I have been a proud homeowner in Oak Park for 33 years. I strongly support our police department, but they cannot be everywhere. I am concerned, as I am sure others are, about the increasing crime in our community, especially of a violent nature. I am thinking it might be time for an active Neighborhood Watch program, possibly including foot patrols. I do not intend this proposal to create vigilantes or act as law enforcement but merely to have concerned citizens work with the police to deter and react to crimes. I think the fact that there are citizens watching may be deterrent enough. I honestly do not know if this already exists in the village or not. If it does, then I think residents should get the details. If not, let’s start it. We should not be passive about the increasing criminal activity.
Larry Passo
Oak Park