Our guest speaker for November will be Seattle Police Detective Suzanne Moore on Elder Abuse
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting for our guest speaker, please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Community Safety Meeting, Tuesday, Oct 19, 2010
Our new Precinct Captain, Steve Paulsen, is expected to attend the meeting. Many of you may remember Captain Paulsen when he served in the SW precinct prior to his move to the West Precinct.
Lt. James, will present the current crime stats for SW and information as to the crime trends in the City. Come discuss crime & nuisance hot spots with neighbors and police officers working in your area.
THE MEETING IS OPEN TO EVERYONE
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting for our guest speaker, please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Lt. James, will present the current crime stats for SW and information as to the crime trends in the City. Come discuss crime & nuisance hot spots with neighbors and police officers working in your area.
THE MEETING IS OPEN TO EVERYONE
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting for our guest speaker, please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Friday, July 16, 2010
Community Safety Meeting, Tuesday, Sept 21, 2010
Our guest speaker for September TBD.
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting for our guest speaker, please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting for our guest speaker, please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Monday, June 7, 2010
Community Safety Meeting, Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Our guest speaker for June will be Peter Holmes, Seattle City Attorney.
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting for our guest speaker, please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting for our guest speaker, please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Friday, May 28, 2010
WSCPC MINUTES MAY 18, 2010
The meeting was called to order at 7:00pm. The guest speaker, Lt. Woodrow Perkins, was introduced by Vice President, Richard Miller. Lt Perkins is employed in the enforcement division of the Washington State Liquor Control Board. This agency also consists of the Licensing Division and the Commercial Division.
The Liquor Control Board enforcement unit deals with tobacco, non retail sales, merchants, importers and wine makers and their own commercial outlets. Washington wines are featured in some stores.
This unit enforces a host of laws regarding alcohol sales. No sales to persons under 21, no sales to an apparently drunk person.
Lt. Perkins explained the licensing process. The first step is to decide what kind of an establishment you wish to open. The options are from full restaurant service to wine and beer with snacks. There is a variety of combinations including sports entertainment and gift shops.
Once this decision is made the next step is to make a formal written application to the Liquor Board. Each applicant is assigned a UVI Number.
Applications are investigated by a Liquor Board Employee. The applicant must supply the names of all partners having an interest in the business; his personal and criminal history as well as that of all other partners. A point system is used to evaluate the applicant. Eight or more points disqualify you for a license. The last 5 years of your history must be free of personal or criminal charges, etc.
A minimum of 60 to 90 days is required to process the application. Twenty days prior to the final hearing re the license, notices are sent to all agencies in the area of the business. Public posting of the application on the door or window of the business. All public institutions within 500 feet of the business are contacted. There is a period during which all objections to the license must be sent to the Liquor Board.
Once a license is obtained, the owner is obligated to do an on line briefing re alcohol and agree to follow the rules required by the State. Employees who actually mix drinks or pull alcoholic beverages must be over 21. They are required to attend a training seminar and become certified. Servers must be at least 18 years or older. They also must obtain a permit.
With regard to food service requirements, it will depend on what kind of a business you opt for before you apply for the license. This information is provided on the Liquor Control Board web site. A “good neighbor agreement” is hoped for from each establishment. Seattle has an ordinance which requires the licensee and local authorities to agree on certain rules for clubs to avoid problems with their neighbors. Public Safety is accentuated, License renewals can be delayed if these policies are not observed by the licensee.
The Enforcement Unit makes compliance checks for violations; sends undercover agents to investigate complaints. Fines of $500 and up, suspension of license for a two year period or a combination of fine and suspension. Cancellation of licenses may occur after a hearing.
A great deal of interest was shown by the audience and many questions were answered by Lt. Perkins.
POLICE REPORT:
LT James gave the police reports. Generally speaking car thefts have returned to about normal after some low months. Some of the worst offenders who were sentenced to long terms are now being released.
Armed robbery (2 in March, 5 in April) ; none seemed to be connected. Strong arm robbery (snatching of purses, ipods, etc) were down.
CAR PROWLS fall in a class by themselves. They have gone up steadily during the last three months. The police are asking that absolutely all car prowls be reported even if nothing is taken. February 87, March 97 and 124 in April were reported. The police are hoping for a a pattern to develop. The three things that make for good car prowl territory are: easy access, availability and opportunity. The 10 blocks between Spokane and California have been hit hardest. Car Prowls take place between dark and daylight.
Lt James said that people coming to the SW Precinct to report a crime and finding the building closed should use the phone outside to call 911. All dispatch of officers is from a central call center down town.
A concern was expressed that a neighborhood deli/grocery was holding a beer party on Sunday afternoon in their parking lot. David Stitt, Liquor Compliance Unit, said that it was a one time event to introduce some new brands of beer to his customers. David said he visited the business twice on Sunday and did not observe any violations. There will be a new sign ordinance limiting the size and number of alcohol signs in an establishment.
A man was murdered Thursday am at the Bartell's Drug Store on Roxbury. Lt James said this is gang related. Also the victim of this shooting was a man arrested last week for shoplifting in the liquor store on California.
CPT Officer, Jill Vanskike has been promoted and will be replaced by John Kihn who has been with the precinct for 3 plus years.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
High Point Neighborhood has formed a Peace and Safety Team to provide supervision during the summer. They need 120 who can volunteer 2 hours per month to fill the schedule.
