Police considered all of its alternatives before making this decision. I understand that an option to buy the building at fair market price was overlooked," continued Lahti.
Buying the building would allow the State of Michigan to avoid the high expense of the lease agreement, while at the same time making a public infrastructure investment in a great facility. Purchasing the building would save the State $142,500 annually in lease payments.
"Senator Prusi and I are committed to and are working toward finding a way to make the purchase of the building a reality," added Lahti. "I believe that when all of the facts are pointed out that there is a good chance that this issue will be resolved and the post will remain in Calumet."