Somerville residents advocate for school funding and reduced police budget

Residents of Somerville voiced strong concerns about the city’s budget priorities during a recent government meeting, emphasizing the need for increased funding for social programs and education rather than continued expansion of police spending.

Community members expressed frustration over what they perceive as a disproportionate allocation of resources to law enforcement, particularly in light of cuts to federal social programs. One resident highlighted the urgency of addressing these issues, stating, “We are a country in crisis, and we need to take action in this moment.” This sentiment was echoed by others who called for a redirection of funds towards essential services such as education and affordable housing.

Mike Gintz, a long-time attendee of these meetings, urged the city to prioritize civilian roles for traffic management over police involvement, arguing that investing in community wellness initiatives would yield better outcomes than increasing police budgets. He stated, “I could throw a dart at a wall and land on something that is more likely to increase the city's wellness than spending more money on policing.”

Claire Hartman, another resident, succinctly requested full funding for Somerville schools, aligning her plea with the budget needs outlined by the Somerville Educators Union. This call for educational support was a recurring theme, as many residents underscored the importance of investing in the future of the city’s youth.

Additionally, Jacqueline Lombard advocated for a pilot program for air filtration systems, linking environmental health to social equity. She suggested reallocating funds from the police budget to support this initiative, emphasizing the disproportionate impact of pollution on low-income communities and communities of color.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community is calling for a shift in budget priorities, urging city officials to consider the long-term benefits of investing in social programs and education over traditional law enforcement expenditures. The discussions reflect a growing demand for a more equitable approach to city funding that addresses the pressing needs of all residents.