tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89842157889647824722024-03-19T02:47:48.678-06:00SafeGrowthINSPIRE NEIGHBORHOOD FUTURESGSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.comBlogger619125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-41768634566524694792024-03-09T00:37:00.003-07:002024-03-13T01:48:05.092-06:00Riding that train with TriMet's Safety Response Team - Part 3<p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSv1ItmhkKt8a2JGxKN9pesFuhtBqdSOZRyQbLxWg6jCX-koXRUVSmfrWwy3Cpez94fCiJGNEvjupIUk31akEr3Gh4X5VvMIwtf7aXZnMBbGXpv1j19U7T6mbQanhGrBQtCHSSuhjcSsYZ7LBs4MjjbsY8AD0TpAwt6NW-mii-U7wO9Z6fSjrlEL_OFTX/s1280/TriMet_Type_5_LRVs_in_Hillsboro_May_2015.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZSv1ItmhkKt8a2JGxKN9pesFuhtBqdSOZRyQbLxWg6jCX-koXRUVSmfrWwy3Cpez94fCiJGNEvjupIUk31akEr3Gh4X5VvMIwtf7aXZnMBbGXpv1j19U7T6mbQanhGrBQtCHSSuhjcSsYZ7LBs4MjjbsY8AD0TpAwt6NW-mii-U7wO9Z6fSjrlEL_OFTX/w413-h382/TriMet_Type_5_LRVs_in_Hillsboro_May_2015.jpg" width="413" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p><span>Portland's TriMet mass transit serves over 50 million riders annually in metro Portland. The SRT Team works on this system. Photo <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=40916226">Steve Morgan - CC BY-SA 3.0</a></span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="https://www.safegrowth.org/beth-dufek.html">Beth Dufek</a> is a writer and marketing strategist for clients who are improving the built environment. She runs her own consulting firm in the Pacific Northwest. As a member of the SafeGrowth Network, she teaches SafeGrowth in cities across the U.S. This is Beth’s third blog on responding to people in crisis on the street.</span></i></p><p><br /></p><p>To round out the third of my SafeGrowth blog series, (see also <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2024/01/whos-on-call-in-portland-trimets-safety.html ">January, 2024</a> and <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2023/11/who-you-gonna-call-appropriate-response.html ">November, 2023</a>) I am pleased to share a morning spent with one of the many Portland TriMet Safety Response Teams in my final blog on this topic. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>HERE’S HOW WE ROLL</b></span></p><p>I arrived at TriMet’s Public Safety Office at a reasonable 10am on a partly cloudy, crisp, dry day in February. Having no idea what it’s like to be outside all day anymore, I layered up, packed snacks, and changed my shoes three times. </p><p>I was warmly greeted by a four-person Safety Response Team (SRT) who started their shift at sunrise: 7am. Each person had a unique reason for joining the SRT, ranging from social work and trying a new career to former issues with addiction. Comradery among the team seemed essential. They maintained a sense of humor (they were hilarious), shared stories (especially about food), and watched out for each (something they took seriously). </p><p>Here is how I saw TriMet’s four core principles of the SRT play out in 2 short hours.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOBUgBtaLYCpMhL9PB8hf1zlfRXm7UyK1PRTZpnVUg7_JUdHqSJCuv1IT5NZ0VmsBnNEJAogX8a2Ojyx-IaJF0_p_R7LM9R28qvRiUmX711qAxxoMAEoZuDjk336NXEuE5X_VJpiuNOPkPpzuuoI5eFq34pFVOIGMUZSm79ySbfMeqOlZrD-skf-ovoZmA/s3149/SRT%20on%20the%20system%20(14).Jan23.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2239" data-original-width="3149" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOBUgBtaLYCpMhL9PB8hf1zlfRXm7UyK1PRTZpnVUg7_JUdHqSJCuv1IT5NZ0VmsBnNEJAogX8a2Ojyx-IaJF0_p_R7LM9R28qvRiUmX711qAxxoMAEoZuDjk336NXEuE5X_VJpiuNOPkPpzuuoI5eFq34pFVOIGMUZSm79ySbfMeqOlZrD-skf-ovoZmA/w444-h316/SRT%20on%20the%20system%20(14).Jan23.jpg" width="444" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>SRT on the system. Photo courtesy of Tri-Met<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>HIGH VISIBILITY SYSTEM PRESENCE </b></span></span></p><p>SRTs work in two shifts, 6 days/week. Each SRT has one team lead and three team members. Each shift has three to five teams on the system. They cover TriMet’s 533 square mile service area within the regional counties of Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas.</p><p>The team I rode with estimated they interact with 30 - 50 people per shift, but it depends on the day. Interactions are not limited to people in distress or mitigating behavioral issues. They may help people navigate <a href="https://trimet.org/schedules/index.htm">the system</a> – that they know like the back of their hand – or help tourists get to their destination. They enter each interaction into a <a href="https://www.smartsheet.com/">Smartsheet</a> app on their phones, which TriMet aggregates to track trends. In November 2023, the SRT interacted with 11,354 people, 8,022 of whom were offered services. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pYj3I2DhVYYUFzxgp7HyRyKIXY1PAnPSon1LxMEiTzozbKxtxHttXin6YX_ZnpPJaQJxnPCnOZK342sRhGihBp20jZg2Y09NWcTqNwjkYp2JxavMYjXIogFSRc8LZdIzATZ3Yx54DQ-edn-OAa-Y4LMqk17Oy17DB1D2rxG5OO6tn_PJ35CcgWMPAiEP/s3024/Rose%20City%20Resource.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2865" data-original-width="3024" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8pYj3I2DhVYYUFzxgp7HyRyKIXY1PAnPSon1LxMEiTzozbKxtxHttXin6YX_ZnpPJaQJxnPCnOZK342sRhGihBp20jZg2Y09NWcTqNwjkYp2JxavMYjXIogFSRc8LZdIzATZ3Yx54DQ-edn-OAa-Y4LMqk17Oy17DB1D2rxG5OO6tn_PJ35CcgWMPAiEP/s320/Rose%20City%20Resource.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>Rose City Resource list made available by SRT</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>CONNECTING RIDERS TO RESOURCES</b></span></span></p><p>Within minutes of leaving the Public Safety Building, we stopped so the team could ask a person if he got to a place that could help him. In an earlier interaction that day with him, he needed a place that would cash a check without an ID, to get the paperwork to get the ID, and then get to a less temporary place to stay. He was ecstatic that he found a place to stay for a month. To think, I was worried about what shoes to wear.</p><p>The SRT carries printed copies of <a href="https://www.streetroots.org/rose-city-resource">Rose City Resource</a> from the organization <a href="https://www.streetroots.org/">Street Roots</a> so they can point people to community-based resources on the spot and tell them which bus or train to take to get there. I am so impressed by their system navigation - I have nearly zero geographical memory; therefore, by the grace of Google Maps go I. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4CLtQKUrFj0_owHFBXrXH3mQIePn_ONwytQYpn25p_yS8ulLERB1M6q-4id-VWcCDUqYXEQjKDE1TMZgLPD6QibnXYZWHOKNzSM68bSP3zcZP4E0Ie41FzV750s_Cr4kXSyhw4sYX8LJP6fNaaFKr7fRVo7qNEZzaJoPtFreSOJrwCqKJVJABifOQO1BO/s2000/SRT%20Backpack%20and%20Contents.