Block Watch Captains Network will meet Tuesday, May 25th at 6 pm at the SW Precinct.
WSCPC will not meet during July and August. Dot Beard encouraged everyone to participate in Seattle's Night Out scheduled for August 3rd from 6 pm to 9 pm.
The annual SW Precinct Picnic will be August 21 from 1 pm to 4 pm. Food, beverages and entertainment will be provided on the public parking area on Webster Street. There will be a variety of police equipment and other activities for the public to tour.
The NEXT MEETING IS TUESDAY JUNE 15TH
The meeting was adjourned. Submitted by Betty Wiberg, Secretary
The Liquor Control Board enforcement unit deals with tobacco, non retail sales, merchants, importers and wine makers and their own commercial outlets. Washington wines are featured in some stores.
This unit enforces a host of laws regarding alcohol sales. No sales to persons under 21, no sales to an apparently drunk person.
Lt. Perkins explained the licensing process. The first step is to decide what kind of an establishment you wish to open. The options are from full restaurant service to wine and beer with snacks. There is a variety of combinations including sports entertainment and gift shops.
Once this decision is made the next step is to make a formal written application to the Liquor Board. Each applicant is assigned a UVI Number.
Applications are investigated by a Liquor Board Employee. The applicant must supply the names of all partners having an interest in the business; his personal and criminal history as well as that of all other partners. A point system is used to evaluate the applicant. Eight or more points disqualify you for a license. The last 5 years of your history must be free of personal or criminal charges, etc.
A minimum of 60 to 90 days is required to process the application. Twenty days prior to the final hearing re the license, notices are sent to all agencies in the area of the business. Public posting of the application on the door or window of the business. All public institutions within 500 feet of the business are contacted. There is a period during which all objections to the license must be sent to the Liquor Board.
Once a license is obtained, the owner is obligated to do an on line briefing re alcohol and agree to follow the rules required by the State. Employees who actually mix drinks or pull alcoholic beverages must be over 21. They are required to attend a training seminar and become certified. Servers must be at least 18 years or older. They also must obtain a permit.
With regard to food service requirements, it will depend on what kind of a business you opt for before you apply for the license. This information is provided on the Liquor Control Board web site. A “good neighbor agreement” is hoped for from each establishment. Seattle has an ordinance which requires the licensee and local authorities to agree on certain rules for clubs to avoid problems with their neighbors. Public Safety is accentuated, License renewals can be delayed if these policies are not observed by the licensee.
The Enforcement Unit makes compliance checks for violations; sends undercover agents to investigate complaints. Fines of $500 and up, suspension of license for a two year period or a combination of fine and suspension. Cancellation of licenses may occur after a hearing.
A great deal of interest was shown by the audience and many questions were answered by Lt. Perkins.
POLICE REPORT:
LT James gave the police reports. Generally speaking car thefts have returned to about normal after some low months. Some of the worst offenders who were sentenced to long terms are now being released.
Armed robbery (2 in March, 5 in April) ; none seemed to be connected. Strong arm robbery (snatching of purses, ipods, etc) were down.
CAR PROWLS fall in a class by themselves. They have gone up steadily during the last three months. The police are asking that absolutely all car prowls be reported even if nothing is taken. February 87, March 97 and 124 in April were reported. The police are hoping for a a pattern to develop. The three things that make for good car prowl territory are: easy access, availability and opportunity. The 10 blocks between Spokane and California have been hit hardest. Car Prowls take place between dark and daylight.
Lt James said that people coming to the SW Precinct to report a crime and finding the building closed should use the phone outside to call 911. All dispatch of officers is from a central call center down town.
A concern was expressed that a neighborhood deli/grocery was holding a beer party on Sunday afternoon in their parking lot. David Stitt, Liquor Compliance Unit, said that it was a one time event to introduce some new brands of beer to his customers. David said he visited the business twice on Sunday and did not observe any violations. There will be a new sign ordinance limiting the size and number of alcohol signs in an establishment.
A man was murdered Thursday am at the Bartell's Drug Store on Roxbury. Lt James said this is gang related. Also the victim of this shooting was a man arrested last week for shoplifting in the liquor store on California.
CPT Officer, Jill Vanskike has been promoted and will be replaced by John Kihn who has been with the precinct for 3 plus years.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
High Point Neighborhood has formed a Peace and Safety Team to provide supervision during the summer. They need 120 who can volunteer 2 hours per month to fill the schedule.
Block Watch Captains Network will meet Tuesday, May 25th at 6 pm at the SW Precinct.
WSCPC will not meet during July and August. Dot Beard encouraged everyone to participate in Seattle's Night Out scheduled for August 3rd from 6 pm to 9 pm.
The annual SW Precinct Picnic will be August 21 from 1 pm to 4 pm. Food, beverages and entertainment will be provided on the public parking area on Webster Street. There will be a variety of police equipment and other activities for the public to tour.
The NEXT MEETING IS TUESDAY JUNE 15TH
The meeting was adjourned. Submitted by Betty Wiberg, Secretary
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Help Save Crime Prevention Coordinators
West Seattle Crime Prevention Council is asking for your help in writing letters to help save the position of the Crime Prevention Coordinators.
Click on the image and it will enlarge in a new window.
