TCC played host last week to the first local congressional session since the shooting in Tucson, Ariz., that killed six people and left 13 injured, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.
Shelly Williams/The Collegian
In response to the tragedy, TCC and Hurst police officers slightly increased security for U.S. Rep. Michael Burgess’ town hall meeting Jan. 27 in NE Campus Center Corner.
His meeting was planned before the shooting happened in Tucson, but Burgess said the recent event didn’t hinder his coming to listen to his constituents’ concerns and questions.
“We always try to be respectful of local law enforcement and let them know what we’re doing,” he said. “I’ve always trusted local law enforcement to provide the proportional response, and I’ve never had a reason to second-guess that.”
TCC police chief Frank Buchanan said six TCC officers, including himself, worked the event. Hurst SWAT officers were present during the meeting, but they were there for support as part of the crowd, he said.
“We have all talked, and they’ve agreed to assist us to ensure the safety of not only the congressman, but of the faculty, staff and students in the area,” he said prior to the event.
During the meeting, Burgess touched on several issues such as the budget deficit, energy conservation and the House’s vote to repeal health care reform.
“We’re the closest contact people have with the federal government. We’re the body that raises taxes,” he said. “It’s appropriate for us to be among our constituents. It just has to be that way.”
— Shelly Williams
