In the heart of Framingham City Hall, the Finance Subcommittee convened to address pressing concerns about public safety and community policing. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as city officials and police representatives discussed the current state of law enforcement coverage and the challenges faced by the Framingham Police Department.

Chief of Police highlighted the department's limited coverage, stating, "We have weekend coverage. It is not 24/7, but they will respond if something rises to the level where we need them." The chief explained that while the department operates primarily on a 9 to 5 schedule, adjustments are made to accommodate the needs of the community, particularly during weekends. However, staffing shortages have made it difficult to maintain consistent coverage, especially during peak times.

The conversation quickly shifted to the growing demands on the police force. Chief noted that while crime, including drug-related issues, remains a concern, the community's top priority is traffic enforcement. "I only have two officers that conduct traffic enforcement," he lamented, emphasizing the need for more personnel to address this pressing issue. The chief also pointed out that the department has been stretched thin, responding to approximately 52,000 calls for service across a sprawling 26-square-mile area.

As the discussion progressed, the chief underscored the importance of community policing and proactive measures. He expressed a desire for more officers to deter crime rather than merely react to it. "The more officers out there, the more deterrent," he stated, urging the committee to consider the city's growth and the corresponding need for increased police presence.

The chief also addressed the rising overtime costs, attributing them to various factors, including staffing vacancies and the need to backfill shifts during training and significant events. "We had a lot more vacancies," he explained, noting that it takes about a year to fully train new officers. The committee members expressed their support for the chief's initiatives, recognizing the importance of community engagement and the challenges of modern policing.

As the meeting drew to a close, the chief committed to providing the committee with data on crime trends and staffing needs, reinforcing the department's dedication to transparency and community safety. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the Framingham Police Department and the critical need for resources to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The meeting concluded with a shared understanding that addressing these issues is vital for the future of Framingham.