At the beginning of January, the response to the horrific tragedy in Connecticut was first addressed at a local level by Bob Jefferies with an attempt to establish a local militia so that the town could know who has what types of firearms. When that did not receive the support he had hoped for, the focus then became bylaws and “The Conversation”.
Over the last few months, the term “Conversation”, or “Discussion”, have been used to refer to either public safety or Article 30. Where does the Conversation happen? Who is invited? Did we have it already? There is a mixed message from our town leaders between “the Conversation has spread so far and wide from its original purpose” and “I still want to have a Discussion on public safety in this town”.
If we already had the Conversation, I do not feel that I had the chance to participate. If we have not had the Conversation, it has been three months since it was proposed. What are we waiting for? If you need a starting point, here are my concerns:
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1) Is our police force able to respond within five minutes? We have an excellent force, but have we asked them what they need?
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2) Are our kids safe? We can’t control the uncontrollable, but we have control over training we can offer teachers.
3) Are we as citizens educated? If a child finds a gun, do they know “STOP. Don’t Touch. Leave the Area. Tell a Parent”? They learn “Stranger Danger” and “Stop. Drop. Roll”, but are we providing the best message to children on "Don't touch guns"?
As adults, do we have a plan in case of a home invasion or break-in like we do in case of a fire? I’ve never had a fire, but have experienced break-ins twice now.
What are we supposed to do if an attacker comes into our library or something horrible happens in the town square during an event? I know exactly what to do if I am on a plane and it crashes but that is not helpful here.
Holliston held a forum with a diverse panel of experts. Everyone was invited. People were able to ask questions and panel members were allowed to answer and discuss their area of expertise. People were able to simply be heard. That felt like a Conversation. Are we likely so see something similar in Westford’s future? If so, please invite me and I will be there.