MEREDOSIA TO TEST POLICE OFFICER ASSIGNMENT AT SCHOOL

MEREDOSIA — Village officials plan to test assigning a Meredosia police officer to the Meredosia-Chambersburg school several days a week while keeping the officer available to respond to calls elsewhere in the community.

Police Chief Derek Suttles recommended that the village not sign a memorandum of understanding with the school district for a dedicated school resource officer. Under the proposed agreement, the district would pay half of the officer’s salary, but the officer would be required to remain at the school and could not leave to handle other village calls.

Suttles instead proposed keeping the officer on the village payroll. The officer could spend several days each week at the school, monitor traffic before classes and respond elsewhere in Meredosia when necessary.

Mayor Kenneth Scott the Third said the village will give the arrangement a trial run.

Suttles previously discussed placing an officer at the school with Superintendent Thad Walker. Walker and members of the school board have expressed support for an increased police presence on campus.

Village officials also continue monitoring water discoloration, considering future water-system improvements and discussing several street and traffic changes.