Pottstown officials step up security at Ricketts Center after shooting; safety committee to review recommendations

Pottstown borough officials told council on March 5 that the Ricketts Center remains open after a recent shooting on the center's basketball court but that they have implemented immediate security steps and will review longer-term changes. Borough Manager Kellett reported staff increased security procedures in coordination with the center operator, Wordtown MultiService, and the Pottstown Police Department, particularly during student arrival and departure times.

Manager Kellett said borough staff found no indication of an ongoing or immediate security threat that would require ceasing center operations, but called the shooting a targeted incident and said the borough is treating the matter seriously. Actions implemented include stepped-up staff monitoring during high-traffic periods, additional volunteer support to monitor courts, upgraded procedures and a forthcoming safety-committee meeting to review potential security infrastructure or program changes.

Council members and others urged solutions to prevent firearms from entering the Ricketts Center premises. Councilor Monastra said existing incidents have repeated and stressed the need for a solution that does not rely solely on extra police patrols during recreational hours. Councilor Bani said he would work on finding ways to prevent weapons from being brought into the facility.

The safety committee planned to meet before the next council meeting to develop recommendations that could be forwarded to council for consideration. Borough staff said they will provide recommendations after consulting with the center operator, police and community stakeholders.