New Information

I received an email from Erik from the Public Works department with WVC. I found this to be great news... (By the way, I know that the only way to "solve this problem" is if we, as the residents, slow down! I understand we all get in a hurry...but we need to remember that the maximum speed limit is 25 mph.) This is what he wrote:

Hi Renee,
We've purchased six new driver feedback signs and will be installing them
on High Bluff, Wakefield and Laurel Canyon. These won't solve the problem,
but the hope is that more drivers will be aware of how fast they are going and
slow down a little. We'll continue to collect information with the signs
in place to see how effective they are and if something else will need to be
considered.
As far as street lights go, I am putting together a program so that we can
get the funding to install lights where they are needed. Thanks for bringing
6200 South to my attention.
Thanks, Erik

I also got this email from our Councilmember Steve Vincent. He wrote:

Renee,
Just to let you know we have had some more discussions about the traffic
problems. I beleive the entire council is on board to see a plan move
forward. It would include the entire subdivision. We will start with
some small things (like the electric speed indicators signs) until we approve
the budget to do the speed humps. I will let you know when we aprove the
budget for the project.
Thank you for all your work,
Steve Vincent

Winter Parking Guidelines

Car being towed on High Bluff Drive.

ON-STREET PARKING
It is dangerous and difficult to plow streets clogged with parked vehicles. Some streets,
especially cul-de-sacs may not be plowed, if plows can not safely drive down them. The
most helpful thing residents can do to facilitate snow removal is to get their cars off the
street, and encourage others to do the same.

To facilitate snow removal, City ordinance prohibits on-street parking whenever there is
snow or ice on the road. Any vehicles parked on a West Valley City street after an
accumulation of ice or snow of one inch or more will be subject to ticketing and towing.
(WVC Code 24-4-111)


22-2-115. TIME LIMITATIONS.
No vehicle shall be parked on any street:
(1) While there is an accumulation of snow or ice of one inch or more on the roadway;
(2) For a period of longer than 72 consecutive hours; or
(3) For any period longer than allowed by appropriate signs, markings, or parking meters giving notice of such parking time limitation.


22-2-119. AUTHORITY TO MOVE OR REMOVE ILLEGALLY-PARKED VEHICLES.
(1) Whenever a peace officer determines that a vehicle parked in violation of this Chapter must be moved to avoid public inconvenience, ensure public safety, or because it appears to be abandoned, the officer is authorized to move the vehicle, cause it to be removed, or to order the owner or operator of the vehicle to move or remove it.
(2) A peace officer who causes a vehicle to be removed under this Section shall have the vehicle removed by a tow truck service that meets the standards established by Title 72, Chapter 9, Utah Code Annotated 1953, as amended, and that is authorized by the Police Department to perform towing services for the City.
(3) The City shall not be liable for any lost, damaged, or stolen items or damage to any vehicle moved or removed pursuant to this Section.
(4) The registered owner of a vehicle removed under this Section is strictly liable for all costs of removal.

*Take from WVC Official Website, City Code

Thank You...

A great big THANK YOU to all of you who donated items to our Neighborhood Watch Food Drive. We delivered it today to the Utah Food Bank & they weighed all the donations... 339 pounds of food! That's wonderful!!! I look forward to next year's food drive. Maybe we can reach 500 lbs next year!

Neigborhood Food Drive

The Summit Neigborhood Watch is hosting a

Neighborhood Food Drive!

December 1st - 15th

ALL donations will go to the Utah Food Bank!!

Food Drop Off: Bring donations & enjoy some refreshments (come & mingle as friends & neighbors)...between 10:00 - 11:00 am on Saturday, Dec 15th (Please see your flier for address, or email me at summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com)

Our goal is to have every home participate in this Neighborhood Food Drive. A goal of 10 cans per home, collecting between December 1-15.

That's less than a can a day!!

Great items to donate include: tuna, peanut butter, macaroni & cheese, canned fruit & veggies, baby formula & baby food, soup...etc.

Some of my thoughts....My husband found out at the end of September that he was going to lose his job on Dec 14th. We were devastated. We
thought that his job was secure...the news literally blew us out of our comfort level. The weeks that followed were filled with anxiety & stress. Trying to make ends meet is a bit stressful at times, but we've always felt secure...However, the unknown was getting the best of us. I worried...enough for the both of us...but I know that we have family to lean on, in the worst case scenario. (Thankfully, my husband was just offered a job this past week!) But the thought that there are families who struggle with no one to turn to just tugs at my heart. I couldn't imagine that feeling of hopelessness... I wanted to do something, even as small as a food drive, to help. I can't imagine families or children being hungry, especially during the holiday's when it seems like desserts & treats multiply in the fridge! To think of families without the bare necessities, is haunting. So, every year, neighbors spend so much time & money making holiday goodies for each other. While these acts of friendship are always appreciated, perhaps we could do something better with all of that time & money...instead of leaving gifts on each other's doorsteps, maybe we can combine our efforts to help those who are less fortunate than we are. Let's band together & help the Utah Food Bank!!