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1606" data-original-width="2000" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4CLtQKUrFj0_owHFBXrXH3mQIePn_ONwytQYpn25p_yS8ulLERB1M6q-4id-VWcCDUqYXEQjKDE1TMZgLPD6QibnXYZWHOKNzSM68bSP3zcZP4E0Ie41FzV750s_Cr4kXSyhw4sYX8LJP6fNaaFKr7fRVo7qNEZzaJoPtFreSOJrwCqKJVJABifOQO1BO/w412-h331/SRT%20Backpack%20and%20Contents.jpg" width="412" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>The SRT backpack and contents for use on the Tri-Met system - Photo courtesy of TriMet</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>At each stop, the SRT approaches people in pairs for safety to do wellness checks. Granola bars, water, and maps, among other supplies are on offer. They have an affectionate reputation for being “the people with the backpacks with granola bars.” One man at first declined any supplies, but after some kind SRT persistence, he asked for socks (and got them)! </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>LOW-LEVEL ISSUES PREVIOUSLY DIRECTED TO 911</b></span></p><p>At the <a href="https://www.travelportland.com/attractions/pioneer-courthouse-square/">Pioneer Square</a> transit center, Portland’s “living room” and once THE place to be for entertainment and culture, a person curled up under a moving blanket was asked “Are you ok? You don’t have to interact with me, but can you just let me know you are ok? I have resources for you, but only if you want them.” </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iHnKaqcazmv4yUuFo5KmS8LXBmSuNCjXf-SyKEEnW_bA_dh8FTYPLux2XNVTBtDBz-ZWlKtCdjb_ToR88cPw_QSSuY2qN293TO2rMwNTDHQGVS9SZ1yvoWkNi8TsNHNHtSI2mHnIzZGMlDQO9NpRBSqL98YQ89pip0jIKfj1geG5d6aR2tDmV92D0V7z/s3835/Pioneer_Courthouse_Square_-_west_half.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2567" data-original-width="3835" height="327" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2iHnKaqcazmv4yUuFo5KmS8LXBmSuNCjXf-SyKEEnW_bA_dh8FTYPLux2XNVTBtDBz-ZWlKtCdjb_ToR88cPw_QSSuY2qN293TO2rMwNTDHQGVS9SZ1yvoWkNi8TsNHNHtSI2mHnIzZGMlDQO9NpRBSqL98YQ89pip0jIKfj1geG5d6aR2tDmV92D0V7z/w489-h327/Pioneer_Courthouse_Square_-_west_half.jpg" width="489" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span>Pioneer Square in Portland. A N/W view showing the west side of the square on a sunny day. Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Steve_Morgan">Steve Morgan</a>, CC Wikipedia</span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><br /></p><p>I learned that Pioneer Square is a privately owned public space, and given the current conditions downtown - alcohol and/or drug use, camping, urination, defecation, or indecent exposure, not to mention more overt crimes - they have their own security due to the volume of issues. I was saddened to see the private security simply shoo the person the SRT offered resources to away … from the living room. </p><p>I observed that people were unsure how to interact with the quite official-looking team. They assured me they were used to it. I expressed my concern that people think the SRT initiated the security guards’ action. They said it happens all the time, so they stay in their resource-offering lane and feel good about the help they provide. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>SOME HUMANS HELPED, INCLUDING ME</b></span></p><p>I started this series by questioning how humans can help other humans. Spending time with SRT members in the classroom and on the train has helped this human believe in Portland’s resilience. One SRT member told me they had more conservative ideas about how to deal with the homelessness crisis before joining the SRT, but after helping people on TriMet’s system in dire circumstances due to drug addiction or mental illness, they have more empathy and want to be a part of the solution. </p><p>It can be tempting to draw conclusions and reinforce biases about the fentanyl crisis, homelessness, and social unrest in order to join a conversation fueled by sensationalized local news and social media. These issues demand serious attention, but I want to end with a thought-provoking post by Alice McFlurry at <a href="https://beige.party/@Alice/111522455318458821">Beige.Party</a>: </p><p></p><blockquote><i>Let’s normalize saying, “I don’t know enough about the topic to be able to comment.” </i></blockquote><p></p><p>For me, it is a reminder to take the time to ask the questions before forming the hypothesis.</p><br />GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-25911334330189081592024-02-26T13:29:00.016-07:002024-03-09T00:35:56.218-07:00CPTED Conference in Palm Springs - Practical solutions vs public safety theater<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="375" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rOv4Tdwro-c" width="511" youtube-src-id="rOv4Tdwro-c"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>The CPTED Conference in Palm Springs is sponsored by </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span>CPTED/PCAM Canada and </span><span>CPTED USA, May 7-8, 2024</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>Some time ago we posted various blogs on the pros and cons of security technology as a solution to crime. Some technologies, we concluded from the evidence, provide an excellent addition to a safe environment as long as they are well-understood by the community and targeted strategically. The <a href="https://www.knightscope.com/products/k5">K-5 security robot</a> patrolling late-night underground parking might be one example.</p><p>But other technologies promise more than they provide. Over a year ago, Mateja wrote a blog on the <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/search?q=shotspotter">acoustic gun detection</a> system “Shotspotter” as one example of a technology that had mixed results. Mateja’s blog on the topic wrote that studies “conclude that [acoustic security technology] AGDT may actually be ineffective and inaccurate and can thus waste police resources” </p><p>Now the popular media (and more importantly, city decision-makers) have finally taken up our argument and tell an alarming story. The <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/24/us/shotspotter-cities-choose-not-to-use/index.html">CNN news stream</a> just reported that critics are sounding the alarm that the ShotSpotter gunfire detection system is ineffective</p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><b>PUBLIC SAFETY THEATER? </b></span></p><p>Despite over a hundred cities employing the technology (one wonders whether those cities used any form of criminological due diligence before their purchase?), it turns out cities like Chicago, Atlanta, and Portland have rejected this security technology. These are cities that direly need some respite from street crime. The article asks whether such technologies are <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/24/us/shotspotter-cities-choose-not-to-use/index.html">‘public safety theatre’</a></p><p>The reality is that in places like Houston, that use the technology, out of over 4,000 ShotSpotter alerts, only about 200 turned into arrests. Then again, 200 arrests following a gunfire detection alert isn't unimportant. Is the price tag worth that amount? That’s a good question and a simple answer might be – yes! Yet, if shots occur in a neighborhood with decent design and friendly community relationships, maybe residents will call the police on their own and report the details. That might just as easily result in an arrest. