Readers have mixed reactions to plans to invest in buzzer systems at the entrances of Linn-Mar schools as a measure to beef up security.
"Buzzers/locks did not stop Newton from happening. It's a good step that might deter someone, but not a "for sure" thing," Angy Snoop said in a discussion about the story on the Marion Patch Facebook page.
In the week of a the Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre, Linn-Mar officials decided on a school-system wide security upgrade that would include buzzers, intercoms and cameras at entrances to help keep out intruders. Linn-Mar
Superintendent Katie Mulholland declined to specify the cost estimate so as to not lose ground in contract negotiations but she said it was among several projects that will be included in a $250,000 bill.
Some opponents of the project say the money is better spent elsewhere.
"The cost of such a system is enormous compared to the benefit, because there is no benefit. It doesn't help," Rick Langel left as a comment.
Sandy Colberg, wrote that "if a loony~tune wants to do heavy duty damage he/she will find a way."
Mulholland said the added security at the entrance likely wouldn't stop someone who intends harm at a school, but it could slow them enough to where police could help.
Linn-Mar officials are primed to move forward with the project, and Mulholland said it would not be a matter for public debate. There will not be a public hearing on the project, she told Patch last week.
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