Columbia residents gathered at city hall Thursday evening to discuss the newest updates to the neighborhood watch program. There are now about 4,000 residents within the city limits that take part in the program.
Though there has been a sufficient increase since the start of the program, the city would like it to continue to grow. The goal is to heighten awareness of crime occurring in the community.
“It is very important that crime is reported,” Assistant Police Chief John Gordon said as he opened the meeting. “By calling in, we at least gather that data for service, and know that there is a problem there.”
Gordon and his team of police officers have introduced geographic policing. Officers monitor an area for at least one year, allowing them to get acquainted with the neighborhood, and for the residents to recognize another safe face.
“We did this because we want an open area concept,” Gordon says. “We want our officers approachable, it goes back to community policing. They’re our ambassadors in this community.”
Residents raised concerns about the city’s funding. A particular issue was the department’s new Lenco BearCat, a vehicle used to transport Columbia’s SWAT Team. Residents are concerned about the shortage of officers and noted the lack of funding to solve this issue. Gordon said the best way to keep the city safe is to evolve.
Rock Bridge resident, Jean Basthels is ready to do her part.
“If you get the neighbors to be more involved, I think it will be a good thing,” Basthels says. “People will be more observant. Nowadays people just come and go, and don’t see what’s going on anymore.”
There will be a training for new members of the neighborhood watch program on October 14th.