On Tuesday, Carrboro Town Council will convene to weigh a proposal to merge the town’s police department with the Chapel Hill Police Department. The plan, outlined in slides released by the town, envisions a five‑year transition that aims to create significant efficiencies and cost savings for both municipalities.

Proposed benefits of the merger

The town’s presentation highlights several anticipated advantages:

• Reduced personnel, capital, technology, and specialized service costs, with projected savings beginning in the second year of the merger.
• A single 911 system, allowing Orange County to operate a unified call center for both towns.
• Continuation of existing mutual‑aid agreements to prevent any gaps in service or response times.
• Expanded alternatives for sworn officers, including the Orange County CARE Team, 24‑hour crisis co‑responders, and civilian crash investigators.
• A newly renovated 33,000‑square‑foot facility capable of housing current Carrboro police staff and operational needs.

Community response

Opposition to the merger is strong. More than 100 residents filled a council meeting on Oct. 29 to voice concerns, with some describing the proposal as a “purge” of Carrboro’s police identity. Organizers of the upcoming rally anticipate at least four dozen participants, reflecting widespread apprehension about losing local control over public safety.

Current staffing and transition plan

Carrboro’s police department currently employs 28 officers, according to Town Manager Patrice Toney. Under the merger plan, Carrboro officers would gradually transition to become part of the Chapel Hill Police Department. The name for the unified department has not yet been decided.

Council’s next steps

The council will hear public comments before voting on whether to move forward with the merger study. If approved, the towns will begin a phased integration, with the goal of completing the consolidation within five years.

What residents can do

Citizens are encouraged to attend the Tuesday meeting, submit written comments, and stay informed through the town’s website, where meeting materials and the merger proposal are posted. The council’s decision will shape how public safety is delivered in both Carrboro and Chapel Hill for years to come.

Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.