Activist demands end to traumatic police drills in schools

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced their concerns and experiences regarding local issues, particularly focusing on housing and public safety.

One speaker, a recently retired outreach representative for Senator Bernie Sanders, expressed a desire to continue serving on the planning commission, highlighting over 40 years of experience in affordable housing and community development. They emphasized their commitment to giving back to the community and sought support from fellow members.

In a more contentious discussion, Leif Toronto, a resident of the North End, criticized the perception that public spaces are being overtaken by unhoused individuals, arguing that this reflects poorly on the community. Toronto supported city funding for encampments, asserting that unhoused individuals are neighbors deserving of dignity and support.

Toronto also raised alarm over a recent incident involving Burlington police, who responded to a report of a man with what turned out to be a toy gun. They condemned the police's heavy-handed response, which included officers armed with rifles, and criticized a recent active shooter drill staged with students. Toronto argued that such drills are traumatizing for children, especially those already affected by school shooting fears, and called for the program's termination and accountability for the police involved.

The meeting concluded with Julie Masuga, a resident of Ward 2, preparing to share her thoughts, but the focus remained on the pressing issues of housing and public safety, reflecting the community's urgent need for dialogue and action.