Meeting:
Committee of the Whole
Meeting Time:
May 10, 2021 at 6:00pm EDT
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I support a comprehensive approach to safety in Lakewood. I would like to see a plan developed that outlines the strategic deployment of technology, city employees, and community volunteers to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors. It should include both immediate action and long term vision.
I would like to know who is currently spearheading safety efforts? Who is responsible for communicating expectations and progress to the community? Does city hall have all the information and experience needed to develop a plan, or do we need to bring in outside expertise? Aside from public comment at meetings, are there mechanisms in place to encourage feedback and suggestions from the community?
My family took a walk to Lakewood Park Sunday, May 2nd around 5:30/6 PM. What I saw and what I didn't see were very alarming.
Below is the activity that I witnessed:
There were several groups smoking weed
There were several groups drinking alcohol; they were openly drinking out of beer cans
Two different groups had brought large speakers and playing loud music that had inappropriate language. The same groups starting verbally fighting (I believe over the music). One woman picked up a knife and was threatening to hurt a woman from the other group. While they were fighting there was a lot of profanity being used. I didn't stick around to see the outcome.
Cars were speeding in the parking lot
On the treehouse in the playground; a gentleman had a water gun and was spraying his children. There were way TOO many kids on the playground for that.
The park was PACKED!
Below is what I did NOT witness:
Police officers
With the recent events that seem to be happening weekly, the police need to be out in the streets and where the people are. From my understanding, there are 9 police officers in the city of Lakewood. Why weren't police officers present? They need to be present and visible. What are the police and Mayor Meghan doing to make sure that people within our community feel safe?
I support this streamlined approach of combining and bolstering existing resources with community-led action. What are the next steps? How can the community stay informed and get involved?