The meeting began with a discussion about the Fall River Public Library’s security challenges. The library director, accompanied by her team, presented a case for creating two new positions: a museum security officer and a public library service officer. These roles aim to address ongoing safety concerns, particularly those involving individuals experiencing homelessness and problematic behavior within the library. The director recounted specific incidents, including a serious situation where a library patron attempted self-harm. Such emergencies underscored the need for trained security personnel who could intervene promptly and effectively.

Currently, the library employs two part-time security guards who lack crucial qualifications like first aid and CPR training. This gap in readiness has raised concerns about the safety of both staff and patrons, especially children. While police involvement in library incidents is rare, the existing security measures have proven insufficient in managing escalating situations until police arrive. The council considered the financial implications of creating full-time security positions, with an estimated annual budget of $100,000 covered by state aid funds. However, concerns about the sustainability of these positions and the necessity for ongoing training were expressed.

The debate also included a historical overview of the library’s security staffing, highlighting previous attempts to outsource services, which were deemed ineffective. Council members weighed the benefits of in-house security staff against outsourcing, emphasizing the importance of having personnel equipped with law enforcement or military backgrounds, or specialized security training. The discussion revealed a consensus on the need for urgent action, with plans to prioritize this topic in upcoming meetings to ensure the library’s operational safety.

In tandem with library security, the council also debated the issue of illegal dumping. The discussion was prompted by concerns that the current $300 fine is insufficient to deter illegal activities, such as the improper disposal of construction debris and tires. The council noted that such fines do not reflect the costs of legal disposal and fail to discourage offenders adequately. The deputy chief explained that while current enforcement often involves criminal charges, a reevaluation of the fine structure could strengthen deterrence. Suggestions included raising fines for larger items and aligning penalties with the actual cost of disposal.

The need for a clearer fee schedule was emphasized to ensure that fines are effectively communicated and enforced, thereby reducing the likelihood of cases being dismissed in court. The council also considered the possibility of combining civil and criminal approaches to enhance enforcement capabilities. The conversation highlighted the challenges faced by environmental officers, particularly at the Copa Reservoir, where increased visitor numbers have exacerbated littering issues. The council recognized the necessity for additional manpower and better signage to inform the public about the illegality of dumping.