The final report of the county's task force studying the potential advantages and problems of consolidating municipal police departments has been coming under scrutiny in area towns.

Green Brook's Township Committee discussed the study last month, and Monday, the Watchung Borough Council held a public hearing on the study.

The study concluded that consolidating police in an extra-governmental entity, called the "Joint Meeting," into precincts (placing Green Brook, North Plainfield, Warren and Watchung together in one precinct), could save county taxpayers $40 million over the next 10 years.  

But when Watchung CFO Bill Hance broke down the savings for the borough's residents, it came to as much as $94 per year—which some residents said didn't seem to be enough to forego the level of protection and service they fell they are getting with the current department.

What do you think about the proposal? Take our poll and tell us whether you support consolidation or not—and tell us why in the comments box below.