During a recent government meeting, community members expressed concerns regarding public safety and police staffing, emphasizing the need for increased communication and accountability. A board member highlighted the importance of approving a well-structured budget to ensure adequate police staffing, stating, \"If you don't have the staff, you can't do the job.\" The board agreed to receive quarterly updates from the police chief, with the first scheduled for January, to discuss police activity and community safety.

Community member Robin Healy, a mother of two individuals in the disabled community, voiced her concerns about the impact of a recent incident in Plains Park, stating that young adults in the area feel scared and heartbroken. She urged the board to prioritize safety for vulnerable populations, emphasizing that no one should feel afraid to walk in their community.

The police chief acknowledged the ongoing investigation related to the incident and requested patience from the community. Several attendees expressed frustration over the perceived lack of action regarding safety issues in the town, with one resident questioning why efforts to address ongoing problems in the Square have not yielded results.

The meeting also featured discussions about accountability among parents of youth engaging in risky behaviors. Ellen Dugas Gasser called for parents to be held responsible for their children's actions, suggesting that community representatives should work together to ensure accountability.

Concerns about youth behavior were echoed by other residents, who reported instances of dangerous biking and reckless conduct in the area. One resident questioned whether educational meetings with students adequately communicated the consequences of their actions, including the potential confiscation of bicycles.

Overall, the meeting underscored a community eager for improved safety measures, better police staffing, and a collaborative approach to addressing youth behavior and public safety concerns.