Cellucci mulls bill for funding security at presidential debate

By Jamal E. Watson, Globe Staff, 8/8/2000

assachusetts' successful bid to host one of this year's presidential debates brought with it a measure of civic pride. It also could cost the state $900,000.

That's how much the Legislature approved to provide additional security for the nation's first televised presidential debate of the season, scheduled to take place Oct. 3 at the University of Massachusetts at Boston.

The bill, awaiting approval from Governor Paul Cellucci, would allow Boston to deploy more police officers for the event, which is expected to draw protesters.

State Senator Mark C. Montigny, the New Bedford Democrat who chairs the Senate Ways and Means Committee, said the bill is meant to help the city bear the cost of an event that would train the spotlight on the entire state.

''This is a great opportunity for the city of Boston and for the entire state of Massachusetts,'' Montigny said. ''It is very, very expensive to put on a presidential debate, and the cost should not be borne by the city and the university.''

Mayor Thomas M. Menino said the additional funding would be welcomed, adding that Boston police are prepared to deal with any contingencies.

''Our police officers are well-trained and they're always prepared to deal with any problems, if they arise,'' Menino said. ''We're prepared.''

Boston police refused to discuss specific security plans for the debate, including which streets will be closed to motorists. Morrissey Boulevard, a Dorchester artery, provides primary access to the UMass-Boston campus.

Jason Kauppi, a spokesman for the governor, said Cellucci is still considering the bill.

If approved, the allotted funds would also be used for infrastructure improvements and additional equipment for the debate site.

Officials at UMass-Boston, which is sponsoring the debate with the John F. Kennedy Library, said they are coordinating with the Secret Service to ensure the safety of students and staff members.

Annemarie Lewis-Kerwin, a university spokeswoman, said classes the day of the debate have been canceled.

''When the Democratic Convention wraps up, all eyes will be on UMass-Boston,'' she said.

More than 1,000 journalists are expected to cover the debate and 350 guests are expected to attend.