Yesterday’s public memorial service remembering Michael Jackson concluded without any security disturbances–thanks in part to the approximate 3,000 police officers scheduled to be on hand for the event, which was held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. 

Although Los Angeles Councilwoman Jan Perry had said the city would pay for the security efforts needed at the public memorial service, Councilman Dennis Zine argued that the public should not have to foot any of the bill since the city already faces a budget crisis and has amassed $530 million in debt. The security effort reportedly cost as much as $4 million. Instead, he suggested that AEG, the company that owns the Staples Center, should cover all security costs since the company volunteered to host it at the center. 

While some individuals are questioning why the Jackson family isn’t helping to pay for the security efforts, the city has since established a website seeking donations from the public to cover the costs.