TAKING OWNERSHIP
Dear Community Members,
I have been a resident of Arlington Heights for over 25 yrs. and I'm happy to say that crime in our area is down more than 22% compared to this time last year. I know for a fact that this reduction is largely the result of the leadership and support of Wilshire Area LAPD Captain Eric Davis, his command staff and in particular, the work of our Senior Lead Officer Spiro Roditis. I also know that another important contributing factor in this reduction is that a growing number of our residents are taking ownership of their community--not just personal or private property, but taking ownership of their sidewalks, streets, alleys, blocks and neighborhoods.
Where do you begin to take ownership of your community?
- I believe you start by becoming a good neighbor. Make that decision to connect and network with your neighbors and look out for each other. No one person can do it alone.
- Next, be proactive in problem solving issues that impact your quality of life. For example, immediately, call 311 to clean-up graffiti, request pick up for illegal dumping or remove that abandoned vehicle on your street. Organize community volunteer clean-up operations for your neighborhood. A clean and maintained neighborhood helps deter criminal activity.
- Seek assistance from your area Senior Lead Officer and Community Police Advisory Board to help solve and monitor more difficult issues in your neighborhood.
- Organize Block Clubs or Neighborhood Watch Groups to keep your neighbors informed about what's going on in their community.
- Learn and share crime prevention tips with relatives and neighbors.
- And connect with local businesses and Government agencies for resources and support.
I hope this information will inspire you to take ownership and help make a difference in your community.
Your neighbor, Bernie Oliver |