Utah Food Bank Services meets immediate, basic needs of people in our community who don't know where else to turn.

Graffiti

A great big THANKS to two alert citizens in our neighborhood who recognized suspicious behavior & called the Police! These are just 2 images from the graffiti on the LDS Church in our neighborhood. I am saddened by this lack of respect... I have seen these markings on the cement walls, fences, street signs, electrical boxes...everywhere. We need to keep our eyes open for suspicious behavior & learn to recognize it. If you see something, call the police...the non-emergency # is 840-4000 (if you are witnessing the crime in action, tell the dispatcher it is in progress). In order for our neighborhood watch to work, we need to band together & do our part to "look out for each other"! Please, don't confront anyone, that is not our job...we are the eyes & ears...call the police & let them do their job! Please, please PLEASE, report crimes to the police!

Happy Thanksgiving!

A visit with the WVC Police Chief

Wow...I had the opportunity to meet with Buzz Nielsen, the West Valley Police Chief today. Last night, after the city council presentation, he came over to me & asked if he could meet with me. He asked if he could come over to my home so that he'd have time to drive through the neighborhood. So, today at 2 pm...he came to my home. We had a wonderful conversation. I was very appreciative that he took time from his very busy schedule to visit with me & talk about my concerns. He said that he had driven all throughout Diamond Summit to observe things. We talked about many things, however, our focus (of course) was the speeding problems...especially on High Bluff, Laurel Canyon & Wakefield. He told me that the City Council definitely has their attention on Diamond Summit...because they had a meeting this morning & said that my presentation & the presentation by Public Works in the study session previous to the City Council meeting, brought a lot of issues to their attention.

The Chief also said that he is in need of more officers & is working on a solution for Diamond Summit. He knows that something has to be done. And wants to work with us on this situation of speeding. We talked about several different possibilitites to help, in the immediate future... Because he pointed out, as city council did...that working with Public Works...for signage & other measures, takes time. BUT...the police can do things to help us out. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to meet with him to discuss & be heard about these important problems.

Thank You...

I just wanted to take a moment & thank all of those who attended the City Council meeting with me tonight. I know that it might be awhile before we see the fruits of our labors, but there is no doubt in my mind, that our subdivision will have some changes in the near future. I appreciate the support of you, as residents & the support of our Councilman, Steve Vincent. Craig Thomas, who is a huge support & helps guide me through this NW process! This subject is so important to me...I know that we can make a difference, if we just try.

Also, our C.O.P. Officer, Officer Buchanan, who has been in our neighborhood to observe traffic. He gave me the copies of the report from his observations...he gave 3 citations to people who were speeding. These were the speeds, 42 mph, 42 mph, 41 mph. That is almost double the actual speed limit. He would have spent more time, but he had to arrest somebody... But he promised he'll be back...maybe tomorrow or Thursday!

You are invited to attend a City Council Meeting with me!!

Date: November 13th

Time: 6:30 PM

Address: West Valley City Hall - 3600 South Constitution Blvd.

I am at stage 2 of my plan for requesting "traffic calming" measures in our neighborhood! I'm going to speak at Open Forum at the city council meeting at city hall on NOVEMBER 13th. I would like to invite you all to come with me...with your families - especially your children...to show support for this cause & to show the city that we really do want a resolution to this problem. The meeting starts at 6:30 PM. I know that it would be so much more effective if people came with me...instead of just showing up by myself. I know that this might be an inconvienence for you, but I plead with you to come with me to show the city that we care about safety in our neighborhood, for our children. Our C.O.P. Officer sat on High Bluff to monitor speed this past week. I should be receiving the results sometime this week. I will post the information when I get it. If you have any questions, please email me at summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com .

November 6, 2007 - Time to VOTE!

Election Day is November 6th.

Click on Picture below for early voting locations!

Our Polling location is Hunter High School at 4200 South 5600 West. The polls are open from 7am - 8pm on Election day. If you have any questions, please call the Elections Division at 468-3427 or www.clerk.slco.org .

