School committee approves tighter loitering language and police detail at BF Norton after recent incident

The Cumberland School Committee on Sept. 25 voted unanimously to request a narrow change to a town loitering ordinance and approved a police detail at BF Norton, actions the committee said respond to a recent safety incident at the school. Committee member Smith moved the committee’s request to the town to amend “Town Ordinance Chapter 26-8” to clarify that loitering rules apply in “any school yards during school hours”; the motion passed 6-0 after a second by Committee member Shay. Superintendent Dr. Thornton described the ordinance change as a “minor” text edit with important practical effect for school safety. The committee also approved a police detail at BF Norton for the school year. Dr. Thornton said the district’s safety team recommended adding a police car stationed “in the front where the play area is” so officers can be visible while students are using the playground and assist during other parts of the day. Committee member Shay moved the detail and it passed 6-0 after a second by Committee member Bacon. In committee discussion, Smith said the proposed wording would give the chief of police clearer authority to restrict presence on school property during school hours. The committee read the amendment aloud in open session, noting the change removes a broader reference and inserts the specific phrase “in any school yards during school hours.” The committee did not attach a timeline for submitting the change to the town council; members directed staff to proceed with requesting the amendment. The police detail will be paid through existing town/school safety arrangements; the committee did not identify a new dedicated line item during the meeting. The votes follow a recent, unspecified incident at BF Norton that prompted a safety review and the district to add a temporary police presence earlier this month. Committee members said the amendments are intended to reduce ambiguity about use of school grounds and allow the police chief and school officials to act quickly during school hours. A copy of the ordinance language discussed in open session is part of the committee’s meeting record; the committee did not cite state statute or other legal authority during its discussion. The committee adjourned at 7:53 p.m.