If you’ve been following the development of Field Guide 2030, our community’s new strategic plan, you know that a central premise has been that almost everything in our community is related to everything else in our community in some way. Some bonds are stronger; some are weaker. We are connecting the dots.
So what should we take from this epiphany?
Well, I’m not exactly sure. But I do believe it is worth further study.
For example, we must ask ourselves whether public safety and economic development are related. Have you shopped at Kansas City’s Bannister Mall recently? Probably not. Due, in part, to public safety issues, the last store closed in 2007 and the 180-store mall was razed in 2009. When residents don’t feel safe going someplace, no matter where it is, it’s a problem.
Can we allow Springfield to obtain a similar reputation? No.
So what are we doing to combat our increasing crime rates? A lot.
First and foremost, we recognize, as do many of you, this is a community challenge and our Police Department cannot fix it alone.
The Springfield PD is currently reaching out to businesses and neighborhoods in an effort to engage our fellow residents to become part of the solution.
Our new Neighborhood Watch program has more requirements and is more intensive, thorough and educational than past programs. SPD staff developed and improved the program specifically for our community. This program is free. Just call us; connect a dot.
For businesses and nonprofit organizations, we have developed a Business Watch program similar to the neighborhood program. With the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design component, organizations receive an analysis of the facility, lighting and employee practices. Crimes can be prevented, and the safety of customers and employees increased, by making low-cost changes and improvements. This program helps identify these potential changes, and it is free. Just call us and connect a dot.
Police Chief Paul Williams reminds as that as long as Springfield continues to be a major illicit methamphetamine producer in this country (did you know the street name for meth around the country is “417”?), we are going to continue to have drug-related crime problems. How do you think meth addicts pay for their habit? Is it possible they take your stuff and sell it?
If you see or hear something suspicious, call 911, and connect a dot.
To access the free crime prevention services offered by the Springfield Police Department, just call (417) 874-2113 and make a request. It’s another way we are trying to connect the dots.
Give us a call.
Springfield City Manager Greg Burris can be reached at gburris@springfieldmo.gov.[[In-content Ad]]