Safety Tips for Halloween

Here are some safety tips for the Trick or Treaters in our neighborhood:

• Eat a good meal before trick-or-treating.
• Wear reflective clothing.
• Carry a flashlight or some type of lighting device.
• Use sidewalks when going up to homes and don’t cut through yards.
• A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.
• Children should not enter a stranger’s home or car, even if invited. Talk with your children about this important rule.
• Homeowners should not invite children inside.
• Accept treats only in the doorway, not from anyone on the street.
• Parents should examine all candy before eating it.
• Plan your entire route and make sure that your family knows what it is.
• Be very cautious of strangers.
• Only trick-or-treat at homes that have their porch light on.
• Walk...don't run.
• Cross the street at the corner or in a crosswalk.
• Wear a watch.
• Don't play near lit jack-o-lanterns.
• Take a cell phone with you, if possible.
• Because masks can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives. Hats should fit properly to prevent them from sliding over eyes. If wearing a mask, make sure that eye openings are big enough for peripheral vision.

Some Safety tips for the parents:

• Turn on your porch light.
• Move lit Jack-O-Lanterns off the porch where kids get bunched up if they are trick-or-treating in groups.
• Remove objects from your yard that might present a hazard.
• Drive slowly all evening...you never know what creature may suddenly cross your path.
• Report ANY suspicious or criminal activity to the police at 840-4000, or if necessary 911.

For adults who are celebrating there are some things to consider when creating that "perfect" Halloween Costume.

• Make sure that any accessories, such as fake guns, knifes, and other potentially dangerous items are not mistaken for the real thing.
• Fire safety and visibility are also important for adult costumes. Apply the same standards to adult costumes as you do to your children's.
• Remember adults that are dressed up can be pretty scary to young children.

For a really GREAT interactive Halloween Safety Game to play with your kids, visit the following link: http://www.halloweenmagazine.com/play2.html

And most of all, don't forget to have a...

Parking Quiz

Did you know that failure to follow any of the following parking guidelines could get you a ticket?

1. Vehicles should not block or extend into a public sidewalk.
2. Vehicles should not be parked in front of a public or private driveway.
3. Vehicles should not be parked within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
4. Vehicles should not be parked within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection.
5. Vehicles should not be parked within 30 feet of a stop sign.
6. Vehicles can not be double parked on the street.
7. Vehicles need to be parked within 12 inches of the curb on the street.
8. Vehicles should not be parked on the stret facing into normal traffic flow.
9. Vehicles parked on any road must be registered with proper registration validation on display.

For more information on parking and how to properly operate your vehicle on Utah roads, please visit the West Valley City website at: http://www.wvc-ut.gov/citycode/html/title22.htm and the Utah Department of Public Safety Driver License Division website at: http://driverlicense.utah.gov/

(Taken from a West Valley City brochure.)

Take Pride in our Community!

West Valley City urges you to take pride in our community. They offer the following suggestions:

1. Keep your lawn & parking strip watered, fertilized & free from weeds. Mow it regularly.
2. If you remove landscaping from the front yard, the remaining landscaping can not be less than 60% of the front yard. Park strips are generally landscaped but each subdivision can have their own requirements.
3. Do not park cars on the lawns.
4. Trim your bushes & shrubs to keep them looking neat.
5. Observe the speed limits. Residential zones are 25 mph.
6. Remove your garbage cans from the streets as soon after the weekly pickup as possible. Cans left on the street can be an invitation to thieves.
7. Sweep your gutters regularly & keep drain grills free from debris.
8. Keep leaves raked up & dispose of them properly.
9. Turn on your porch lights from dusk to dawn. It only costs pennies per day. This serves as a great crime prevention tool.
10. Remove sale & lost signs immediately.
11. Grocery carts belong to the stores. It is a crime to remove them from the store parking lot.
12. There should be no loud noise between 10:00pm & 7:00am. This includes music, car honking, revving of engines or parties.

(Information taken from a West Valley City brochure.)

Lighting Safety Tips

These are some great tips/reminders from the West Valley City Neighborhood Services department!

Lighting can be one of the greatest deterrents to crime in our community. Carefully consider the following suggestions:

1. Leave lights on when you go out at night. Timers can be used to give the impression someone is home, turning lights on & off.
2. Leave porch lights on at night to illuminate your yard & home. It is estimated that a 75 watt light bulb will light your yard for less than $29 a year.
3. Motion lights have become very affordable in recent years. Install motion lights in your yard to help illuminate areas like driveways, side yards & back yards.
4. Think like a criminal. Turn on your outside lights & evaluate dark areas, look for areas you can hide in the shadows. If you can hide, so can a criminal. Adjust your outside lighting or landscaping to help eliminate these hiding places.
5. Make sure your street lights are working. Let the power company know when lights are no longer working.
6. Maintain your outside lighting. Replace bulbs when they stop working.

