Police involvement still possible after 4J resource officer decision

The Eugene School District 4J School Board's Wednesday decision to remove police officers stationed inside their schools come 2021 still leaves room for the possibility of police involvement in some form.

We're following up tonight on the 4j school district's decision to remove police officers stationed in schools starting in 20-21.

Kezi 9 news reporter chris lueneburg has a closer look at what led up to the decision last night and what it means for the future of 4j's school safety.

Throughout the meeting it appeared most board members agreed on one thing: now is the time for change.

"we aren't going to have more time on our hands three months from now.

We arent going to have perfect information.

But what is likely to happen is that the moment of urgency and public pressure passes."

There was little disagreement over shortening the police contract to just 6 months and putting in a 30-day escape clause-- but what comes next caused some debate.

"we are going to create something new.

I don't know if that will include some contract with the city for epd services, but i don't think we can include the exact model as it exists now."

While some were hesitant to remove school resource officers without more research, the measure passed 6 to 1.

"add sot with the door still open for the possibility of some sort of police involvement-- eugene police chief chris skinner says they can get creative to meet the district's needs-- if they get a seat in the discussion.

But the ability to investigate threats to safety is essential.

"it really concerns me that lacking a contract that has that capability, it leaves our schools, our kids and our staff vulnerable."

The board says it's too early to know if their solution will involve police... but board members say the situation requires decisive action.

"that goes beyond, 'what will the future looks like,' and really says, 'i know what the future isn't going to look like."

Reporting