Thank you
WSCPC
Click on the image and it will enlarge in a new window.
Thank you
WSCPC
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Community Safety Meeting, Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Our guest speaker for May will be Lt. Woodrow Perkins, Liquor Control Board
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Thursday, April 29, 2010
WSCPC MINUTES APRIL 19, 2010
The meeting called to order by president, Dorothy Beard. Greetings were extended to the members and guests. Each person was asked to give their name, residential area and/or occupation.
HOT SPOTS were presented by Lt. James, Operating Officer at the SW Precinct.
Generally speaking, the crime trend has continued to be the same with it having been a pretty quiet area during the past month. A couple of arrests in King County resulted in the solution to crimes committed in the Highland Park area.
A stolen laptop was located in Everett. It was armed with a low-jack system. When the police went to the home to investigate, the laptop's new owner told investigating officers that he had bought it on Graig's list. This information aided the officers in making an arrest and returning the laptop to its owner.
Car prowls have remained the same as last month.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
One person was concerned about gang activities in the High Point Area. Lt. James asked her to contact him and he would give her more information re her CPT officer.
Karen Berge gave an update on the status of the Block Watch Network and Facebook site. They had first meeting of this group and will be having another in the near future. At this time, the main purpose of the network is to help Block Watch Captains. Karen has put in many hours on this project, and of course, Block Watch Captains do a great deal to enhance safety in their areas.
Melody Sarkies and her neighbors were on hand to presented CPT officers, Kevin McDaniel, Adonis Topacio and Jill Vanskike and Mark Spadoni as well as Lt. James, with Mariners Tickets for the May 2 game. This was followed by cake and coffee and a short social time. It seemed to be enjoyed by all.
The NEXT MEETING IS TUESDAY, MAY 18, 2010.
Submitted by, Betty Wiberg, Secretary
HOT SPOTS were presented by Lt. James, Operating Officer at the SW Precinct.
Generally speaking, the crime trend has continued to be the same with it having been a pretty quiet area during the past month. A couple of arrests in King County resulted in the solution to crimes committed in the Highland Park area.
A stolen laptop was located in Everett. It was armed with a low-jack system. When the police went to the home to investigate, the laptop's new owner told investigating officers that he had bought it on Graig's list. This information aided the officers in making an arrest and returning the laptop to its owner.
Car prowls have remained the same as last month.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
One person was concerned about gang activities in the High Point Area. Lt. James asked her to contact him and he would give her more information re her CPT officer.
Karen Berge gave an update on the status of the Block Watch Network and Facebook site. They had first meeting of this group and will be having another in the near future. At this time, the main purpose of the network is to help Block Watch Captains. Karen has put in many hours on this project, and of course, Block Watch Captains do a great deal to enhance safety in their areas.
Melody Sarkies and her neighbors were on hand to presented CPT officers, Kevin McDaniel, Adonis Topacio and Jill Vanskike and Mark Spadoni as well as Lt. James, with Mariners Tickets for the May 2 game. This was followed by cake and coffee and a short social time. It seemed to be enjoyed by all.
The NEXT MEETING IS TUESDAY, MAY 18, 2010.
Submitted by, Betty Wiberg, Secretary
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Community Safety Meeting, MONDAY, APRIL 19, 2010
IT HAS BEEN NECESSARY TO CHANGE OUR APRIL MEETING TO MONDAY, APRIL 19. WE HOPE THIS WILL NOT BE TOO INCONVENIENT.
Several new officers have been assigned to the Southwest Police Precinct. They will be attending the April 19 meeting. This is a great opportunity to meet your new Operations Officer, Lt. Norm James and the new CPT officer for your sector.
Lt. James will also address the safety issues that matter most to you. Come discuss crime & nuisance hot spots with neighbors and police officers working in your area.
THE MEETING IS OPEN TO EVERYONE. For more information contact WSCPC at westseattleCPC@gmail.com
Several new officers have been assigned to the Southwest Police Precinct. They will be attending the April 19 meeting. This is a great opportunity to meet your new Operations Officer, Lt. Norm James and the new CPT officer for your sector.
Lt. James will also address the safety issues that matter most to you. Come discuss crime & nuisance hot spots with neighbors and police officers working in your area.
THE MEETING IS OPEN TO EVERYONE. For more information contact WSCPC at westseattleCPC@gmail.com
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
WSCPC MINUTES MARCH 16, 2010
The meeting called to order by president, Dorothy Beard. Greetings were extended to the members and guests. Each person was asked to give their name, residential area and/or occupation.
HOT SPOTS were presented by Lt. James, Operating Officer at the SW Precinct.
Generally speaking, the crime trend has continued downward with slight up and downs. Every Tuesday Lt. James attends a city/county wide discussion of crime situation county wide. A number of arrests in the Bellevue area have resulted in lower crime rates, Criminals are very mobile and can be driven to another area by increased police presence and community alertness.
Calls to 911 indicates that the most calls concern suspicious persons and disturbance. These are followed by traffic accidents, moving violations and calls to assist the public. Complaints regarding parking violations. For an unknown reason armed robberies have ceased at this time.
Auto theft cases have gone down. Because the King County Prosecutor has made a push to arrest the culprits who seem to be behind most of these crimes and to get longer sentences. To do this the prosecutor bundles all cases attributed to one person and try them together. The combining of the time or each crime makes for longer sentences. Taking these criminals out of circulation makes your car safer.