A well lit street & neighborhood can be a great deterrent to criminal activity. An alert neighborhood with residents "looking out for each other" is also needed!

BE ALERT!

Watch for activity that does not belong in our neighborhood & let the Police (840-4000) know & your Neighborhood Watch Block Captain know immediately!

Valley Emergency Communications Center

VECC...the dispatch center for most of the valley's law enforcement & medical agencies! I had the priviledge of going there to see the "behind the scene's" of a 911 call, and the dispatchers who work with the police officers. What an amazing facility!! In fact, I went on Friday, September 28th...but needed a few days to absorb it all & to sort it out in my mind. I sat with a lady who has been a dispatcher for over 20 years. She showed me the many things that go into a simple 911 call & how they relay that information to the police. I also sat with the people who take the phone calls from the public...I had the opportunity to listen in on some 911 calls. Ok, 911 is for emergencies...not to ask for the time, or directions! Oh my goodness...it's like people don't realize that 911 is for emergencies!

There were some really intense calls that made my adrenaline soar....& some that made me sick to my stomach. One call had me in tears ( I thought I was doing good at hiding it) but the call taker said...that they have to distance their feelings, or it would be just too tough to do their job. I was amazed at how calm the dispatchers were, & thank goodness so that they can relay the important information.

I learned a few things that night... I think first & foremost is that there is a need to educate on how to make a 911 call. Usually emotions are running high if a 911 call needs to be placed. But, from talking with the dispatchers, it's so very important to give the essential facts first. Don't give a long-winded story...that just takes up important time. They need the absolute facts first...but even if emotions are high, they will guide you through to get the information. I also learned that it is so important for the public to work together with law enforcement...

I learned that I need to give my children extra hugs, extra kisses, check & make sure the doors & windows are locked & do all that I can to make sure my home is a safe place for my family!

I'm really grateful for the opportunity that I had to visit the VECC facility, it opened my eyes even more! I promise I will do all that I can to help this Neighborhood Watch successful in our neighborhood, but I do need your help & support. If you would like to help the neighborhood watch, please email me at summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com .

Neighborhood Watch Window Decals

I have quite a few Neighborhood Watch decals to place in your window, where it can be seen from the outside. If you are interested, please let me know & I can drop it off to you!

** Also, we are still collecting donations for our Neighborhood Watch signs...let me know if you are interested in donating! :) Thank you!

Crime Statistics

These are the crime statistics for our neighborhood. This information is open to the public. It is important for the Neighborhood Watchto be effective, to have this information, but it is also important for all of us to know what is happening in our neighborhood. If you have any questions regarding these crime stats, you can call C.O.P. Officer Buchanan at 955-4112 or you can email me.

Speeding Statistics

Please, click to enlarge & see this information!

While I was trying to get signatures for my stop sign petition, I had several conversations with people about the speed on High Bluff Drive. Most everyone is seriously concerned with how fast cars drive at all hours of the day. Most people are afraid to allow their children to play in the front yard for this very reason. I know, as parents, we try to do all that we can to teach our children to not run into the street...but it could happen. However, those of us who drive, need to do so in a responsible manner. I was given a flier on Speed Statistics from my friend, Sgt. Merritt. (He used to be a C.O.P. Officer & he worked with me several times on this issue.) When I first saw the statistics, it made me sick to my stomach. A child can be seriously injured or killed by someone simply driving 5 mph over the speed limit.

Last summer, Sgt. Merritt sat on Mt. Adams drive in an unmarked car in the early afternoon to monitor & record speed on High Bluff Drive, it wasn't even at it's heaviest time of traffic. He reminded me of the situation, he said:

"If you recall, when I sat there I clocked every vehicle driving both north and south on High Bluff. If they were traveling over 20 mph, I recorded the speed. I then went and averaged the speeds and came up with something in the area of 33 mph. That may not seem like such a high number, but in order to get it, there had to be some people traveling over 40 mph."

According to the statistics flier, if someone was traveling at 40 mph & a child ran out in the street 60 feet in front of the driver, the car would strike the child at a speed of 35 mph. That's a horrible scenario....

I'd like to pose a few questions to you that usually people don't think about that can attribute to such an accident. Are you talking on a cell phone while driving? Are you distracted with your children that you aren't really paying attention to your driving or speed? Are you in such a hurry that you think 5 mph over the speed limit won't really hurt? If you answered yes to any of these, I just ask you to please think about "what might happen".