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>USA/CANADA JOINT CONFERENCE</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="374" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lWFwhJJHtW4" width="498" youtube-src-id="lWFwhJJHtW4"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span>The webcast on community-building through 2nd Generation CPTED</span></div><p><br /></p><p>I recently joined some other CPTED experts in describing an alternative to the tech security solution. We discussed a human-centered approach to safety and security called 2nd Generation CPTED. During the webcast, we showed examples where residents and other community members had a direct, and powerful, role in improving their own safety. We showed examples from schools in Oregon, skate parks in Saskatoon, Texas, and British Columbia, and city planning tactics in Florida and New Orleans. </p><p>This CPTED USA/CPTED-PCAM Canada webcast precedes the 2024 joint conference in Palm Springs, California. To see the latest in technology, how to marry sensible technology with community empowerment, and case studies of advanced examples of crime prevention, register for the May 7-8 conference <a href="https://cptedpalmsprings2024.regfox.com/cpted-conference-community-building-empowerment---a-holistic-cpted-approach">here</a>.</p><p>See you there.</p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-91913102037058154852024-01-31T14:59:00.005-07:002024-02-29T12:36:21.425-07:00Is This The World We Created? Part 2<p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKeKuX3ngsoRx-903veHUHKyGtjyF4U1julfSVghHl90W2rCtkIXK59hK_Kmi0PRBefijMqwkPBfgX5IEW04jMsRi_upLZwOwu8gPUeOAowSViiG8RHq8zpl0geYQpz31lsMtQOsHor_kmwLulG6tMQkNv5vDgl4rnQw1ezh4zSHgggvIC7ff2pz1ryVK/s4032/DENVER2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKeKuX3ngsoRx-903veHUHKyGtjyF4U1julfSVghHl90W2rCtkIXK59hK_Kmi0PRBefijMqwkPBfgX5IEW04jMsRi_upLZwOwu8gPUeOAowSViiG8RHq8zpl0geYQpz31lsMtQOsHor_kmwLulG6tMQkNv5vDgl4rnQw1ezh4zSHgggvIC7ff2pz1ryVK/w479-h360/DENVER2.jpeg" width="479" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From 30,000 feet, the city hides many blemishes. On the ground, not so much.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>In my last blog <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2024/01/is-this-world-we-created-homelessness.html">Is This The World We Created?</a> I discussed the growing problem of street homelessness in cities around the world. I presented facts and listed some responses. Most of those responses use a continuum of care in which people who are homeless must climb a staircase of supports with housing at the top as the final step.</p><p>Perhaps that is wrong? Maybe it should be the other way around in which care follows housing as in the <a href="https://cpted.net/resources/Documents/ICA%20Resources/White%20Papers/White%20Paper_%202016_Homelessness%20and%20CPTED.pdf">Housing First </a>program?</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>CRIME = HOMELESSNESS?</b></span></p><p>While there is not necessarily a connection between homelessness and crime, the public makes the crime/homelessness connection. Take for example recent <a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/10204366/save-our-streets-coalition-doubles-bc-public-safety/">media</a> comments by a British Columbia citizen group Save Our Streets:</p><p></p><blockquote><p>“Drug addictions and drug trade, mental health challenges, law enforcement, judicial reform, homelessness, are all factors…while governments have a long history of announcing policies and programs meant to respond to these issues, the desired results have not been realized.”</p></blockquote><p>So in the mind of the public it seems one issue relates to another. Further, there is growing discontent that current government programs are ineffective at solving the problem, a view supported by some of the research I discussed in the last blog. What can be done?</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>FINLAND</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="326" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kbEavDqA8iE" width="465" youtube-src-id="kbEavDqA8iE"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>In Canada and the U.S., we have <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2024/01/is-this-world-we-created-homelessness.html">homeless rates</a> of .8 and 1.7 per thousand people respectively. It’s much worse in other European countries. </p><p>What would it be like if we could reduce that to 0.1 of the total population? In other words, in the U.S. over 600,000 people live without shelter or food each night. If we cut that to 0.1 we could virtually eliminate most of the homelessness in our cities. </p><p>Why 0.1? Because it has already been done in Finland.</p><p>The video above explains how the country of Finland used a modified and expanded version of the Homes First program to accomplish precisely this result. <a href="https://youtu.be/0jt_6PBnCJE">Finland’s success</a> is not based on a staircase, but rather by starting with housing and then adding intensive and sustained supports later.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>WALLS MUST FALL</b></span></p><p>Of course, this is not a simple proposition and there are many walls in the way. </p><p>First, the Finnish response is not simply to house people but rather to provide intensive, and sustained, services immediately upon housing people. When the city of <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/homeless-medicine-hat-point-in-time-count-1.6600717">Medicine Hat, Canada</a> tried the Housing First method they had initial success. Sadly, they did not follow up with the intensive and sustained servicing that was available in Finland. Thus, five months after housing people, the problems and homeless rates returned.