Mott Park group discusses crime

The Mott Park Neighborhood Association Nov. 19 reviewed its neighborhood revitalization and community watch plans, heard from Councilman Sheldon Neeley (6th Ward) and elected officers for 2011.

Ron Kahler, neighborhood watch committee chairman, reported six arrests in the area.

"The best approach is to look out for your neighbor," Kahler said. "Consider yourself on patrol and be prepared to describe what you see. Take a picture with your cell phone."

Kahler said his group is investigating a text alert system that is connected to a police scanner and notifies neighbors of possible criminal activity.

Neeley also talked about crime.

"Crime is running rampant," Neeley said, in the wake of more public safety layoffs.

He encouraged members to secure their property and protect their homes.

"Kettering University police officers will still be covering this area," Neeley said. "But the downtown police station will be closed from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m."

Neeley reported that a security camera has been placed at the intersection of DuPont and Stevenson streets with hopes that it will be a crime deterrent. He also said that soon Flint Most Wanted Criminals posters would be available.

Neeley also commented on the Genesee Towers litigation that ended with Flint taxpayers having to foot a $6 million bill.

"You will see a line item on your winter tax bills for about .007 percent of the taxable value of your property," he said.

Neeley said he is working on legislation that provides a payback to the taxpayers if the building is sold.

The councilman also warned of upcoming water shutoffs for residents with bills more than $100 who are more than 30 days late on their payments.

Neeley asked the group to begin to plan for a use for the former Mott Park Golf Course. "We've lost the greens," Neeley said. "Vandals destroyed parts of the clubhouse and the property will not be leased under the current administration. We've got to come up with a plan to use the land," he said.

He added that free smoke and carbon monoxide detectors would be available for senior citizens.

Susan Burhans reviewed the progress of the neighborhood revitalization committee saying that a formal procedure will be available soon for members to report nuisance or blight.

"This takes the pressure off citizens who may fear retaliation," Burhans said.

Chris Monk was elected president replacing Burhans who cited family responsibilities as the reason for not seeking another term in office. Monk previously led the organization for seven years, ending her tenure in 2006.

The group also re-elected Sandra McKellar as treasurer.

The group will next meet in February.

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