I also liked what Sgt. Merritt said about the Speed Statistics, he said:

"A lot of people disbelieve the data at first. It's really quite alarming. However, physics don't lie. People may say that it's not everyone and it's only the occasional car doing it. This may be true, but accidents are caused by that "occasional car" every day. It doesn't take much for some unsuspecting child to run into the street after their ball and they end up either dead or seriously injured. "

I'd like to end this post with a plea...Please, slow down. Please, pay attention to your speed. Please, keep your eyes out for that unsuspecting child that is running after a ball & runs into the street. Please, do all that you can to make sure you are not driving above 25 mph in a residential neighborhood.

I'd like to hear your opinions or comments on this subject.

Thank You...

I just wanted to take a moment to Thank all of the residents who have signed my petition for the stop sign request. The intersection that I am targeting is High Bluff Drive & Mount Adams, for a 3-way stop. That intersection is right in that curve...there are so many "almost accidents" there on a daily basis. I have gathered about 47 names & am hoping to have an even 60 names. I know many of you have mentioned that you are just as concerned...I hope that this will help all of us feel a little better by doing something!

Vision West 2030

I have some information about some public meetings... The flier I got invites West Valley City residents to attend a Visioning Meeting to discuss Land Uses in the Opportunity Corridors. The opportunity corridors are some of the areas most likely to experience significant changes in the next 25 years. Opportunity Corridors include 3300/3500 South, Redwood Rd, 5600 West, and the areas surrounding the proposed light rail stations and Mountain View Corridor interchanges. Questions they will be asking: How should these areas look? What land uses are appropriate? Help is needed to shape the future in West Valley City. The meetings are as follows:

3300/3500 South
October 6, 2007
8:00 am to 10:00 am
Utah Cultural Celebration Center

5600 W./ Mountain View Corridor
October 20, 2007
8:00 am to 10:00 am
West Valley Family Fitness Center

WVC Light Rail Corridor
November 10, 2007
8:00 am - 10:00 am
Utah Cultural Celebration Center

Redwood Road
November 17, 2007
8:00 am to 10:00 am
The E Center

Crime In Our Neighborhood

I wanted to let you know some things that have happened in our neighborhood... On July 17th, an article, by Russ Rizzo, ran in the Salt Lake Tribune, it is as follows:

Attempted Rape Suspect is Sought

South Salt Lake police are looking for a man who grabbed a 15-year-old girl off the street, drove her to West Valley City and tried to rape her. The man grabbed at the woman and tore clothing, but she managed to escape him and run to safety, Capt. Tracy Tingey said.

The girl was walking on 400 East near 2600 South on her way to the library at the Columbus Center less than a block away about 11:30 a.m. Friday when a man pulled up behind her a and dragged her into his car.

The man sped off holding the girl by the throat, causing her to lose consciousness for a short time, Tingey said. He parked in a vacant lot near 6340 W. High Bluff Dr. (6200 South) in West Valley City, Tingey said.

During the assault, the man demanded the girl remove her clothes and grabbed at her, tearing clothing, Tingey said. The girl hit the man in the right eye and ran from the car, police said. She ran through a neighborhood to a video store nearly nine blocks away, where she called police, Tingey said.

The attacker was described as 30 to 40 years old, 6 feet tall, clean-shaven and wearing a black shirt and jeans, police said. He had a black tattoo on his left forearm in the shape of a lizard, police said. The attacker was driving an older model red or maroon sedan with right-front damage, police said. The car's front-right headlight was cracked, and the back windows had dark tint, police said. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 840-4000.

This bothered me on several levels. Mostly it broke my heart, it's such a horrible act of violence. And not only does it bother me that this happened in our neighborhood, but in broad daylight!! I know, the only way we can be succesful in our efforts of a neighborhood watch is by keeping our eyes & ears open...being aware of suspicious activity. I know that we can't deter all crime, but we can sure try, but we have to work together, "to look out for each other"!

Also, there have been some cars & homes broken into & some theft by the new construction that have been brought to my attention. Please, please PLEASE, report these crimes to our police department (840-4000). It is so important to do this, for our statistics in our neighborhood to be accurate & to help deter such crime. Also, if there is a person who is caught, but has done several break-ins...the police wouldn't know unless, we as the residents, call & report such activity! So...let's work together & report ALL suspicious activity & crimes!

*** I have heard from our C.O.P. Officer J. Buchanan. He said that South Salt Lake Police is handling the case & if you have any information, the case # is 07G005367 & you can reach them at 840-4000 (fyi, they use the same phone #).

