Mayor Nancy Adams addressed the council, emphasizing the need for improved pedestrian safety measures in light of recent traffic accidents involving children. She proposed an educational campaign in collaboration with local schools to enhance traffic awareness and safety. The mayor’s remarks were bolstered by public comments from residents, who voiced frustration over perceived inadequate safety measures. One resident, Jacob Lambert, criticized the reliance on temporary solutions like orange cones, arguing they were insufficient to protect children from reckless drivers at intersections like Prospect Street. Lambert stressed the need for adult supervision at key crossing points, revealing a community petition advocating for stronger safety measures.

Several community members called for the immediate deployment of crossing guards, particularly at high-risk intersections. They shared personal experiences of near-misses and highlighted the fear and danger associated with crossing busy streets. A seventh grader, Mia Tanner, recounted an unsettling experience while navigating traffic on her way to school.

The council listened as more residents weighed in on the issue. Some suggested exploring options for stricter enforcement of driving laws and potentially revising license renewal requirements based on age. Others, like Erin Sherer, demanded transparency on the costs of hiring additional crossing guards, arguing that ensuring children’s safety should take precedence over financial concerns.

While the council recognized the need for immediate interventions, such as deploying police officers to assist with traffic management, there was also an acknowledgment of the necessity for longer-term solutions. Discussions touched on the importance of collecting and analyzing data to inform future decisions on crossing guard placements, with calls for ongoing assessments to adapt to changing traffic patterns and school demographics.

In response to the community’s concerns, the council deliberated on potential amendments to pedestrian safety protocols. The Chief of Police updated the council on current traffic management efforts, mentioning the deployment of officers and monitoring of crossing patterns. Despite these measures, there was consensus on the need for a systematic approach to ensure resources are effectively allocated to areas with the highest safety risks.

As the meeting progressed, the council also addressed other agenda items, such as ordinances concerning food truck permit procedures and parking limits on South Orange Avenue, both of which were adopted without opposition. Additionally, the council announced the hiring of Kristen Downey as a part-time public information officer, a role funded in the 2024 budget.

The council continued with discussions on zoning and development regulations, acknowledging Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and promoting community involvement in upcoming elections. Yet, the predominant focus remained on pedestrian safety, with council members reiterating their commitment to safeguarding children and ensuring a secure environment for all residents.