</p><p>Then there is the city of Wheat Ridge, Colorado. They shut down homes for the homeless in motels due to ongoing crime concerns, thereby forcing those residents back onto the street.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="327" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vofPq_FAsJA" width="429" youtube-src-id="vofPq_FAsJA"></iframe></div><p><br /></p><p>Clearly, the Finns understood the importance of intensive and sustained in-home support (in-house security, substance abuse counselling, mental health services, financial support, etc). They understood what would happen without that support.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?</b></span></p><p>Finally, there is the issue of cost. This is not a trivial obstacle. However, as Charles Marohn reveals in his book <a href="https://www.strongtowns.org/strong-towns-book">Strong Towns</a>, there is already tremendous wasteful municipal spending on zero rate-of-return municipal projects. </p><p>I made this point 15 years ago in my blog <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2009/06/give-me-1184-inchand-ill-take-me-mile.html ">Give me a $1,184 inch…and I’ll make me a mile</a>. In that blog, I unpacked a $2.67 billion highway connector project in Houston that cost $75 million per mile, or $1,184 per inch (in a city that already had between 14,000 to 30,000 homeless people). </p><p>Just imagine... giving up a single mile of that roadway connector could create over $75 million for homes. And since former SafeGrowth blogger Tod Schneider tells us they have developed <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/search?q=conestoga+">Conestoga Huts </a>for homeless people that cost $1,500 each, that means a single mile of Houston’s connector could free up over 50,000 homes, far more than enough to house every single homeless person in Houston. </p><p>This back-of-envelope (and admittedly simple) calculation ignores many other more sophisticated ways to make enhanced Housing First a reality. It also ignores other walls, like figuring out where to locate those small homes without triggering the ire of the Not-In-My-Backyard crowd (a crowd that, incidentally, is already being encroached on by uncontrolled tent cities and unsanitary encampments).</p><p>And while we are making those calculations, let’s remember how living without a home or food can turn into a horror show, as this blog has documented in the past when some Denver residents without homes <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2022/09/a-social-time-bomb-and-night-of-terror.html">were attacked by flash-bomb grenades</a>. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBCwf2Ofv_rXxrlvzRGH3zu7_D4R1rBzOJoLo5JF4oW0n1Uuz_Nyd_t36jFF8v77uIGFJGJHz1dOg7T3JIJPpa4rNF9Qq_SY44Ymt8lBwa3Lu0cL9-gjodf4JMeINgegdsyk8P72SnKSX-KV4QCCnMVYe5bhgx8O6ZkcowHwko4OrlAlriQ5jXLkFauAkr/s1064/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-22%20at%2010.50.17%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="1064" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBCwf2Ofv_rXxrlvzRGH3zu7_D4R1rBzOJoLo5JF4oW0n1Uuz_Nyd_t36jFF8v77uIGFJGJHz1dOg7T3JIJPpa4rNF9Qq_SY44Ymt8lBwa3Lu0cL9-gjodf4JMeINgegdsyk8P72SnKSX-KV4QCCnMVYe5bhgx8O6ZkcowHwko4OrlAlriQ5jXLkFauAkr/w514-h234/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-22%20at%2010.50.17%20PM.png" width="514" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photos of injuries sustained by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile/100000391091704/search/?q=flash%20bang">Molly</a> during a flash-bang grenade attack - a crime still unsolved</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Surely we can create a better world for those most in need.</p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-29720015216687967852024-01-21T02:03:00.007-07:002024-01-27T06:31:57.579-07:00"Is This The World We Created" - Homelessness in 2024<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWs13q_YBO0pNL2CH-UPYZZAExx2sSGG53Uhbx8frf0YAFWT6-h_P-mWZbPp4KntldjFfJCBBIYkivwjMTQJtLYx1e7iRlojJ9l0X3Oqx9YIVeBw9Fa-d5c8eTAadMwxyz4qrO_vff2pskfK9xXMAtsur7eEyThq6efG9zbxuqsHVmeSJn1B_pfntqio2k/s4032/IMG_2763.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWs13q_YBO0pNL2CH-UPYZZAExx2sSGG53Uhbx8frf0YAFWT6-h_P-mWZbPp4KntldjFfJCBBIYkivwjMTQJtLYx1e7iRlojJ9l0X3Oqx9YIVeBw9Fa-d5c8eTAadMwxyz4qrO_vff2pskfK9xXMAtsur7eEyThq6efG9zbxuqsHVmeSJn1B_pfntqio2k/w471-h354/IMG_2763.jpeg" width="471" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City streets and laneways are cold, dangerous, and lonely places to live</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>I recently chastised a colleague for using uncouth and demeaning terms to describe the unhoused. His view is that homelessness is a selfish and personal choice to avoid responsibility. His views are shared by many and perhaps that is not surprising considering the maze people must thread along public sidewalks or parks filled with used needles, unhygienic conditions, vandalism, unruly behavior and, sometimes, aggressive threats. No one wants to feel unsafe walking on the street; no one wants their property stolen or their loved ones threatened.</p><p>I understand the frustration. I understand it even though people who are unhoused are at a <a href="https://cpted.net/resources/Documents/ICA%20Resources/White%20Papers/White%20Paper_%202016_Homelessness%20and%20CPTED.pdf">much higher risk of violence</a> from each other, than passers-by are at risk from homeless people</p><p>I understand it because we have heard the same story in neighborhoods everywhere we deliver SafeGrowth, from Vancouver, BC, and Portland, Oregon, to northern Canada and cities across California. The story is the same; increasing numbers of the unhoused, out-of-control toxic street drugs, and mental illness.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4M3qq45hlXT9HxGmtOGkPBM-ig2dU27ffRTzPEPx8n56BqCOgTQl78Vul3aT8JUIXX3fG3CrHFb5-3b54vVnESKASC8P61jehVMx0tP7r2Aw0qv9xu-Bkb7NeE_HNK8-ruWKCMJOl6rpe8TKwP8HfJ3c7s7fzUHUMod7FhzZEk0NTE23OHZ9kOLsS2g3b/s4032/IMG_1930.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="341" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4M3qq45hlXT9HxGmtOGkPBM-ig2dU27ffRTzPEPx8n56BqCOgTQl78Vul3aT8JUIXX3fG3CrHFb5-3b54vVnESKASC8P61jehVMx0tP7r2Aw0qv9xu-Bkb7NeE_HNK8-ruWKCMJOl6rpe8TKwP8HfJ3c7s7fzUHUMod7FhzZEk0NTE23OHZ9kOLsS2g3b/w454-h341/IMG_1930.jpeg" width="454" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting for a Prince George, BC safe injection site to open in the morning</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>For decades, I have had personal and professional experience with those living on the street. In all that time, I have yet to find a single person who willingly gave up a roof over their head and food in their belly and instead chose a difficult life on the street, being cold at night, suffering a high risk of violence, and having little food. </p><p>With sanitary, safe, and sheltered choices, every one of those people I have known or have spoken to, chooses that option over the street. The obstacles they face have more do to with addiction, mental illness, or debilitating poverty.