POTPOURRI IT IS

As I write this there are many major issues at this moment occupying the attention of Plainfielders. Two however are dominating the media and the blogs. That does not mean that everything else is OK, but these are the focus of public concerns.

The first is the crime rate. It is true that according to FBI statistics there has been a drop of 30% in violent crimes this past decade. However there has not been a breakdown printed as to various classifications. In fact this past 9 months there has been 30 shootings a marked increase over previous years. We have been informed that these are "gang related", and that the area involved is localized to part of the 4th Ward.

As of this time there has been no overall plan published that outlines the city's plan to combat this problem. The one tool proposed at an initial cost of a million dollars and a $150,000.00 annual upkeep is the ShotSpotter system.

It may work. It is a great technical development but can it be a deterrent? That is doubtful. By itself it can only alert that shots have been fired in a pinpoint location. It might enable aid if we still have the capability in Plainfield to reach victims sooner. But by itself it can not nor has there been proof given that it will decrease the use of guns.

Safety Director Hellwig said that the police in special equipped cars could arrive at the scene in "seconds". I have not heard that teleportation has been developed. Yes a few minutes may be saved in relaying information but who can conceive that the perps will still be in the neighborhood? Will there be sufficient police vehicles to stop every car leaving the area? Illogical argument at best.

We can only hope that between today and Tuesday October 12 the Council members will have sufficient positive data on hand to pass the Ordinance's second reading. If they have any questions they must reject the system at this time.

Since the long overdue 2011FY budget has still to make its appearance it has not received the attention it should. Rather I should include it in the next few days in a discussion relating to this Administration's approach to fiscal matters. In the meantime for those with time Maria has posted the last three years Auditor's reports. Forget the numbers the comments and recommendations will give all the insight we need in how Administration manages(?) our money.

The other major concern is the BOE/PSSS. We must thank Maria for her continued breaking down the wall of secrecy that the BOE has erected around its activities. Again this will be a near future post.