It’s time for Alcona County residents to vote on funding the Huron Undercover Narcotics Team through a millage.

Last month the issue was discussed, but no action was taken by commissioners. Wednesday the issue was discussed again by commissioners, who heard an update on the HUNT program from Commander D/Lt. Stuart Sharp and County Prosecutor Thomas Weichel. The information was informative and relevant, and hopefully will lead to a proposed issue that would be put before voters later this year.

All of us would like to believe that where we live, there never is crime or corruption and drug abuse is something that just happens “downstate” in the inner city. Unfortunately, that is not the case. And, while indeed Northeast Michigan is a “slice of Heaven,” most of us today realize that drug problems know no boundaries. There are residents here from all walks of life who suffer from addiction issues – whether it be prescription drug abuse or heroin and cocaine use.

Perhaps the most telling information came from Weichel, who said “I used to use the figure that 85 to 90 percent of the crimes involve the illegal use and abuse of controlled substances.” In other words, when you help curtail drug use, you help curtail crimes in the community.

Alcona County residents are working on language for millage to support HUNT, and other law enforcement efforts in the county. We’re anxious to see what they come up with, as we believe the support is needed.