</p><p>And yet ignorant views arise and indifference abounds. As the rock band Queen sang at the 1985 Live Aid concert, we must ask: "Is This The World We Created?" </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuuL2pSQiO2Yo0LA9H6PBaJC9LhEY-IjmxDtG8RTh8v0U3yOLbNAd4hp6YdbSvNUk75PhpGRnt0ztWwXf2DIri64XUY772l8LX5RdTUIC_4eLlPFweznOcneZ9j11oeSGuLVyjwHiM5I92-rCw1ygKCpAsUIJXjmmeNPxuAxz5YQ6XhKuRHAIDxTmSnp7A/s4032/IMG_1940.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuuL2pSQiO2Yo0LA9H6PBaJC9LhEY-IjmxDtG8RTh8v0U3yOLbNAd4hp6YdbSvNUk75PhpGRnt0ztWwXf2DIri64XUY772l8LX5RdTUIC_4eLlPFweznOcneZ9j11oeSGuLVyjwHiM5I92-rCw1ygKCpAsUIJXjmmeNPxuAxz5YQ6XhKuRHAIDxTmSnp7A/w472-h354/IMG_1940.jpeg" width="472" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moccasin Flats homeless tent city in Prince George, BC</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqhJgyWcudLIzsJ3CtqcjJwQGvL-03KIViwWcWOBbfaRaO1HijCTjB-S-Vr4_JAi-3I7bDZGgom3UmeZgB0ZGGOIMxDNOTouUt2Y8rv23ox6FsfnOngmCeigUpTZ70K1wEoesF-uSG02AJi5ZMFf4j0fabPQdrGWVBHK3sRHpW7UeiSzoqh6RFQLuV3fk/s4032/IMG_1944.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="363" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvqhJgyWcudLIzsJ3CtqcjJwQGvL-03KIViwWcWOBbfaRaO1HijCTjB-S-Vr4_JAi-3I7bDZGgom3UmeZgB0ZGGOIMxDNOTouUt2Y8rv23ox6FsfnOngmCeigUpTZ70K1wEoesF-uSG02AJi5ZMFf4j0fabPQdrGWVBHK3sRHpW7UeiSzoqh6RFQLuV3fk/w484-h363/IMG_1944.jpeg" width="484" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An attempt to set up a community garden for unhoused people in Prince George, BC</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Homelessness emerges from a toxic formula of poverty, unaffordable housing, drug abuse, and mental illness. Of those, the Opioid Crisis triggers the greatest harm. Thousands die on the streets each year from Opioids, particularly fentanyl. </p><p><a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/895945/fentanyl-overdose-deaths-us/">Statistica</a> reports that in the U.S. fentanyl and related drug overdoses on the street resulted in 70,000 dead in 2021 alone (up from 2,600 in 2011). Clearly, while homelessness has been with us for ages, street drug overdoses pose a major public health catastrophe. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>RESPONSES</b></span></p><p>There is no shortage of responses to homelessness, including substance abuse tactics. In this blog we have been investigating the problem, and reporting on mitigation methods, for over 15 years. We have written dozens of posts on the topic of homelessness. </p><p>Last summer I wrote about a harm reduction safe injection program in <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2023/06/innovations-in-responding-to-street.html">Prince George</a>, British Columbia. That community <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/moccasin-flats-decriminalization-safe-streets-bylaw-1.6812437">continues to struggle</a> with ineffective responses. In Beth Dufek’s last blog, she wrote about our SafeGrowth training of another response case - the <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2024/01/whos-on-call-in-portland-trimets-safety.html">Portland’s TriMet Safety Response team</a> on the Portland transportation system</p><p>Here are others:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>2021 – Tod Schneider blogged about community-supported shelters in <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2021/01/community-supported-shelters-latest-for.html">Oregon</a></li><li>2020 – SafeGrowth advocate Jon Munn wrote about homelessness in <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2020/05/social-distancing-and-homelessness.html">Victoria, BC’s Topaz Park</a> during COVID</li><li>2019 – I blogged on inaccurate media reporting of Seattle’s homeless problem compared to <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2019/04/seattle-is-dying-clearing-smoke.html">Tulsa, Oklahoma</a></li><li>2018 – A blog on the words and poetry of homeless people in <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2018/05/to-phoenix-we-can-help-you-do-better.html">Toronto</a></li><li>2017 – Reducing homelessness in Australia <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2017/01/reducing-homelessness-australian.html">Part 1</a> and <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2017/02/reducing-homelessness-tiny-house.html">Part 2</a></li><li>2010 – <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2010/09/tent-city-teardowns-family.html">Colorado, Springs</a>, Colorado’s police department response to homelessness </li></ul><p></p><p>Most of those blogs emerged from our SafeGrowth work on homelessness, livability, and crime prevention over the past few decades. We also co-wrote the International CPTED Association’s <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2018/05/to-phoenix-we-can-help-you-do-better.html">White Paper on homelessness</a></p><p>All these years later, the problem worsens!</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnw15PoqNVARZRzf5y_Q6ukT6ruH4b1KRtIShMgjh_Sa6-3i3WKAF62lS81CAiD8jdIuP2ZqhMN-uC52PD-Dmxaeb1kJHyzCOqHdR8-chlagRcxqNhQDyZxZMejwYCPpXDvMLDD_8RzqksvGZXgZhO7BMwJp_i7e0evauga_-FckLbMaNglZM0_oBLfSa/s2875/IMG_1698%202.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1751" data-original-width="2875" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnw15PoqNVARZRzf5y_Q6ukT6ruH4b1KRtIShMgjh_Sa6-3i3WKAF62lS81CAiD8jdIuP2ZqhMN-uC52PD-Dmxaeb1kJHyzCOqHdR8-chlagRcxqNhQDyZxZMejwYCPpXDvMLDD_8RzqksvGZXgZhO7BMwJp_i7e0evauga_-FckLbMaNglZM0_oBLfSa/w449-h274/IMG_1698%202.JPG" width="449" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost invisible, almost forgotten, a woman sleeps under an overpass</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>AROUND THE GLOBE</b></span></p><p>Global <a href="https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/homelessness-by-country">homeless rates</a> are pretty horrible.