Approximately 30 community minded citizens attended the Community meeting at W.P. Bate School on November 3rd. Inspector Ballard, Central Division and Sgt. Borassa were in attendance and gave those in attendance an overview of what was happening in Central Division and in Meadowgreen in particular.
Inspector Ballard stated that there was a decrease in crime in Meadowgreen over the past five years 30%. In numbers that translates to 60 less violent crime calls and 120 less calls regarding property. This year-to-date we are at 20% less crime overall although there is a 13% increase in property crime and the city overall has seen an increase in stolen automobiles. As well there is an increase in willful damage to cars. The analysis of auto thefts it was noted that in 40% of the crimes the owners either left the car running or left a key hidden in the car. Inspector Ballard said it was clear regarding what we might do to reduce this crime - no cars left running unlocked and no keys left in a car no matter how well hidden. As well don't leave any valuables in the car including parking meter change. A tag was left with residents to put in their car window saying, " No valuables inside!"
Inspector Ballard also stated that while there is an increase in graffitti incidents it was because more people were reporting the incidences as well as the Police being more proactive in soliciting more information. It was noted that you can now report these types of incidences on-line at the police website. It was noted that if you get the license plate of someone speeding you are encouraged to call in the license plate. If this is an on-going event then speak to the traffic person - Sgt. Grant Obst. As well this is the same if you see someone talking on a cell phone or running a red light - note down the license plate and call it in to the Police at 975-8300.
Counsellor Lorje was also present at the meeting and community members talked about the condition of backalleys, crime in the walkway tunnels, crossing 22nd Street and the general increase in traffic on Witney Avenue and 20th Street.
The Community Association Annual Meeting was held and reports were given by executive members. Program Director Yvonne Boehr stated that Outdoor Soccer for children 3 to 10 years of age was successful with 55 kids in four different teams. The Housing Coordinator, Jerry Bartzen was not in attendance but he was responsible for reporting houses that needed to be tended to. Bob Roy, Community Watch sits on the Central Division Community Committee and reports community incidents to the Police. Peter Kozakavich was not present due to a health issue but ensured that the City approved the Bate Cairn and took good care of the Meadowgreen rink. Gordon Wensley, Vice President, said the community had its up and downs and that he was stepping down for younger blood to step up. Pat Tymchatyn, President, reported on the overall accomplishments of the Association for the past year including the highest attendance at the Community Fair with 603 people attending, a Community Clean-up event in the spring and the fact the W.P. Bate Cairn has actually been built in Dutchak Park and that we are waiting for the commemorative plaque to arrive from Edmonton.
Elections were held. The Executive for 2011-2011 is as follows:
President Pat Tymchatyn
Vice-President vacant
Civics Director Rina Veltkamp
Treasurer vacant
Secretary vacant
Community Watch Coordinator Bob Roy
Rink Coordinator Peter Kozakavich
Newsletter Editor Brad Peters
Program Director Yvonne Boehr
Housing Coordinator Director vacant
Newsletter Distribution Rosemari Wutke
Seniors Coordinator vacant
A call was put out for volunteers for the Community Fair and two people volunteered. If you wish to be involved in that committee please call Pat at 382-6514
Newsletter volunteers are needed for Ave Y and Witney Avenue.
The meeting ended at 9:00 p.m.
