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September 28, 2023
On behalf of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and our 1,200 members, I write in support of advancing $3.4 million to fund the Boston regional intelligence center (BRIC) to upgrade, expand, and integrate the Boston Police Department’s technology and protocols related to anti-terrorism, anti-crime, anti-gang, and emergency response and $1 million to fund continued enhancements for regional capabilities to detect nuclear and other radioactive materials and devices. The Boston Police Department urgently requires funding to secure necessary technology and resources.
The Chamber continues to hear from concerned workers, residents, community leaders, business owners, and the broader public about the recent rise in shootings and violent incidents. Funds for appropriate and necessary technology utilized for anti-crime and emergency response will help address the violence in all of Boston’s neighborhoods. While data clearly shows that Boston is not experiencing the levels of crime seen across the country, the work of our public safety officials is necessary and constant, and the business community has a clear role in advocating for a safe region where every person wants to live, work, and lead a thriving business.
Community leaders have expressed that the safety and well-being of the public is at a crisis point, and police funding is necessary to quell recent violence. The Commonwealth earmarked strategic investments in Boston Police Department’s investigations of gun violence and homicides, correctly recognizing that funding police technology will help bring justice to victims and their families. Also, the Department of Homeland Security reserved grant funds to aid the department’s detection of incendiary devices.
Understanding that strong public safety demands a commitment from every public, private, and community stake holder, the business community urges City Councilors to support this funding for data-driven policing that will support the highest quality of life and healthier business climate. While safer than other cities, Boston is not as safe as it needs to be for residents and businesses to feel that sense of safety and succeed. In the first half of this year, crime increased 7% in Downtown Boston. During the previous 19 months, the Boston Police Department was called to the Macy’s department store in Downtown Crossing nearly 150 times for reports of disturbances, threats, and acts of violence. In other Boston neighborhoods, shootings and violence continue and remain unsolved, prompting Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox to call on the public for information regarding violent incidents.
With the increased utilization of social media platforms to plan crimes and lead large, violent disturbances in Downtown Boston and other neighborhoods, the police department urgently needs updated public safety tools for prevention, mitigation, and investigations. We are fortunate to have a commissioner who has been a national leader in the development and use of community policing tactics. Our commissioner continues to prioritize accountability and transparency in the daily work and infrastructure of the police department. The Boston police department took action by removing inactive names from BRIC while also limiting the information that is shared from the database. With the expectations of accountability, 21st century community policing requires the strategic use of enhanced technology capabilities. Boston should aspire to lead all cities in the application of technology to community policing.
As we encourage residents and businesses to remain and grow in Boston, we need a city that is safe and not disrupted by violence. By prioritizing public safety, not only will residents and businesses stay in Boston, but they will also be more inclined to return to the office, support Downtown shops and restaurants, and further invest in a city that is their home.
Instead of turning away this police funding, the City Council should recognize that successful community policing will lead to meaningful results, including prevention, victim support, and solving crimes. This will ensure the long-term vitality and safety of the city’s residents, neighborhoods, and businesses.
The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce asks all members of the Boston City Council to vote to approve this earmarked federal and state funding for our police.
Thank you for your consideration and please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.
Sincerely,
James E. Rooney
President & CEO
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