</p><p>Nigeria, Egypt, Pakistan, Syria, and Honduras, all have some of the worst homeless rates in the world. In Nigeria, Egypt, and DR Congo alone, there are more homeless people than the entire population of California (over 40 million). </p><p>In the America’s, the majority of homeless people live in the U.S. (580,000) and Mexico (456,000). But raw numbers tell us only part of the larger picture. We need to calculate rates per population to compare apples to apples. When we do that, even with the shoddy state of homelessness statistics, the picture is bleak. </p><p>Most governments use “point-in-time” counts of homeless people and they have different categories for shelter occupants, temporary and chronic homeless, and so forth. The numbers don’t always line up. Also, the data are notoriously vulnerable to politics. Some countries, such as China and Japan, offer up very suspect data that cannot be verified and are therefore useless.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJtpdA9VFxzGoPld-4CapvdbsE2AOGbb-vSGWXBQ7rCJWLD-z3U9Xow_UyD6F6_H8co9oOHcXCYHUR86bfL8rQkiGL-xH6GGLYBBYT3PLFRNia0aSeEq_ejGcYw1gXROjG6GUOJsywpgnpwkw8RmxdE5sHYHgOd6H-l-7nfgWhJ-sJCXabaYZwufyrOuNZ/s3810/Barbados-homeless%20tents_2019.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2142" data-original-width="3810" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJtpdA9VFxzGoPld-4CapvdbsE2AOGbb-vSGWXBQ7rCJWLD-z3U9Xow_UyD6F6_H8co9oOHcXCYHUR86bfL8rQkiGL-xH6GGLYBBYT3PLFRNia0aSeEq_ejGcYw1gXROjG6GUOJsywpgnpwkw8RmxdE5sHYHgOd6H-l-7nfgWhJ-sJCXabaYZwufyrOuNZ/w482-h271/Barbados-homeless%20tents_2019.jpeg" width="482" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homeless encampment in Bridgetown, Barbados</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>In spite of all these limitations, we can piece together a rough image based on the <a href="https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/homelessness-by-country">World Population Review</a>, and various data sources like Canada’s <a href="https://madeinca.ca/homelessness-statistics-canada/">point-in-time counts</a> (Canada’s, in particular, is probably under-reported). </p><p>Here is the ugly picture from street homeless statistics 2022-2023, with the highest rates of homelessness to the lowest for selected countries.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7ctbZVtQoK3vXINEyAC_dVH4femaiVxDYvuTkHE14uzeo81zyGX_X7nzl217tlhyphenhyphenyFEt-3uxjyvaiOdmX1yUIunDy1AhqF7Q8MTUT0mmAhnWDMDqIcOx2yNnzml_fdlCk1S_CMe3mlRo8ZxWU0WP3BeAFmiYMcTPHH3Emk1k2plY_FhP8stiTA_9VY33/s1560/Screenshot%202024-01-20%20at%202.17.00%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="616" data-original-width="1560" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW7ctbZVtQoK3vXINEyAC_dVH4femaiVxDYvuTkHE14uzeo81zyGX_X7nzl217tlhyphenhyphenyFEt-3uxjyvaiOdmX1yUIunDy1AhqF7Q8MTUT0mmAhnWDMDqIcOx2yNnzml_fdlCk1S_CMe3mlRo8ZxWU0WP3BeAFmiYMcTPHH3Emk1k2plY_FhP8stiTA_9VY33/w550-h216/Screenshot%202024-01-20%20at%202.17.00%20PM.png" width="470" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>It might be obvious that a very poor country like Guatemala has such a high homeless rate, but how is it that wealthy countries like the UK, France, and Australia are doing so poorly? Perhaps Australia’s warmer weather inflates their point-of-time counts? </p><p>Australia’s news outlets report that the rates are worsening every year and 3 states suffer the worst – Queensland, Western Australia, and New South Wales. According to the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/aug/03/more-than-1600-australians-pushed-into-homelessness-each-month-as-housing-crisis-deepens-report-finds">Guardian newspaper</a>, in Australia last year “demand for homelessness services rose 7.5% across Australia amid soaring rents and record low vacancy rates.”</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHRG9OSlulwuGQP4VKWib3t1XWKjTnCV1K2bwZoUY6EHwuMmt23r91uyLHseYj3G3XURyq-J7i8K83J5FRoLMKQqFMVBSBxGf7LNWsmiD0Yuc8wqCJF3eBR-HwDrNHpvQdT07NboamItTWy27gOjKLMzekQnM0sDQlUc483COi5U_b12VBwRPePgwsMmh/s4032/IMG_1837.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZHRG9OSlulwuGQP4VKWib3t1XWKjTnCV1K2bwZoUY6EHwuMmt23r91uyLHseYj3G3XURyq-J7i8K83J5FRoLMKQqFMVBSBxGf7LNWsmiD0Yuc8wqCJF3eBR-HwDrNHpvQdT07NboamItTWy27gOjKLMzekQnM0sDQlUc483COi5U_b12VBwRPePgwsMmh/w350-h466/IMG_1837.jpeg" width="350" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hostile architecture to deter the unhoused from sitting in front of <br />a Marylin Monroe statue in Palm Springs, California</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>NOTHING TO BRAG ABOUT</b></span></p><p>What of the UK and France? </p><p>We hear much about European illegal immigration inflating homeless numbers, but if that is true, why is Germany’s rate so much lower? In the U.S., the political classes blame illegal immigration for homelessness increases. Yet, those arguments fall apart when you compare homeless rates with those of some of Europe’s largest countries.</p><p>Is illegal immigration really so much worse in those European countries? Is the correlation between illegal immigration and homelessness just nonsense? </p><p>Canada might look good from a global perspective, but 35,000 homeless people on the street each night is nothing to brag about. In addition, we know of the link between homelessness and drug overdoses, and Canada lost over 8,000 people last year to street opioid overdoses. Over the past 7 years, according to one <a href="https://globalnews.ca/news/10216880/homelessness-and-opioid-use-ottawa/">source</a>, the toll is over 40,000 dead - each one of them is a son, daughter, brother, sister, mother, father, or grandparent. Each one, to at least somebody, is a friend, now gone.</p><p>And it is getting worse.</p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: medium;"><i>Next blog – What can be done? Does anything work?</i></span></p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-62267486235845726772024-01-14T20:50:00.004-07:002024-01-16T07:32:45.625-07:00Who's on call in Portland? TriMet's Safety Response Team - Part 2<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNbzOF3PcidPNnHJigAHCKKt3cdMwtKOobrUnVMXAtOEYcdiN4McJY_pWsA0Ph0hErNGhs5mKx7rCcR9p76nfR-TBoB9QdcJ4rJvyx2gqR-t6LJ43Ve8mv2-c1q_dQNmzW81k84rUHHkOiEocnVin2nkJzo4aGjznL-S8NQ13x76Ij3rP_BSofEn6deG6J/s4605/PDX%20adam-blank-unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3684" data-original-width="4605" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNbzOF3PcidPNnHJigAHCKKt3cdMwtKOobrUnVMXAtOEYcdiN4McJY_pWsA0Ph0hErNGhs5mKx7rCcR9p76nfR-TBoB9QdcJ4rJvyx2gqR-t6LJ43Ve8mv2-c1q_dQNmzW81k84rUHHkOiEocnVin2nkJzo4aGjznL-S8NQ13x76Ij3rP_BSofEn6deG6J/w468-h375/PDX%20adam-blank-unsplash.jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Portland, Oregon. Photo by Adam Blank on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/portland-oregon">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="https://www.safegrowth.org/beth-dufek.html">Beth Dufek</a> is a writer and marketing strategist for clients who are improving the built environment. She runs her own consulting firm in the Pacific Northwest. Previously she worked with the LISC non-profit organization, facilitated SafeGrowth projects in Milwaukee, and later worked with neighborhood groups in Seattle, Washington. She was named one of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 for her commitment to civic engagement and her ability to build trust in communities. As a member of the SafeGrowth Network, she teaches SafeGrowth in cities across the U.S. This is Beth’s second blog on responding to people in crisis on the street.