MAINEVILLE — Village Council on Tuesday disbanded the police department and will work with surrounding Hamilton Township to provide police protection.

        The ordinance to end local policing in the Warren County village of about 1,000 was approved 5-1. Council also approved entering into a contract with Hamilton Township to provide protection.

        At times the meeting turned ugly, as Police Chief Joe Lane, who has been chief 30 years, argued with some council members. Chief Lane was the only officer left on the force after cutbacks last year.

        “You guys are a bunch of jerks,” Chief Lane told council at one point.

        About 30 people crowded the tiny village meeting hall. And they shared differing opinions on the police issue.

        “I think this was strictly a budget decision,” said Janet Testerman, a 35-year resident. “If the people of Maineville would take the time to attend the budget meetings, they would understand the figures. We have no choice.”

        But Chief Lane had supporters, too.

        “I think (council) hasn't listened to the citizens at all,” said eight-year resident Brian Lawson. “If Joe's not going to be the police chief, I don't want Hamilton Township. Most of the people I talked with are very disappointed.”

        The Maineville department has suffered substantial cuts in the last year. About a year ago, council cut Chief Lane's pay by $7,000 a year. In the spring, the village fired its six volunteer police officers, eliminated Chief Lane's benefits, reduced him to 15 hours a week and paid him $10 an hour.

        “They backed me into a corner, and I'm going to do whatever it takes,” Chief Lane said. “Right now I'm just ready to fight.”

        The chief said he has hired a lawyer but is unsure what action he might take.

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