Car prowls have dropped 20 percent during the past month. Car prowls can be associated with home burglaries. Both seem to be a matter of opportunity. Some helpful hints: DONT LEAVE
ANYTHING IN YOUR CAR INCLUDING THE GARAGE DOOR OPENER. Additionally, lock all the doors to your house even when you are in the yard. Lock your car doors.
A current case involving the burglary of medical billing office and the theft of personal information is being investigated at this time. Lt. James advised that everyone should keep close tabs on credit card charges and bank action. Identity theft is a real possibility in this kind of burglary. Once a thief has your information, they act quickly to steal from your accounts. The Fraud Unit is in charge of identity their cases.
A large number of home burglaries have been committed in Highland Park in recent weeks. Most home robberies occur during daylight hours. In response to this, the department has increased the visibility of officers in neighborhoods and are working with neighborhoods to increase their alertness to suspicious persons or activities. More evidence is being taken from the scenes. Several cases have been solved with DNA evidence.
It is difficult to return stolen items to their proper owners if they can be identified. Keep serial numbers and also mark your electronic items.
A question and answer period followed. Many of the people have been robbed in the past.
PROGRAM: Benjamin Kinlow, SW Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator, presented information regarding the crime prevention program. This was started by the Seattle Police Department in the 1970's. The idea was to encourage citizens to work together with the police to create safer neighborhoods. Seattle Night Out was created at that time. Today these coordinators organize communities into block watch groups with a captain. The coordinator helps the block watch captain with meeting with their neighbors and providing helpful information for having a safe, clean community.
Mr. Kinlow urged people to call 911 whenever they have a problem or feel something is not right. He advised that some operators can try to put you off--Don't back down on the reason you are calling. Be firm in reporting events. He also advised that we be alert to cars just driving through an area. Forty percent burglars enter the home through unlocked and unsecured windows, doors, etc. Forced entry seems to be the occur in areas where neighborhoods are organized. When we make it harder for the criminal to gain entrance into a building, they move on. After a robbery, the neighborhoods are alerted with burglary alert fliers. The fliers contain information about community awareness and the organization of block watch groups. There has been a great response.
Benjamin Kinlow did not speak to this matter, but due to lack of funding crime prevention coordinators may become another thing of the past. It is hoped that people will write to the mayor and the city council to reconsider the budget and try to keep this program and the dedicated workers working with the public. People are urged to write letters and mail them to these officials. They get too many emails.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS: The audience was reminded of our new blog www.wscpc.org where they can read the minutes, make comments and suggestions. We hope to include more information about the community including the West Seattle Blockwatch Captains Network on Facebook.
The issue of two vacant houses on North Delridge. They are located across from Super 24 on the east side of the street. Officer McDaniel said he was unaware of these houses and asked for the information to be sent to him. He will check those house asap.
The meeting was adjourned. THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE TUESDAY, APRIL 20.
Submitted by, Betty Wiberg, Secretary
HOT SPOTS were presented by Lt. James, Operating Officer at the SW Precinct.
Generally speaking, the crime trend has continued downward with slight up and downs. Every Tuesday Lt. James attends a city/county wide discussion of crime situation county wide. A number of arrests in the Bellevue area have resulted in lower crime rates, Criminals are very mobile and can be driven to another area by increased police presence and community alertness.
Calls to 911 indicates that the most calls concern suspicious persons and disturbance. These are followed by traffic accidents, moving violations and calls to assist the public. Complaints regarding parking violations. For an unknown reason armed robberies have ceased at this time.
Auto theft cases have gone down. Because the King County Prosecutor has made a push to arrest the culprits who seem to be behind most of these crimes and to get longer sentences. To do this the prosecutor bundles all cases attributed to one person and try them together. The combining of the time or each crime makes for longer sentences. Taking these criminals out of circulation makes your car safer.
Car prowls have dropped 20 percent during the past month. Car prowls can be associated with home burglaries. Both seem to be a matter of opportunity. Some helpful hints: DONT LEAVE
ANYTHING IN YOUR CAR INCLUDING THE GARAGE DOOR OPENER. Additionally, lock all the doors to your house even when you are in the yard. Lock your car doors.
A current case involving the burglary of medical billing office and the theft of personal information is being investigated at this time. Lt. James advised that everyone should keep close tabs on credit card charges and bank action. Identity theft is a real possibility in this kind of burglary. Once a thief has your information, they act quickly to steal from your accounts. The Fraud Unit is in charge of identity their cases.
A large number of home burglaries have been committed in Highland Park in recent weeks. Most home robberies occur during daylight hours. In response to this, the department has increased the visibility of officers in neighborhoods and are working with neighborhoods to increase their alertness to suspicious persons or activities. More evidence is being taken from the scenes. Several cases have been solved with DNA evidence.
It is difficult to return stolen items to their proper owners if they can be identified. Keep serial numbers and also mark your electronic items.
A question and answer period followed. Many of the people have been robbed in the past.
PROGRAM: Benjamin Kinlow, SW Precinct Crime Prevention Coordinator, presented information regarding the crime prevention program. This was started by the Seattle Police Department in the 1970's. The idea was to encourage citizens to work together with the police to create safer neighborhoods. Seattle Night Out was created at that time. Today these coordinators organize communities into block watch groups with a captain. The coordinator helps the block watch captain with meeting with their neighbors and providing helpful information for having a safe, clean community.