Neighborhood Watch Signs

I just wanted to remind you all that we are still collecting donations for our Neighborhood Watch signs. We are asking for at least $1 per resident (more if you would like!). We need to fund our own signs...& we'd really like to get them soon. Residents are the "eyes & ears" for law enforcement & signs show criminals that "we are looking out for each other"! If you would like to donate, please email me summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com & I'd be happy to come pick it up...as of today we are at $33...enough for 1 sign! Our goal is to have at least 4 in the beginning & add more as we go!

Ride-Along

After the accident, the man ran into the road, right into traffic.

The guys car just bumped the pole, no real bad damage.

#3 Car


#2 Car

#1 Car...Yikes!
This is what can happen if you aren't paying attention.
At least they know the airbags work!

Last night I had the privilege of going on a “ride along” with the West Valley Police. I went with Sgt. Merritt, because I knew him from working with him when he was in the COP (community oriented policing) department. I have always been impressed with him. He’s one of those people who, literally, is the definition of integrity. I felt comfortable with him & I asked a million questions, oh man…if there was a question, I asked it! Poor guy, I had him talking his entire shift! I was able to be his “shadow” from 5:30pm –2:00am. I got to tour the buildings, the evidence room & different areas that I probably wouldn’t have been able to see if I wasn’t on a ride-along. I learned so many things!

I wanted to see the fun, exciting part, we did get to run “code”, you know, lights, sirens & going really fast…it was great! But I also wanted to understand the side of the police officer. Here in our neighborhood, I often hear the complaint of how long it takes for police response time. I admit, I myself have been annoyed & complained. But being in some of the meetings with the city I’ve been in, I wanted to understand why things are they way they are… Well, this I can say for sure, I won’t be complaining anymore. Holy Cow, I have a whole new perspective. You know the old saying, “there is two sides to every story”…I would like to share what I learned.

Their shifts are totally unpredictable; everything depends on the type of calls that they get. It could be pretty quiet, or slammed with a ton of calls. Some of the calls that we went to were: 3-car accident, traffic stops (Why on earth do people drive with suspended or revoked licenses, no insurance, no registration?), a medical caused accident where a taser was involved, two suicide complaints (alcohol & guns don’t mix well), more traffic stops providing back-up. I was again impressed, Sgt. Merritt has compassion with people & I think that is sometimes a rare quality to find in a police officer. (Or we're just too angry when we get pulled over by a cop to see it! :) wink, wink!) We also did some patrolling in some neighborhoods…some being pretty rough & one was a new construction, with a lot of theft. While we were in the new construction neighborhood, we were driving with all of the lights off & then heard shots fired & before I could even compute it in my head, Sgt. Merritt had all the lights back on & was driving really fast trying to locate where it came from, but without seeing any cars around, it was hard to find. But then there was a call about some road rage & then we rushed to that…. There was a lot of driving, a lot of observance of how people react when there is a police car nearby, a lot of people do stupid things right in front of the police…that makes me laugh!

Anyway, I was in awe how the officers have to watch the calls on their computers, listen to the radio, talk on the cell phone, drive and keep their eyes out for things happening around them. Talk about multi-tasking…very impressive. I had the opportunity to go to the dispatch center as well, my goodness, it was really very overwhelming to see what goes on “behind the scenes” so to speak. I learned that there are plenty of calls that you start going to…but then turn around because a new priority arises. The whole priority of calls was interesting to me. There has to be order, right? But when you have something happen to you, you think it’s the most important thing & needs to be addressed right now! But, when you look at the whole picture, that’s not how it works. Again & again I saw this last night. This is what made me realize that no matter where you live, there will be delays…because the officers have to be looking at the whole picture. For example, your car may have been broken into & you want the police to come right now, but there may be an urgent matter somewhere else that requires several officers.

In talking with Sgt. Merritt, I also learned that it’s important to make sure that we call the police when a crime has been committed. There needs to be documentation. Sometimes the calls don’t warrant 911, but we can call 840-4000 to report a crime. This helps the city know if there is a pattern…it is really important for the police to be notified. It is also helpful for the neighborhood watch to be effective. We have to work with our police department in order to combat & deter crime in our neighborhood. If you see something suspicious, call!

Before I went on the ride-along I had to sign paperwork that released the city of liability if something were to happen…to me. I read the paperwork & thought to myself, I know they are covering themselves of all the legalities. But, a police officer puts their life on the line every time they show up for work, and for that, I am grateful. I am grateful for the men & women who do this job so that my family can be safe…so hopefully, before we all start to complain, let’s think of the many things that our police department does to ensure our safety!

Thank you, again, Sgt. Merritt, for letting me shadow you & ask my many, many questions! It was an experience I won’t forget!

