TO:
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
THROUGH:
Talyn Mirzakhanian, Acting City Manager
FROM:
Rachel Johnson, Chief of Police
Kelly Benjamin, Police Lieutenant
Andy Abreu, Police Sergeant
SUBJECT:Title
Discussion on the City's Neighborhood Watch Program (Police Chief Johnson).
(Estimated Time: 30 Mins.)
DISCUSS AND PROVIDE DIRECTION
Body
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RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council receive the report and discuss and provide direction on next steps, if any.?
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
There are no fiscal implications associated with the recommended action at this time.
BACKGROUND:
On September 3, 2024, the Manhattan Beach City Council directed staff to provide information regarding the structure of the City's Neighborhood Watch Program. Specifically, the City Council requested clarification on the Program's association with the Police Department and an analysis of City personnel time devoted to supporting the Program.
Neighborhood Watch was started nationally in the 1960s to combat an increasing burglary rate. Since its genesis, Neighborhood Watch has grown from its "extra eyes and ears" approach toward crime prevention to a much more proactive, community-oriented endeavor. It provides a unique infrastructure that brings together local officials, law enforcement, and citizens to safeguard their communities. The Manhattan Beach Neighborhood Watch (MBNW) program was developed in 1980 by residents passionate about reducing crime and increasing the quality of life for residents.
The MBNW divides the City into eleven areas, with each area having a designated Area Coordinator who oversees the block captains within their area. There are approximately 400 block captains in the City. Neighborhood Watch has an Executive Committee including a Director, Assistant Director, Area Coordinator Chair, Data Manager, Treasurer, Secretary, City Council Liaison, and a CERT member, who assist...
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