Mr. Kinlow urged people to call 911 whenever they have a problem or feel something is not right. He advised that some operators can try to put you off--Don't back down on the reason you are calling. Be firm in reporting events. He also advised that we be alert to cars just driving through an area. Forty percent burglars enter the home through unlocked and unsecured windows, doors, etc. Forced entry seems to be the occur in areas where neighborhoods are organized. When we make it harder for the criminal to gain entrance into a building, they move on. After a robbery, the neighborhoods are alerted with burglary alert fliers. The fliers contain information about community awareness and the organization of block watch groups. There has been a great response.
Benjamin Kinlow did not speak to this matter, but due to lack of funding crime prevention coordinators may become another thing of the past. It is hoped that people will write to the mayor and the city council to reconsider the budget and try to keep this program and the dedicated workers working with the public. People are urged to write letters and mail them to these officials. They get too many emails.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS: The audience was reminded of our new blog www.wscpc.org where they can read the minutes, make comments and suggestions. We hope to include more information about the community including the West Seattle Blockwatch Captains Network on Facebook.
The issue of two vacant houses on North Delridge. They are located across from Super 24 on the east side of the street. Officer McDaniel said he was unaware of these houses and asked for the information to be sent to him. He will check those house asap.
The meeting was adjourned. THE NEXT MEETING WILL BE TUESDAY, APRIL 20.
Submitted by, Betty Wiberg, Secretary
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Community Safety Meeting, Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Our speaker in March will be Benjamin Kinlow, Crime Prevention Coordinator for the SW Precinct. He will be speaking about the history of Seattle's Community Crime Prevention Programs including the organization of Block Watch Captains. He will also speak to the current state of the program. If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Friday, February 26, 2010
WSCPC MINUTES FEBRUARY 16, 2010
The meeting was opened at 7:00 pm by the President, Dorothy Beard. She welcomed everyone and had each person give their name and home location.
Karen White, guest speaker of the evening, was introduced. Ms White is a code enforcement manager for the Seattle Department of Planning and Development. The Code Enforcement department responds to complaints. They do not search neighborhoods for code violations. They depend on residents to report problems. There are many levels of dealing with violations. The most severe end up in the courts. They attempt to work with property owners to solve problems before they reach the point of legal steps.
Everything that the code enforcement department can do is defined in city codes. For example, the city requires that all vacant buildings be secured. In fact the owner must make the building secure enough to keep people out. The owner can hire someone to do this job or the city will do it and bill the owner. These can become liens against the property.
The process begins with investigation of the complaint. A code enforcement worker will contact the property owner/tenant to let them know that a violation has occurred. If the issue is new, they will receive a warning. If they have had prior problems the code enforcement office will get more aggressive including fines. If the problem remains unsolved, more legal action will be taken.
Fixing a problem is not always permanent. It may come back. She advised that people keep reporting problems even if it seems hopeless for a longterm correction of violations. Ms White also explained that owner occupied properties are harder to work with than rentals. It is not considered good form to actually cause a person to lose their home.
Typical complaints include junk stored in yards; vacant buildings not secured; blocked sidewalks and driveways.
Some complaints are not under the code enforcement office; ie; the solid waste dept deals with overflowing dumpsters. Seattle Police Dept and Parks and Recreation Dept deals with complaints about violations on public property. Code Enforcement does work with other agencies to help them solve problems on public properties.
Questions were asked by several people about telephone calls. Someone in the department will answer the phone if you call during regular business hours. Most of the inspectors may be out in the field, but will call back as soon as possible. They are in the office for some hours each week to do reports.
The department web site is very good. Ms. White recommended making reports via the web. You can also look up addresses to see if a violation has already been reported. Other information available is the name of the inspector on the case. A summary of the situation is also available. The web site is www.seattle.gov/dpd.
A complaint can be filed via e-mail. However, please telephone if you want to make an anonymous complaint.
A final question about the worst problems brought the answer “BEDBUGS”. They seem to be very hard to kill, but will die if they are exposed to the heat of a dryer. Perhaps a hairdryer would work on large items that can not be put in the dryer.
A number of cities have a problem due to a large number of foreclosed properties. Once a bank takes over, it seems to skip yard maintenance, etc. A great deal of trash floats into the property. Sometimes the solution to this problem can take a long time. Fortunately, Seattle has not had many of these problems.
Two people reported that they have been filing complaints for six years regarding a owner occupied property. The property has no utilities, the water has been shut off. According to Ms. White, home owners can live this way. Renters have protections. Even family members have not been able to convince this woman to clean up her home. Several examples of cases were given the the department have investigated. Sometimes Adult Protective Services are called regarding these cases. The economic circumstance of an individual is often the problem. The only punishment the code enforcement dept has is to apply high fines. Once again Ms White emphasized that causing someone to lose their home made it very difficult to solve code violations on owner occupied properties.
One person asked what a resident can do himself to improve someone else's property. For example clip vegetation growing over the sidewalk. Probably okay to clip plants growing on sidewalks and in alleys; public right-or-ways.
Lt. James gave the statistics for crimes in the SW Precinct. He compared February figures with January of 2010. However, the statistics are also available comparing previous years, month by month or year by year.