Meet the Candidates - September 5

Meet the Candidates Night Set For September 5

WHAT: Primary Election Meet the Candidates Night

WHEN: Wednesday, September 5, 2007 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

WHERE: West Valley City Hall, Council Chambers3600 S. Constitution Blvd.

WHO: Residents of West Valley City are welcome to attend Meet the Candidates Night free of charge.

WHY: Not sure which candidate to vote for? Join us for Meet the Candidates Night to have your questions answered by the candidates. The evening forum will be moderated by Alan Anderson, president of Chamber West. Candidates will be asked randomly selected questions, submitted by residents prior to and during the forum. The event will last approximately one hour.

Afterwards, residents can mingle with the candidates in the lobby.

Residents are welcome to arrive early as candidates will be in the lobby approximately one hour prior to the public forum to mingle with residents. Questions for the forum can be submitted to ojackson@wvc-ut.gov.

Residents can cast their votes prior to the September 11 Primary Election at West Valley City Hall (3600 S. Constitution Blvd.) from August 20 to September 10 during regular City Hall business hours (Mon.-Thurs. 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.). On September 7, the polls will be open from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. West Valley City residents can also vote early at the Salt Lake County Elections Division (2001 S. State Street, S1100) Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Both polling locations will be closed for the Labor Day holiday on September 3.

For more information, please call the City Recorder’s Office at 963-3203 or 963-3207.

Stop Sign Petition

For years, I have been concerned with the ever-increased traffic & speed on High Bluff Drive. I am overwhelmed with the inattention of drivers speeding through a residential neighborhood. I have often wondered that part of the problem may be that from 7000 South to 6200 South there is nothing to break the speed of a driver. I have requested traffic studies, I have asked our COP (community oriented police) to patrol & observe the street. I have yelled "slow down" a time or two (or a hundred)! I have been working with the city for a very long time about this issue. So, in the very near future, I will coming door to door asking for your signature on a petition for a 3 way stop sign at the intersection of High Bluff Drive & Mt. Adams. Not only is it a crazy busy intersection, it is also a bus stop for elementary students. I have spoken with police officers who have said "something has to be done". And, so...it is my hope that we can deter some of the speeding by implementing a stop sign. I know not everyone is going to be pleased by my efforts, but if it slows people down for the sake of our children being safe...then, it will be worth it. Please feel free to share your opinions with me either through email at summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com or when I come to your home! :)

Please, please, PLEASE slow down when driving through our neighborhood!!!

Teaching kids to be safe around dogs.

I read a great article in the September issue of Parents. It is called "Beware of the Dog." It has some great tips on how to keep your kids safe. I had a frightening experience a little while ago. When my son was 5 months old, he was in his bouncy seat, with my husband right next to him. In a second's time, a dog ran into our yard and jumped on him and then backed up and started to bark. It was very scary and we were right there...it took a very long time for our son to settle down (us too!) but we were grateful that there was no physical damage. The article stated that 50% of all kids are nipped by a family pet, and another 40% are attacked by a friend's or neighbor's dog. The article also said that "older kids are bitten most often, but younger kids tend to get more serious bites on their head or neck."

The article tackles the following myths:

1. Some dogs are always good around children.
2. You can always pet your own dog.
3. Dressing up your dog is harmless fun.
4. Most dogs will instinctively protect a baby or young child.
5. When your dog wags its tail, it's happy.

Here is a link to West Valley City's Code's about animals.

Back To School...

Just a reminder to SLOW DOWN while driving. There will be lots of kids out & about...

Neighborhood Block Party - A HUGE Success!

I was worried that no one was going to come, but I think it was a hit! It was a lot of fun...especially the children's bike parade. SO many kids came with their bikes, it was wonderful to have a street closure for them to ride safely in the street (even if it was only for 1 1/2 hours!!). I loved watching people mingle, introducing themselves to new people & getting to know one another!

We are really grateful that we were visited by our WVC COP (Community Officer Patrol) Sargeant Hansen! Also, Thanks to our WVC Fire Department...even though they got a call to leave right when they came, & then they even came back...but got another call before they even got out of the fire engine...but we are thankful that they made efforts to visit us! Also, thank you to Steve Vincent, our city councilman over our district & our Code Enforment Officers who came to visit our Neighborhood Watch Block Party! I want to also say a special thank you to my block captains... We couldn't have had this Block Party without your help!!!

And a HUGE thank you to Craig Thomas with West Valley City Neighborhood Services who continually supports us Neighborhood Watch Chairs!

Neighborhood Block Party!

