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Westfield crossing guard urges lower speeds near schools; council refers concern to Public Safety Committee and police
Summary
A long‑time Franklin School crossing guard asked the council to reduce speeds near schools after several close calls; council members said the matter will be discussed in Public Safety Committee and the police will assess enforcement and data collection.
Jessica Rinaldi, a crossing guard at Franklin School, told the council she has observed increasing speeds near schools and described incidents where motorists failed to stop at crosswalks and stop signs. Rinaldi asked the council to consider lowering speed limits near schools, suggesting 15 miles per hour in school zones, and to look at additional measures to improve motorist compliance.
Acting Mayor and council members thanked Rinaldi for coming forward and said they had already referred the concern to the Public Safety Committee, chaired by Councilman Dardia. Council members said the police department would review data and enforcement options; the record identifies Sergeant Penn as the officer who will assess speeds in the area. Council members also discussed the town’s radar speed signs and said staff will examine data and enforcement before the next committee meeting.
No formal ordinance or enforcement change was adopted at the meeting; council members instructed staff and police to investigate and bring findings to the Public Safety Committee for further consideration.