ARMED ROBBERIES were up from Jan (2) to Feb (7). There were a series of “patterned” robberies in which mini marts were targeted. All involved three suspects, one with a gun. No arrests have been made. The police are doing surveillance on the mini marts in this precinct. There have been no patterned robberies for the last two weeks.
STRONG ARM ROBBERIES are up slightly from January. This is true all over the SW precinct.
RESIDENTIAL ROBBERIES were down from January (64) to February (58). Eight burglary arrests were made (4 adults and 4 juveniles) during the past month. One block of 37th SW near Admiral had 7 break-ins. No arrests in connection with those have been made.
As usual the things taken are small to medium electronics (flat screen tvs, laptops, stereos, cd players, and computers) and of course, cash and guns.
NON RESIDENTIAL BURGLARIES are down in February (13) from January (17). It would seem that the culprits have been arrested or moved to a different area.
AUTO THEFTS were down in February (35) from January (42). One car with a tracking device stolen in Renton led to a home in South Park where the police found two cars plus a large amount of other stolen items including guns. Now the police are busy trying to locate the owners of the items retrieved from this house.
CAR PROWLS up in February (77) from January (71). Three junveniles were arrested in South Park for an attempted car prowl. Many car prowls go unreported if nothing was taken. However, it is important to the police to have all such incidences reported. Often a pattern is found and it is easier to find the culprits.
The 8300 block of 7th South is a particular busy area. Once again Honda's are the favorite. Many are abandoned and found.
Officer Vanskike reported that mail was being stolen in some areas. Arbor Heights was mentioned. Officer Vanskike advised that if you must put outgoing mail in your box it would be wise to NOT put the flag up. If possible give out going mail to the postman/woman or take it to the post office.
All crimes should be reported. Mail theft is a federal offense. When patterns develop they can often be connected to known criminals.
LIQUOR LICENSE VIOLATIONS. One establishment was reported, but the complaint had mostly to do with loud music rather than selling beverages.
Crime is up city wide. Engraving or marking your property is a very good way to assure that your property may be returned when it is found. Lots of stolen property ends up on Craig's List.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
West Seattle Crime Prevention Council has a new web site where the minutes of the meetings and other news of interest to the group will be posted. It also gives an opportunity for the individual to make comments and suggestions. The site is www.wscpc.org.
The president announced that the Police Precinct Picnic would be August 14. It is a great event and a good chance to meet the officers. Also the president expressed the appreciation of the officers felt by the group.
WEST SEATTLE BLOCKWATCH CAPTAINS NETWORK. One of the Blockwatch Captains in the SW Precinct announced that she has met with a number of other captains and they are going to start FACEBOOK site where all Blockwatch Captains may network with each other. If you wish to be part of this, check the West Seattle Blog for the link.
There is also a web site for WS Prepared Group. The group generally agreed that more communication is important.
The next meeting will be Tuesday, March 16, 2010.
The meeting was ajourned at 8:30 pm. Submitted by Betty Wiberg, Secretary
Karen White, guest speaker of the evening, was introduced. Ms White is a code enforcement manager for the Seattle Department of Planning and Development. The Code Enforcement department responds to complaints. They do not search neighborhoods for code violations. They depend on residents to report problems. There are many levels of dealing with violations. The most severe end up in the courts. They attempt to work with property owners to solve problems before they reach the point of legal steps.
Everything that the code enforcement department can do is defined in city codes. For example, the city requires that all vacant buildings be secured. In fact the owner must make the building secure enough to keep people out. The owner can hire someone to do this job or the city will do it and bill the owner. These can become liens against the property.
The process begins with investigation of the complaint. A code enforcement worker will contact the property owner/tenant to let them know that a violation has occurred. If the issue is new, they will receive a warning. If they have had prior problems the code enforcement office will get more aggressive including fines. If the problem remains unsolved, more legal action will be taken.
Fixing a problem is not always permanent. It may come back. She advised that people keep reporting problems even if it seems hopeless for a longterm correction of violations. Ms White also explained that owner occupied properties are harder to work with than rentals. It is not considered good form to actually cause a person to lose their home.
Typical complaints include junk stored in yards; vacant buildings not secured; blocked sidewalks and driveways.
Some complaints are not under the code enforcement office; ie; the solid waste dept deals with overflowing dumpsters. Seattle Police Dept and Parks and Recreation Dept deals with complaints about violations on public property. Code Enforcement does work with other agencies to help them solve problems on public properties.
Questions were asked by several people about telephone calls. Someone in the department will answer the phone if you call during regular business hours. Most of the inspectors may be out in the field, but will call back as soon as possible. They are in the office for some hours each week to do reports.
The department web site is very good. Ms. White recommended making reports via the web. You can also look up addresses to see if a violation has already been reported. Other information available is the name of the inspector on the case. A summary of the situation is also available. The web site is www.seattle.gov/dpd.
A complaint can be filed via e-mail. However, please telephone if you want to make an anonymous complaint.
A final question about the worst problems brought the answer “BEDBUGS”. They seem to be very hard to kill, but will die if they are exposed to the heat of a dryer. Perhaps a hairdryer would work on large items that can not be put in the dryer.
A number of cities have a problem due to a large number of foreclosed properties. Once a bank takes over, it seems to skip yard maintenance, etc. A great deal of trash floats into the property. Sometimes the solution to this problem can take a long time. Fortunately, Seattle has not had many of these problems.