</span></i></p><p><br /></p><p>Over the past few years, we have provided <a href="https://www.safegrowth.org/what-we-do1.html#training">SafeGrowth training</a> with TriMet – the bus, light rail, and commuter rail service provider of Portland, Oregon. In my previous Part 1 <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2023/11/who-you-gonna-call-appropriate-response.html">blog</a>, I promised to write about the Tri-Met Safety Response Team (SRT). I continue to be impressed with their much-needed rider outreach in Portland, the place I now call home.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWshInGlWeiC6k26WjT1WwtPTH_FJq1leUcI28Z9TTHvbBnU17ZLQLCYidVhn1AKJJID27IV-wHusK5LUluT2x67s4THHa4cP34K0vjPjDv5938FVyRAD501bPEKvP6QUz-ZzltknIqmN7INQcHgtGrE3S-KW6qo7ssxZ5_Plq-33GRHG53atjqNfz99m/s2100/SRT%20group%201.Jan23.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1181" data-original-width="2100" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYWshInGlWeiC6k26WjT1WwtPTH_FJq1leUcI28Z9TTHvbBnU17ZLQLCYidVhn1AKJJID27IV-wHusK5LUluT2x67s4THHa4cP34K0vjPjDv5938FVyRAD501bPEKvP6QUz-ZzltknIqmN7INQcHgtGrE3S-KW6qo7ssxZ5_Plq-33GRHG53atjqNfz99m/w480-h270/SRT%20group%201.Jan23.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TriMet's SRT group - January 2023 <br />Photo courtesy of TriMet</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>THE COMMUNITY SAFETY PUZZLE </b></span></p><p>TriMet’s Board approved $1.8M in November 2020 for the Reimagine Public Safety initiative to reshape safety and security by taking a “community engagement first” approach. That was right around the time TriMet reached out to Greg Saville and SafeGrowth for help. In November 2021 twenty TriMet safety, security, and maintenance staff participated in the agency’s first SafeGrowth training. Tom Hunt, <a href="https://trimet.org/publicsafety/">Safety Response Manager</a> for TriMet, was a participant. </p><p>Tom has been in law enforcement and community safety in the area for over 30 years. He told me Portland’s opioid crisis has been around for decades. It was manageable (if that is even possible) when smaller mental health crisis support sites were scattered throughout the city. In the mid-2000s, due to a variety of factors (mostly financial, maybe political), the healthcare system consolidated by closing satellite crisis and recovery centers, making it more difficult for people to get help. </p><p>It was around that time TriMet started to experience an increase in “non-destination” riders, those who use the transit system - vehicles and transit stops - not so much for transportation, but for shelter and yes, to buy, sell, and take illegal substances. It got worse <a href="https://www.opb.org/article/2023/05/30/oregon-worsening-drug-crisis-fentanyl-overdoses/">during the COVID pandemic</a>.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrkOgULczEaCA1z7QvdE8h7nO0t61onoxroO1xt07fgrfuREQMS9Sny9e26a9U0NAv5UWSY43Ht5NdGfup6LA_Voa-AdVjlCn4q0Iq9YtqBE0BryaBL8StBggxp_Vmo2LBn3NfHWkwk9teEY4NjaxEuuUk1772BH-kiGzUWtxZSAOYGlkVlVBxmmhuysc/s2980/SRT%20on%20the%20system%20(2).Jan23.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1781" data-original-width="2980" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrkOgULczEaCA1z7QvdE8h7nO0t61onoxroO1xt07fgrfuREQMS9Sny9e26a9U0NAv5UWSY43Ht5NdGfup6LA_Voa-AdVjlCn4q0Iq9YtqBE0BryaBL8StBggxp_Vmo2LBn3NfHWkwk9teEY4NjaxEuuUk1772BH-kiGzUWtxZSAOYGlkVlVBxmmhuysc/w475-h283/SRT%20on%20the%20system%20(2).Jan23.jpg" width="475" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SRT patrolling the transit system, January 2023 <br />Photo courtesy of TriMet</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PIECES OF THE PUZZLE</b></span></p><p>Reimagine Public Safety launched the Safety Response pilot program by training seven SRT members who started riding the system in September 2021 to reach riders in need or distress. It became a permanent TriMet Safety & Security program in July 2023. </p><p>The SRT works alongside the agency’s <a href="https://trimet.org/about/personnel.htm">dedicated security team</a> to respond to calls and to build relationships with frequent riders. </p><p>At the time of this post, the <a href="https://news.trimet.org/2023/07/video-trimets-expanding-safety-response-team-recognized-as-part-of-industry-leading-honor-for-agencys-security-and-safety-initiatives/ ">SRT has 57 members</a>. They find and support riders and community members who are experiencing homelessness, mental health crises, and drug and alcohol addiction. By engaging with riders, they can discourage inappropriate and illegal behavior and provide referrals for housing and support services. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>FINDING THE MISSING PIECES</b></span></p><p>Many people in their cars may take a quick glance at a bus at a stoplight and see a few people looking at their phones or riders carrying an unusual amount of stuff, and some may be sleeping. That may be all you see, but it’s different for the SRT.</p><p>The SRT members see much of what media outlets push out about Portland: open-air drug markets and drug use, scores of unhoused people, and other concerns. I’m not denying this is present but, in my experience, Portland also has a spirit of perseverance. </p><p>In our SafeGrowth class, one SRT participant let us know, “SRT members have had hands on a dead body when we were sadly unsuccessful in saving their life after an overdose.” It still gives me chills. And yet, I frequently see SRT members engaging with riders who others might ignore. I’ve become a bit of a fan girl, pointing out SRT members to friends with excitement. They are compassionate and genuinely proud of their work.</p><p>I’m reminded of a new local campaign: <a href="https://www.make-portland.com/">Portland is what we make it</a>. TriMet makes Portland resilient.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER</b></span></p><p>It’s no wonder TriMet has expanded the program, won awards, and is respected among its peers.