The Observation Deck

Frank Murtaugh wrote:Requiring landlords to do do back-round checks is probably not realistic. We don't need bureaucrats involved in the rental of private property..

Many may not go for this idea, but why not mandatory classes for new residents(just renters??) on what it means to be a "good neighbor".

Perhaps we need to teach others on how to be a good neighbor: couches on the front porch are a 'no, no', loud music, parking cars on front lawn, pet issues(barking dogs and picking up after them), etc.

As we face the challenges discussed in this thread, here are my ten traps to avoid.

1. Dismissing "anectdotal", citizen reports out of hand. These reports have a basis in reality, and influence perception. Both reality and perception are important.

2. Ignoring baseline statistical data. Stats are easily manipulated and/or misinterpreted. Nevertheless, used carefully, they provide context and are vital to the formation of rational policies.

3. Rooting on politicians that make "no tax increase" pledges. This usually effective political strategy is a prescription for poor policy. Taking a partial and even necessary remedy off the table is unwise and ultimatley boxes in public officials who might eventually recognize the need for a tax increase.

4. Equating the "mistake" of action with the neglect of inaction. In the case of police force enhancement, erring on the side of doing more than is optimal, perhaps risking some squandering of finate resources, does not equate with the dangers of not acting in a timely and assertive fashion.

5. Letting the police chief/fire chief/planning director make public policy. The "generals" should always be respected and consulted. At the same time, too often politicians manage to avoid tough choices by letting administrators make policy-an abdication of leadership. For example, if the citizens of Lakewood decide, in their folk wisdom occasioned by their own experiences, a review of data, etc., , that they would be ready/willing and able to hire and train 22 new police officers, their view be given great weight.

As we face the challenges discussed in this thread, here are my ten traps to avoid

So where are the other five?

Jeff

Brewing....Remember the disappointment when your favorite episode of the Rockford Files came to "To be continued..."

Mandatory classes? I'm no lawyer, but that sounds mighty illegal to me.

I'd consider classes as adjunct to "bad neighbor"-type infractions (disturbing the peace, housing violations, Councilwoman Madigan's proposed 'slob law'). There's no way of mandating attendance at a class for new residents - how would you enforce that? What would happen if they skip it? There's a packet of information that Lakewood sent us when we bought our house - that would also be an appropriate vehicle for a list of 'good neighbor commandments'.

At the conclusion of the last City Council meeting, I asked how crime statistics are maintained in Lakewood. I was told that both the Police department and the Lakewood Municipal Court keep records and reports. I appreciate Councilman Fitzgerald and Mr. Salo responding to my request, and starting to bring forth some information. However, it is still a sketchy outline. Today I filed a Public Records request with the City, the Lakewood Municipal Court, and the Police Department for all crime statistics going back to 1995. I want to know who keeps the records, how they are maintained, what is included (or not included), and how they can be reviewed.

I think it is best to get a comprehensive overview of official statistics in order to continue any serious discussion of crime in Lakewood. I would call on Jim or anyone at LO to assist me in getting what might be extensive records on line.

Finally, it seems there are two simultaneous threads basically discussing crime in Lakewood. I propose that we kick this discussion over to the 'Crime in Lakewood' thread. Seems preetty obvious...