The Summit Neighborhood Watch Presents:

National Night Out Against Crime
Neighborhood Block Party
Tuesday, August 7th
6:30 - 7:30 Pm

Block Party will be held between
6415 S. & 6449 S. Pine Valley Lane

Get to know your neighbors & meet your Block Captains from the Neighborhood Watch! Mingle will visitors from the West Valley City Police & Fire Departments!

Children's Bike Parade at 7:00 pm!
Kids: Decorate your bicycles, tricycles & wagons for the parade! Prizes will be awarded for most colorful & most creative! Popsicles will be served after the children's parade!

National Night Out 2007 - America's National Night Out Against Crime

National Night Out - August 7th
Time & Location - TBA (we're waiting on street closure approvals!)

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT is designed to:
• Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;
• Generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs;
• Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and
• Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

We are planning to participate in the National Night Out Against Crime! West Valley City residents have been participating in this event since its creation. Last year, more than 30 block parties were held throughout the City. We hope that this will serve as a time to get to know your block captains & answers any questions you might have about the Neighborhood Watch program.

We are hoping to have visitors from the WVC Police & Fire departments, information regarding home safety & child safety! We want to have some fun events & have been thinking about having a
bike parade for the kids... We were thinking they could come with their bikes, tricycles, or wagons decorated...& then have a parade...& finish it off with popsicles for everyone! Planning is in the works & invitations will be out when details are finalized!

Have a suggestion? Email me at summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com

Questions or Concerns?

I will be meeting with my block captains this week. I was wondering if anyone has any questions or concerns that you feel need to be addressed? If you have any thoughts about our neighborhood you would like to share, please email me at summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com We need your help to make our neighborhood safer!

Happy 4th of July!

Reminders...

I have had some people respond with some adivce for everyone...or rather reminders!

• Close your garage door at night. And if you happen to see your neighbor's open...give them a call, they may have forgotten about it.
• Make sure your porch light is on & that your lights are working on the sides of your garage. If a criminal has the choice between a home with lights on & a home with lights off, they'll choose the home with the lights off.
• Keep your doors locks.
• Make sure that your car doors are locked, that your car windows are rolled up. Also, make sure that you don't have valuables visible in your car.

Thank you for those who emailed me with reminders!

Vision West 2030

What is a general plan?

• A general plan is a detailed document that describes what a city expects to become & how best to accomplish its objectives.
• It considers how the community will be structured, how it will grow, operate & how it will serve its citizens over the next 20-30 years.
• A general plan is not the "law". It is an advisory document that helps provide direction & focus for city leaders as they legislate & administer laws & ordinances.

Why update the general plan?

• West Valley City has grown & changed significantly since the last general plan update in 2000. The city is much larger & much more diverse that it was a decade ago.
• Home & land values have risen sharply. Homes are being built in areas that weren't anticipated in the last general plan.
• The Mountain View Corridor highway, bus rapid transit along 3500 South, & light rail will be under construction soon, requiring the City to examine the impacts of these projects.

How can YOU make a difference?

• Email to share your thoughts visionwest@wvc-ut.gov
• Visit the West Valley City website.
• Read the West Valley Journal for updates.
• Attend a public meeting.
• Call the city with your ideas for the future 963-3531 or 965-5841

Please feel free to share your thoughts & ideas with me about our neighborhood & what you think could help our neighborhood. I am on the "existing neighborhood" committee. I would love to hear your comments, & then take them back to the meetings! summitneighborhoodwatch@yahoo.com

What is Neighborhood Watch?

What is it?
Neighborhood Watch is a program which enlists the active participation of citizens in cooperation with the Police to reduce crime in their community.

Neighborhood Watch, in various forms, has been around for many years. Today it is one of the most popular and successful of all efforts to prevent residential crime. Perhaps one reason for the success of Neighborhood Watch is its simplicity. Although programs may vary the ways they are organized and the methods used to reduce the opportunity for crime, all are predicated on the need for residents to protect their neighborhood by observing and reporting suspicious or unusual activities.

What does it involve?

Neighbors knowing who their neighbors are, so they can work together in a program of mutual assistance. Citizens being trained to recognize, and report, suspicious activities in their neighborhood.

What are the Benefits of Neighborhood Watch?

Many communities with active programs have experienced substantial decreases in burglary, vandalism and larceny. In addition to the prevention of residential crime, Neighborhood Watch:

• Creates a greater awareness of crime & increases reporting of crime and suspicious activities


• Serves as a warning to criminals


• Promotes neighborliness


• Provides residents with access to crime patterns and trends that may threaten them.


• Increases arrest and conviction of criminals due to the availability of eye witnesses.
  

*Taken from the West Valley City official website