Northfield Select Board Issues Public Statement Regarding Police Chief

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STATEMENT BY THE NORTHFIELD SELECT BOARD

“The Town of Northfield is committed to fostering a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community. We also believe that trust in the Town and its employees is of utmost importance.

News stories from local media outlets this week have recounted that members of the Northfield community feel this trust has been diminished. These news stories have referenced the Northfield Police Chief’s public comments on school locker room policy and, from earlier last year, a school’s decision to fly a Black Lives Matter flag.

The Town recognizes that absent other compelling circumstances, the First Amendment allows Town employees to speak as private citizens on matters of public concern. The Town respects its employees’ desire to stay informed on local, state, and national affairs. However, the views and opinions expressed by Town employees in this regard are their own and are not the views and opinions of the Town.

We want to take this opportunity to reiterate our focus on and dedication to ensuring that all members of our community can live and thrive here, free from discrimination. We are committed to having an unbiased and discrimination-free municipal government. The Town has taken recent steps in furtherance of that commitment, including making our Declaration of Inclusion and preparing to institute Diversity, Equity & Inclusion training for all Town employees.

We acknowledge that trust is earned, and we are committed to earning and keeping the trust of our entire community.”