The Little Falls Police & Fire Board Monday night approved a plan suggested by Chief of Police Michael Masi to create a list of substitute crossing guards who would be called on an as needed basis to cover for crossing guards who need or take time off.
“We are looking to prepare for the upcoming school year, and by having a list of substitute crossing guards we will be able to give time off to our crossing guards when they need it,” said Masi. “It also means we will not have to utilize our police officers to fill-in for our crossing guards.”
“Having back-up is always a good idea,” said board member Mark Feane. “It’s just good practice.”
The chief said that with the approval he will begin to advertise for substitute crossing guards.
In addition, the board approved placing a crossing guard at the intersection of Ward and Burwell streets.
“We used to have a crossing guard posted at this intersection, but in recent years we have not,” said Masi. “It is a high volume intersection and about 25 to 30 children cross there. Having a crossing guard posted at this corner will certainly increase their safety.”
Board member Kip LaQue asked how adding additional crossing guards will impact the budget.
Masi said that the impact would be minimal, as the substitute crossing guards will be paid only when they work and that the crossing guard at the intersection of Ward and Burwell streets would only work 10 to 15 hours a week. He said that he would have figures available by next month.
LaQue also suggested that crossing guards should be subjected to a background check prior to their hiring.
“In today’s world you just don’t know about people, so it makes sense to conduct background checks before hiring anyone,” said LaQue.
The chief agreed and said that he did not have an issue with implementing LaQue’s suggestion.
In other business Monday:
•Masi said that he has received positive comments regarding the increased usage of the bicycle patrol.
Earlier in the month the police department transitioned from having two patrol cars on duty to one during certain hours of the day.
During those hours the bicycle patrol is utilized not only to save on fuel, but to increase interactions between the officers and the public.
“People have responded positively to the change,” said Masi. “They like seeing the officers out on foot in the community.”
The chief said that the transition allows for flexibility, as the officers are able to utilize both cars when needed.
“Circumstances on some days lend us to having both patrol cars in service, but that is the advantage of this schedule,” said Masi. “The second car is just not being used on routine patrol, but that does not mean that it can not be used when needed.”
•Mayor Bob Peters said that in the month since Masi was appointed police chief he has not received any negative comments. “Chief Masi has been a positive for the city,” said Peters. “He has begun a lot of programs that are beneficial for the city, and I am appreciative of his efforts.”
•A letter from Little Falls Superintendent of Schools Lou Patrei was read praising the police department for their quick apprehension of three individuals who broke into the school on June 28. The Police & Fire Board also commended the department for their response.
Little Falls, N.Y. —
