‘Danish capital of America’ Solvang plotting against its own cops

An adorable California town know as the “Danish capital of America” is trying to ditch its sheriffs for a neighboring police force due to high prices.

Solvang in Santa Ynez Valley wants to bring in Lompoc cops because the cost of deputies has soared from $1.56 million in 2016 to an estimated $3.4 million next year.

The city council voted on May 26 to begin negotiations with the rival department but said it was more of a fact-finding mission rather than a final decision, the Santa Barbara Independent reported.

The move would see the city cut ties with its own department, which has been in place since the town was incorporated in 1985.

“This is strictly a value-awareness issue,” City Manager Randy Murphy said during council discussions, arguing the city does not believe it is receiving services that justify the growing price tag.

The current law enforcement contract now represents the city’s largest discretionary expense.

For that cost, city officials said Solvang receives around-the-clock patrol coverage equivalent to a single patrol unit on duty at any given time.

The deal does not include dedicated detectives or community resource officers assigned specifically to the city.

Officials have also raised concerns about what they describe as insufficient traffic enforcement, limited assistance during major community events, inconsistent reporting of law enforcement activity and a lack of direct accountability to city leadership.

Lompoc Police Chief Kevin Martin told council members his department could provide a more localized approach, including assigning a lieutenant to work directly with Solvang officials and regularly attend city meetings.

Still, a switch would not come without challenges.

Martin acknowledged that staffing would be the biggest hurdle, requiring the department to hire enough officers to cover Solvang.

The city also estimates the transition would carry roughly $500,000 in startup costs for police vehicles, equipment, training and personnel.

The sheriff’s office has pushed back against suggestions that a smaller agency could provide equivalent services.

In a statement, the department highlighted its access to specialized investigative units, mental health response teams, forensic services, air support and SWAT capabilities — resources it says smaller municipal departments cannot easily match.

No immediate change is expected.

Solvang’s current contract with the sheriff’s office runs through June 30, 2027. City officials plan to seek a formal proposal from Lompoc before making a final decision.

If an agreement is reached, Lompoc police could take over patrol duties on July 1, 2027. If negotiations fall apart, Solvang has the option to extend its sheriff’s contract for another year while evaluating alternatives.

The debate is also drawing attention from nearby communities. Officials in neighboring Buellton are reportedly monitoring the situation as they review their own law enforcement options.

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