MARLBOROUGH – Next time you drive by a construction project, you may see a retired police officer handling the traffic.
During its Aug. 21 meeting, the City Council approved a request from Police Chief David Giorgi to create the position of “special traffic constable” to help fill the gap whenever regular police personnel are not available for traffic details.
“We’re looking to incorporate officers who have ‘aged out’ [from 65 to 70 years old],” Lt. Dan Campbell told the council’s Finance Committee on July 31.
He added there are six to 10 potential candidates.
Both Giorgi and Campbell said there are currently not enough officers to handle traffic at the many construction sites in the city.
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“The ability to utilize a former experienced police officer to fill vacant traffic detail locations would enhance our ability to do so [conduct traffic details],” said Giorgi.
The proposal could help “redirect some of the demand on our officers,” said Councilor Samantha Perlman.
According to the proposal filed by Giorgi to the mayor’s office in May, the constable would be a retired police officer who has surpassed the officer’s 65th birthday. The constable, who would be appointed by the mayor, would be used solely for paid police traffic details.
“The authority of the special traffic constables is strictly limited to the direction, control and regulation of vehicular traffic. They have no authority to issue citations, effect seizures, serve warrants and other processes, or make arrests. Special traffic constables are not authorized to wear a badge, carry a firearm, baton, pepper spray or any other weapon while on duty,” Giorgi said in the proposal.
These constables would not be sworn police officers, and they would not be eligible for benefits such as health insurance, vacation or sick time. They would be considered employees at will.
According to Campbell, the constables would wear a different uniform from regular officers – green with a blue stripe.
The constables would be paid at the same rate as special officers – $62.50 per hour. The funds would come from the Police Department’s operating budget, although the constable would be responsible for any costs for training and equipment.
“It’s something that’s worth trying,” said Councilor Kathleen Robey.
