During the meeting, the Brookline Police Chief argued for the reinstatement of the SRO program, emphasizing its past success in building relationships and fostering communication between students, school staff, and the police. The Chief expressed concern over a rise in juvenile arrests since the program’s discontinuation. He highlighted that the SROs provided critical educational programs on issues such as cyber safety and substance abuse, programs which have since ceased, leaving a gap in student support services.

Community members who supported the reinstatement shared anecdotes highlighting the positive impact of SROs on student well-being, with some arguing that the program had been unfairly dismantled amid broader anti-police sentiments following significant national events. Proponents underscored the role of SROs in preventing the school-to-prison pipeline by offering diversionary support and maintaining a presence that fostered trust and safety within schools.

However, opposition voices raised concerns about the reintroduction of police officers into schools without adequate public engagement or consideration of the community’s previous decisions. Critics argued that the decision to end the SRO program in 2021 had been reached through thorough community input and should not be reversed without a similarly comprehensive process. Concerns were also expressed about the potential for the SRO program to evoke fear among certain student groups, particularly minorities, and the need for alternative mechanisms to provide student support without a police presence.

The Select Board ultimately considered a resolution to request that the school committee re-evaluate the SRO program, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach between the school administration and the police to address community concerns.

Beyond the SRO debate, the meeting also addressed development issues in Brookline, particularly the redevelopment of the Chestnut Hill commercial area. Proposals from City Realty were discussed, including mixed-use projects aimed at enhancing the area’s commercial tax base. The board considered feedback from community members and experts about the potential impacts of these developments, such as traffic congestion and the need for affordable housing, amid ongoing discussions with MassDOT about improving access routes.

Additionally, the board deliberated on zoning modifications related to light pollution and building ownership on shared lots, reflecting ongoing efforts to navigate complex local regulatory and community interests.