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Residents urge stronger meeting security and report social‑media impersonation in La Marque public comments
Summary
During public comment at the April 14 La Marque council meeting, speakers asked the city to strengthen council‑chamber security (metal detectors), described social‑media impersonation and harassment, and criticized inconsistent police responses to neighborhood disturbances.
La Marque — Several residents used the public‑comment period at the April 14 City Council meeting to press officials on security and online impersonation, and to complain about perceived gaps in police response.
Richard Loftus, who identified his address during public comment, asked the council to require elected officials and staff to pass through the same screening procedures used for the public. “I would respectfully ask that you all consider your security policy here at the chamber. ... implement a plan that you as well would do the same thing to further protect us as citizens,” Loftus said, asking that council members and staff also pass through metal detectors and screening when entering council chambers.
Brandon Kentowsky raised concerns about personal safety and local crime response after recounting disputes with neighbors and telling the council he had “lost faith in the system” because he believes police have not adequately enforced noise and property complaints.
Jacqueline Parent said a Facebook account was created using her picture and home information and said she planned to report the impersonation to police. “Somebody has made up a Facebook account with my picture and my house,” Parent told council, and said the account has made her feel unsafe.
Mayor Keith Bell and staff answered procedural questions about how complaints are routed: the city clerk confirmed written complaints are forwarded to the city attorney for determination whether to place items on an agenda. The clerk also said not all citizen complaints automatically appear on the council agenda; staff evaluates whether to schedule items for council consideration.
Why it matters: Public confidence in public‑safety response and in meeting security is a recurring local concern. Speakers asked the city to codify security practices and to ensure transparent handling of impersonation and harassment complaints.
What’s next: Council did not take immediate policy action on metal detectors or social‑media impersonation; residents were advised to file formal reports with police and to submit written complaints to the city clerk for follow‑up.
