In the face of rising fuel costs, Union County Sheriff Rocky Nelson has put into place measures to reduce fuel consumption and minimize the impact of gas prices on taxpayers.

Previous steps begun in May 2007 included encouraging more stationary patrols and utilizing more two-person patrol units when possible. The measures raised concern in April 2008 when it was discovered that despite using 1,054 fewer gallons than in April 2007, costs still increased by $276.

With this in mind, the sheriff's office has put in place additional measures to again lower fuel consumption, including parking cruisers and walking residential neighborhoods, increasing the use of motorcycle patrol, stationary radar, telephone reporting, keeping a deputy on station to take reports, and eliminating excessive engine idling by shutting off cruisers whenever possible.

Additionally, the sheriff will increase public awareness and the use of the Broadway Substation maintained by the sheriff's office. Anyone living closer to the substation than the main office in Marysville is encouraged to call and have deputies meet them in Broadway rather than driving to Marysville. This will reduce fuel costs for both the county and the citizens.

"Everyone is affected in some way by these prices and our patrol cars are no different. My goal is to remain accountable to the citizens of the county for the money we spend for fuel. Although we are changing the way we do business, I want everyone to know that we will not sacrifice the safety of our citizens to accomplish this," Nelson said.