For those of you who weren't able to join us at the public safety briefing, we wanted to provide a summary of the important things that were discussed during the meeting. We began by hearing from Nigel Swaby and Randy Shumway, who both have businesses in the area. Mr. Swaby explained that he has seen a significant uptick in homeless encampments and other criminal activities in the area. His concern is that not enough police attention is being directed at the issue.
This point was reiterated by Mr. Shumway. Much like many of you, he understands the nuances that are involved with homeless services and how law enforcement is often put in a difficult position. However, he feels the police response to the concerns of the neighborhood has been indifference and inaction. The individuals committing crimes have noticed the lack of police presence, which has emboldened them. Mr. Shumway is concerned that this unchecked behavior will escalate to violence.
Chief Redd explained that as Operation Rio Grande ended, the Utah Highway Patrol presence can no longer exist as it was before. Despite this, he believes it is important to ensure that the neighborhood does not regress. Chief Redd suggests that coordination and communication with SLCPD are essential, as this takes place in their jurisdiction. Chief Redd also spoke to the larger issues at hand for the individuals in the neighborhood: mental health issues, addiction, chronic homelessness. Chief Redd believes that there is value to be placed in seeking long-term solutions to the underlying issues of crime.
Chief Brown explained that many factors unique to this year have caused the decrease of presence in the neighborhood, primarily the protests downtown and lack of sufficient resources to police the city. Chief Brown announced that bike squads will be returning this Thursday, and noted that his department is seeing a decrease in violent and property crimes from last year. The uptick in crime can also be attributed to poor release planning from the jails. Chief Brown cited how some of the felony offenders are released after three hours. Chief Redd explained that many of the criminals are feeling further emboldened as community members call to defund police departments.
We opened up the floor for those at the meeting to ask the police chiefs questions. Some of the main takeaways from this Q&A is creating system-level change, that will do more than put a band-aid on the problem. This could manifest itself in implementing walking, and community policing patrols, involvement in the use of public space, effective partnerships between UHP and SLCPD. Others suggested that this system-level change can be aided by expanding affordable housing system, further research and studies, receiving centers, and alternatives to jail. The consensus among the community and the public safety officers is an understanding that these problems are much more than just crime, a real mental health crisis is at hand. However, to make a change at system-level, efficient, and effective communication is the priority. In the case of the Rio Grande Neighborhood, individualized and hands-on work is required to create a healthy and thriving environment for everyone.
This is just the start of our work to revitalize the Pioneer Park community, but we are incredibly thankful for the productive conversation that we were able to have. Chief Brown said, "I applaud the Pioneer Park Coalition for starting this conversation and bringing everyone to the table." He continued, "We all need to stay engaged and focused to solve the challenges facing our community." As we face a global pandemic, mental health crises, and much more, it is important to come together. We can do so much more together than alone.