Two people reported that they have been filing complaints for six years regarding a owner occupied property. The property has no utilities, the water has been shut off. According to Ms. White, home owners can live this way. Renters have protections. Even family members have not been able to convince this woman to clean up her home. Several examples of cases were given the the department have investigated. Sometimes Adult Protective Services are called regarding these cases. The economic circumstance of an individual is often the problem. The only punishment the code enforcement dept has is to apply high fines. Once again Ms White emphasized that causing someone to lose their home made it very difficult to solve code violations on owner occupied properties.
One person asked what a resident can do himself to improve someone else's property. For example clip vegetation growing over the sidewalk. Probably okay to clip plants growing on sidewalks and in alleys; public right-or-ways.
Lt. James gave the statistics for crimes in the SW Precinct. He compared February figures with January of 2010. However, the statistics are also available comparing previous years, month by month or year by year.
ARMED ROBBERIES were up from Jan (2) to Feb (7). There were a series of “patterned” robberies in which mini marts were targeted. All involved three suspects, one with a gun. No arrests have been made. The police are doing surveillance on the mini marts in this precinct. There have been no patterned robberies for the last two weeks.
STRONG ARM ROBBERIES are up slightly from January. This is true all over the SW precinct.
RESIDENTIAL ROBBERIES were down from January (64) to February (58). Eight burglary arrests were made (4 adults and 4 juveniles) during the past month. One block of 37th SW near Admiral had 7 break-ins. No arrests in connection with those have been made.
As usual the things taken are small to medium electronics (flat screen tvs, laptops, stereos, cd players, and computers) and of course, cash and guns.
NON RESIDENTIAL BURGLARIES are down in February (13) from January (17). It would seem that the culprits have been arrested or moved to a different area.
AUTO THEFTS were down in February (35) from January (42). One car with a tracking device stolen in Renton led to a home in South Park where the police found two cars plus a large amount of other stolen items including guns. Now the police are busy trying to locate the owners of the items retrieved from this house.
CAR PROWLS up in February (77) from January (71). Three junveniles were arrested in South Park for an attempted car prowl. Many car prowls go unreported if nothing was taken. However, it is important to the police to have all such incidences reported. Often a pattern is found and it is easier to find the culprits.
The 8300 block of 7th South is a particular busy area. Once again Honda's are the favorite. Many are abandoned and found.
Officer Vanskike reported that mail was being stolen in some areas. Arbor Heights was mentioned. Officer Vanskike advised that if you must put outgoing mail in your box it would be wise to NOT put the flag up. If possible give out going mail to the postman/woman or take it to the post office.
All crimes should be reported. Mail theft is a federal offense. When patterns develop they can often be connected to known criminals.
LIQUOR LICENSE VIOLATIONS. One establishment was reported, but the complaint had mostly to do with loud music rather than selling beverages.
Crime is up city wide. Engraving or marking your property is a very good way to assure that your property may be returned when it is found. Lots of stolen property ends up on Craig's List.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS:
West Seattle Crime Prevention Council has a new web site where the minutes of the meetings and other news of interest to the group will be posted. It also gives an opportunity for the individual to make comments and suggestions. The site is www.wscpc.org.
The president announced that the Police Precinct Picnic would be August 14. It is a great event and a good chance to meet the officers. Also the president expressed the appreciation of the officers felt by the group.
WEST SEATTLE BLOCKWATCH CAPTAINS NETWORK. One of the Blockwatch Captains in the SW Precinct announced that she has met with a number of other captains and they are going to start FACEBOOK site where all Blockwatch Captains may network with each other. If you wish to be part of this, check the West Seattle Blog for the link.
There is also a web site for WS Prepared Group. The group generally agreed that more communication is important.
The next meeting will be Tuesday, March 16, 2010.
The meeting was ajourned at 8:30 pm. Submitted by Betty Wiberg, Secretary
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Community Safety Meeting, Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Our speaker in February will be Karen White from the Department of Planning and Development. Her area is Code Compliance and includes working with neighborhoods to rid the area of nuisance properties, especially abandoned houses and business buildings. If you would like to submit questions in advance of the meeting please do so in an e-mail to westseattlecpc@gmail.com
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
WSCPC MINUTES JANUARY 19, 2010
The meeting was opened by Dorothy Beard, President, who extended greetings and special welcome to the new people assigned to the SW Precinct. Each person introduced themselves.
Lt Steven Paulsen introduced his replacement, Lt Norman James. Lt James replaces Paulsen as Operations Officer. Officer James is a 41 year veteran of the SPD. Lt Paulsen has been reassigned to the West Precinct.
John McGoodman is replacing Beth Gappert, as the City Attorney's precinct liaison with the SW Precinct. He will be at the SW Precinct two days a week. He may also attend future WSCPC meetings.
Officer Jill Vanskike is a new member of the Community Police Team. She will work in the South Park Area. Officer Vanskike has been with SPD for 14 years.
Officer Davis of the SPD's Traffic Unit spoke to the subject of Red Light Cameras. He explained the procedure followed from the time a picture is taken until a ticket is issued. A complete review of every picture is done before a final decision is made as to issuing a ticket to red light violators. One thousand plus tickets have been issued from each of the two cameras in West Seattle (35th and Thistle and 35th and Avalon). Tickets should arrive in about of a week after you are caught on camera.
