THEME PARK POLICE UNIT APPROVED BY SUPERVISORS.

Byline: Amy Raisin Darvish Staff Writer

VALENCIA - Los Angeles County supervisors on Tuesday approved an agreement allowing the Sheriff's Department to supplement law enforcement and security at Six Flags Magic Mountain, beginning in 2004.

The Valencia theme park will foot the nearly $580,000 annual bill for the five-person, on-site team, as well as a one-time start-up fee of $183,000, according to terms of the service contract.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department positions - one sergeant and four deputy slots - will be added to the Santa Clarita station's current budget, which includes the department contract with the city of Santa Clarita.

``It doesn't detract from our normal patrols,'' said Lt. Mike Dunkle, who oversees operations at the Santa Clarita station. ``In fact, it makes it better. The (Magic Mountain) team frees up deputies from surrounding neighborhoods who would normally get those routine and emergency calls.''

Called the Tourist Oriented Policing Team, the full-time, on-site squad will handle all complaint calls emerging from the 260-acre park, from petty theft to violent crimes, Dunkle said.

The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the proposal, which cited the theme park's high visibility as a factor in beefing up security in the wake of the 9-11 terrorist attacks.

Tony Bell, press deputy for 5th District Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich, said the agreement benefits everyone, from park patrons to local residents.

``Six Flags is paying for it, so it's at no cost to the taxpayers,'' Bell said. ``But the taxpayers benefit because the other patrols can focus on the (neighborhoods) when a call comes in from Magic Mountain.''

Currently open on weekends only, the theme park is a daily destination for visitors in the busy summer months and holiday breaks.

Amy Raisin Darvish, [phone]

amy.raisin(at)dailynews.com