Park police will disband

SANDUSKY — Months after coming to an agreement for policing services, Cedar Point officials and Sandusky's government finalized terms for new law enforcement operations at the amusement park. For years, the park operated its own police department under the authority of Sandusky's police department and by way of a city ordinance that allowed a separate operation. That arrangement came under intense scrutiny by the Register after an accident in August 2021 led to a park guest being severely injured. A metal plate from a train car on Top Thrill Dragster roller coaster dislodged and hit the woman in the head. The park police refused to release any information related to the accident. Police departments are required to track crime and other activities, including serious injury accidents, and keep reports about those matters. Even private police organizations — such as campus police departments — are required to respond to public records requests, according to a 2015 Ohio Supreme Court ruling. Park officials refused to respond to records requests, however, which prompted the Register to file a complaint with the Ohio Court of Claims. The Register argued the park police was required to provide records based on the 2015 ruling. The arrangement was prone to abuse since the park police department could easily manage matters to protect the park at the expense of the public, the Register contended in its complaint. The newspaper's complaint was dismissed, however, and was not refiled after city officials said the park was negotiating to turn over law enforcement responsibilities to the city police. The new agreement between the city and the park fulfills that promise. Questions, answers During a recent public meeting, city commissioners authorized the deal overseen by Sandusky police Chief Jared Oliver and acting city manager John Orzech. Oliver replaced Orzech as chief when he retired in 2019. Both answered questions about this new arrangement: Q: Can you tell me how this agreement for policing services occurred between Sandusky and Cedar Point? A: Earlier this year, representatives of Cedar Fair (Cedar Point's parent company) informed us that they did not intend on providing police services on their properties in 2023. The city and Cedar Point then issued a joint statement (in June) that the policing authorities of the Cedar Point Police Department would be fully transitioned into the Sandusky Police Department's operation. City staff entered negotiations with representatives of Cedar Point to begin providing law enforcement/police services for them effective on April 1, 2023. The Sandusky Police Department will oversee all law enforcement matters at Cedar Point. The park will still oversee all security matters, including their security officers. The negotiations led to the proposed agreement whereas Cedar Point agrees to pay the city an amount equal to 12 months' salary and benefits for five police officers. After these new positions are filled, we will have a total of 53 full-time police officers. Note: In 2023, Cedar Point intends to provide about $530,000 to Sandusky for policing services. Q: Why will this be a better arrangement, in terms of efficiency and safety, in your opinion? A: This is a win-win for both the safety and security of city and the safety and security of the guests visiting the park. Sandusky police officers will assume control over any law enforcement matters at the amusement park and/or Cedar Point properties, thus leading to a more efficient process and clearly defined role for all involved. The Sandusky Police Department will continue to ensure that our city, including Cedar Point, is a safe place to live, work and visit by providing professional policing services. Q: How long will this deal last? A: The current agreement shall remain in effect until March 31, 2028. The costs for services will be reevaluated yearly.