Councilman Tom Simplot and Councilman Claude Mattox
Arizona Republic My Turn News Column

February 2006

Community Involvement is Key to Crime Prevention

Living in Phoenix comes with many blessings.

We have a diverse population, full of cultural, social and political perspectives. We have world-renowned arts and sporting facilities. Most importantly, we have a vibrant and growing community that makes Phoenix one of the largest and most livable cities in the nation.

Unfortunately, just like any other city, there are also challenges. A city of this size will always face crime. Graffiti, theft, robbery, drug sales and abuse, and even violent crimes are a threat we are constantly working to reduce.

West Phoenix is one of the areas in which we are devoting many resources. The Violence Impact Project (VIP), between 19^th and 27^th avenues, from Indian School Road to Glendale Avenue, has caused a marked decrease in crime. The new West Phoenix Revitalization Program, covering a broader area, has focused much-needed city support on neighborhoods where blight, trash and graffiti are concerns.

Our gains are due in part to these priorities and efforts to address crime in struggling communities. The lion’s share of our ability to succeed, however, still rests with the most important part of crime prevention: our residents.

Crime affects all of us, regardless of background or where we live. That’s why this year, we are coming together to host a joint crime summit and address head-on the issues West Phoenix residents are dealing with every day.

Through a series of discussions, 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 4, attendees will be able to speak with elected officials and city staff about priorities for fighting crime and meeting your needs to make neighborhoods better. The event is in West Phoenix at the Carpenters Union Training Center, 4547 W. McDowell Road.

We are pleased that Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard and Phoenix Police Chief Jack Harris will be joining us. Both have played key roles in so many areas, including a recent City Council ordinance aimed at cutting down on the production of crystal methamphetamines. Also, a speaker from the Partnership for a Drug Free America will discuss how this volunteer-driven organization combats drug use in Arizona and elsewhere. Mayor Phil Gordon will help us finish the day and address citywide efforts.

Most importantly, you will be able to join in discussions about what you need to make your neighborhood safer and then we'll undertake the important process of brainstorming solutions. Crime summits over the past two years yielded wonderful results, including a new ordinance to cut down on loud parties, urban camping regulations and the crystal meth ordinances. The summits even helped form the idea of the West Phoenix Revitalization Program.

We will continue to fight crime throughout the city and hope to see you on Saturday. With your advice and suggestions, we can continue to make strides in reducing crime in your neighborhood.

Councilman Tom Simplot represents District 4 and Councilman Claude Mattox represents District 5. If you have any questions, contact the District 4 office at 602-262-7447 or e-mail council.district.4@phoenix.gov or the District 5 office at 602-262-7446 or council.district.5@phoenix.gov.