Officer Davis answered questions form the audience. A lively discussion about neighborhood problems with speeding in residential areas.
HOTSPOTS REPORT: Officer James, who has worked in this precinct before, presented stats re armed robberies, strong-arm robberies, etc. Aggravated assaults and disturbances on the streets were up in December. Lot more parties going on which leads to drinking and fighting.
The Alaska Junction is one of the current hot spots. Residential Burglaries were up in December. They apprehended three individuals who were responsible for ¼ of these crimes. Sharp-eyed residents were responsible for lots of arrests.
Non residential burglaries were up; thief of autos was up. High Point is a case in point due to the large number of cars parked on the streets. Car prowls were down.
One individual asked if finger prints from residential burglaries are compared. He felt that if the prints found at his home were the same as the ones found in a neighbor's home, then he would be able to identify the culprit. Lt. James said that all prints are entered in the data base even if they cannot be matched at that time. Eventually, they will match in another crime. Shoe prints and other trace evidence are also entered into the data base.
Murder is down in Seattle. Graffiti is down the last couple of weeks. One prolific person was arrested and is now at Western State Hospital. Some increase on 16th from Roxberry south. Lt. James indicated that there is more activity at 4 a.m. between gangs having a face off. We do have an ordinance that requires that graffiti is painted out within 24 hours.
Shelly made a complaint about a 911 operator. Several others also indicated less than good feelings about 911 operators. Larry asked about parking rules in regard to parking the wrong direction at the curb. He has received several tickets.
To determine if crimes are up or down, the statistics are compared month to month and year to year. Crime statistics are available on line, by census tract.
Lt Steve Paulsen thanked the group for the community support . This has really helped them survive a very difficult period when so many of the officers were killed. He also said that he is not sure what his new duties will be in the West Precinct.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS. Richard Miller presented the slate: Dorothy Beard, President; Richard Miller, Vice President; and Betty Wiberg, Secretary-Treasurer. This slate was elected by unanimous vote of the group.
Shane Marr, Shell Marr and Larry Ruda were elected to the Executive Board as members at large.
NEXT MEETING: February 16th, 2010.
The meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Betty Wiberg, Secretary
Lt Steven Paulsen introduced his replacement, Lt Norman James. Lt James replaces Paulsen as Operations Officer. Officer James is a 41 year veteran of the SPD. Lt Paulsen has been reassigned to the West Precinct.
John McGoodman is replacing Beth Gappert, as the City Attorney's precinct liaison with the SW Precinct. He will be at the SW Precinct two days a week. He may also attend future WSCPC meetings.
Officer Jill Vanskike is a new member of the Community Police Team. She will work in the South Park Area. Officer Vanskike has been with SPD for 14 years.
Officer Davis of the SPD's Traffic Unit spoke to the subject of Red Light Cameras. He explained the procedure followed from the time a picture is taken until a ticket is issued. A complete review of every picture is done before a final decision is made as to issuing a ticket to red light violators. One thousand plus tickets have been issued from each of the two cameras in West Seattle (35th and Thistle and 35th and Avalon). Tickets should arrive in about of a week after you are caught on camera.
Officer Davis answered questions form the audience. A lively discussion about neighborhood problems with speeding in residential areas.
HOTSPOTS REPORT: Officer James, who has worked in this precinct before, presented stats re armed robberies, strong-arm robberies, etc. Aggravated assaults and disturbances on the streets were up in December. Lot more parties going on which leads to drinking and fighting.
The Alaska Junction is one of the current hot spots. Residential Burglaries were up in December. They apprehended three individuals who were responsible for ¼ of these crimes. Sharp-eyed residents were responsible for lots of arrests.
Non residential burglaries were up; thief of autos was up. High Point is a case in point due to the large number of cars parked on the streets. Car prowls were down.
One individual asked if finger prints from residential burglaries are compared. He felt that if the prints found at his home were the same as the ones found in a neighbor's home, then he would be able to identify the culprit. Lt. James said that all prints are entered in the data base even if they cannot be matched at that time. Eventually, they will match in another crime. Shoe prints and other trace evidence are also entered into the data base.
Murder is down in Seattle. Graffiti is down the last couple of weeks. One prolific person was arrested and is now at Western State Hospital. Some increase on 16th from Roxberry south. Lt. James indicated that there is more activity at 4 a.m. between gangs having a face off. We do have an ordinance that requires that graffiti is painted out within 24 hours.
Shelly made a complaint about a 911 operator. Several others also indicated less than good feelings about 911 operators. Larry asked about parking rules in regard to parking the wrong direction at the curb. He has received several tickets.
To determine if crimes are up or down, the statistics are compared month to month and year to year. Crime statistics are available on line, by census tract.
Lt Steve Paulsen thanked the group for the community support . This has really helped them survive a very difficult period when so many of the officers were killed. He also said that he is not sure what his new duties will be in the West Precinct.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS. Richard Miller presented the slate: Dorothy Beard, President; Richard Miller, Vice President; and Betty Wiberg, Secretary-Treasurer. This slate was elected by unanimous vote of the group.
Shane Marr, Shell Marr and Larry Ruda were elected to the Executive Board as members at large.
NEXT MEETING: February 16th, 2010.
The meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Betty Wiberg, Secretary
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