The 5th Precinct will have a lower level of functionality, according to Nassau County Legislator Howard Kopel (R-Lawrence).

“Very seldom does the average citizen go into a precinct — when there’s an emergency, they call 911,” Kopel said. “All calls go to a central dispatch, which is more efficient, so there will be the same patrols as before, with no difference. I’ve been assured by [Nassau County Police Commissioner Thomas V.] Dale that this will work fine.”

Kopel added that he believes the merger will not compromise public safety, assuming that the police union, the Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association, cooperates.

“There were a lot of scare tactics and misinformation used by the police union during the debate of whether this should happen or not,” Kopel said, adding that he is confident 4th Precinct commanding officer Inspector Christopher Clearly “will make things happen so everything works right.”

County Legislator Carrié Solages (D-Elmont), however, does not agree with the precinct merger and voted against the plan earlier this year. “I remain appalled by the administration’s move to close half of the police precincts in Nassau County,” he said in a statement. “The sudden need for additional space demonstrates a rushed and poorly executed plan by the county executive, which will now cost Nassau residents.”