</p><p>According to Tom, TriMet co-founded the National Transit and Vulnerable Population Working Group, a national group of transit agencies that meet monthly to share information and develop best practices. Austin, San Francisco, Denver, and Los Angeles transit agency staff are among its members. Aaron Gordon wrote in <a href="https://www.vice.com/en/article/y3wvq5/they-just-need-a-safe-place-to-be-how-public-transit-became-the-last-safety-net-in-america">Vice</a> that public transit has become the last safety net in America.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBaMxdzCsSGAIL9JmP0AvLT9CSdbo9Cz9q-p3GfWRBBZ8OXdm2j0QuF5p0J8_LpzEFe-y4fIgomx4VP8GZ-qbIEoNuFMRtZtsp5xwcnhayj4KPpHGHUnSM97TbgqkUCFYFPx1UTsLR8jL_1Fzz8DC-OG58bY0P_gunwZTbt8teXC57bzcgc_8kMetlejuJ/s3264/Denver%20francisco-b-unsplash.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBaMxdzCsSGAIL9JmP0AvLT9CSdbo9Cz9q-p3GfWRBBZ8OXdm2j0QuF5p0J8_LpzEFe-y4fIgomx4VP8GZ-qbIEoNuFMRtZtsp5xwcnhayj4KPpHGHUnSM97TbgqkUCFYFPx1UTsLR8jL_1Fzz8DC-OG58bY0P_gunwZTbt8teXC57bzcgc_8kMetlejuJ/w345-h460/Denver%20francisco-b-unsplash.jpg" width="345" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Denver's Union Station platform<br />Photo by Francisco B on <a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/light-rail-denver">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>SRT was also featured in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration Newsletter for “developing community-based programs that supplement transit security officers and enhance the rider experience.” </p><p>Additionally, TriMet won an APTA 2023 Rail Safety, Security, and Emergency Management Gold <a href="https://www.transit.dot.gov/sites/fta.dot.gov/files/2023-07/TSO-Spotlight-Newsletter-July-2023.pdf">Award</a> for “reimagining their security approach and moving to multifaceted, multi-tiered security teams and a more strategic approach.”</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>THE NEXT PIECE</b></span></p><p>But wait, there’s more. I have been invited to ride with the SRT. </p><p>Stay tuned! </p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-83383317439967787772023-12-31T20:59:00.007-07:002024-01-01T13:15:59.720-07:00Solidarity - a unity of purpose in 2024<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHq9kj5LBtgtdeHj4h9tG_ug67lWrGzfOnc0lKi0CWGzylNKfrxHIovHpMLzYbPV7xUmEQClt4xkeVW5A8jiRMyrIgRCgPVGvkdU_Iw8uQ0-xcppDtT5PeJQ6sgmk9zLVdM73dOzAmuknkUqGMsdhKIVoWPrpiMU5nOu3RI2Nm3rIv8gs0ZFtwJS2JiJ2/s4018/shane-rounce-DNkoNXQti3c-unsplash%202.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4018" data-original-width="3262" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcHq9kj5LBtgtdeHj4h9tG_ug67lWrGzfOnc0lKi0CWGzylNKfrxHIovHpMLzYbPV7xUmEQClt4xkeVW5A8jiRMyrIgRCgPVGvkdU_Iw8uQ0-xcppDtT5PeJQ6sgmk9zLVdM73dOzAmuknkUqGMsdhKIVoWPrpiMU5nOu3RI2Nm3rIv8gs0ZFtwJS2JiJ2/w324-h399/shane-rounce-DNkoNXQti3c-unsplash%202.jpeg" width="324" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solidarity means caring for others - Photo - <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/a-group-of-people-holding-hands-on-top-of-a-tree-DNkoNXQti3c">Shane Rounce</a> (CC)<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Mateja Mihinjac</span></i></p><p>As I reflect on the past year, I’m listening to pyrotechnics outside. Despite calls to give up pyrotechnics for the safety and peace of people and animals, our cities still sound like a warzone during New Year’s celebrations. This brought to mind solidarity with our fellow citizens. </p><p>This year has been yet another turbulent year for my country. One of the major events in 2023 was the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2023_Slovenia_floods ">August floods</a>, the worst in Slovenia’s recent history. </p><p>People died in the flooding and many others had to vacate their homes due to water and mud damage and unsanitary conditions. Some lost their homes completely. Infrastructure in some towns was demolished and bridges once connecting towns with the rest of the country were suddenly washed away. Factories lost their equipment. Pets and other domesticated animals were separated from their carers. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoisNILI9aCIU5_PkNFYeiH_m-nn7_8f9hbDrihrIK59yRFZZkduBI1kN2fP02UFqbzjdIABeeznKRFxR3SzavMgGkHO9OkIxudrvmg0PmUob6MNKU223aOMfL0_aZ3YgAXeuRlKZZ37scZilXwyMNzI8JNBXLGhg83EdPiWJiGPZ4G3LzhbGRr_IRb57/s2048/floods%202.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjoisNILI9aCIU5_PkNFYeiH_m-nn7_8f9hbDrihrIK59yRFZZkduBI1kN2fP02UFqbzjdIABeeznKRFxR3SzavMgGkHO9OkIxudrvmg0PmUob6MNKU223aOMfL0_aZ3YgAXeuRlKZZ37scZilXwyMNzI8JNBXLGhg83EdPiWJiGPZ4G3LzhbGRr_IRb57/w467-h311/floods%202.jpeg" width="467" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: center;">A destroyed bridge in the village Strahovica during Slovene floods - Photo by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/vladars/53104230001/ (CC licence)">Anže Malovrh/STA</a></p><div><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Yet, during these difficult times, it was remarkable to see such solidarity amongst citizens, many of whom had previously never met. They organised themselves into groups and went out to neighbourhoods to help people with the clean-up. They opened their residences and temporarily housed others who could not return home. </p><p>Firefighters, rescue and emergency workers both professional and volunteer, risked their lives and worked around the clock to help save lives and possessions. Sports personalities, popular musicians and other public figures donated funds towards the rebuild. Everyday citizens dug into their pocketbooks and donated cash and whatever else they could.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>SOLIDARITY FOUND</b></span></p><p>This kind of solidarity and unity – known by other terms in SafeGrowth such as social capital and social cohesion – is not uncommon during major catastrophic events. In our forthcoming SafeGrowth book next year, we dig deeply into the power of social capital and cohesion and we show how SafeGrowth employs it to transform troubled neighborhoods.</p><p>Over the years, we have frequently been brought into cities following natural disasters to help communities recover. Building social capital and solidarity is at the core of our work. </p><p>For example, we taught SafeGrowth to communities following the devastating 2011 earthquake in <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2014/11/exciting-times-in-middle-earth.html">Christchurch, New Zealand</a>. Before that, we brought it to the residents of the <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2010/07/fighting-new-orleans-blues-hollygrove.html">Hollygrove neighborhood</a> in New Orleans, USA following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-bA3oFT3h6MzF4aUZRnFzGeuiGh0AKHhMD1LDrOKqeWlSYbc7mFITfPXHgafHlY7n-Ym56_rajJCaMBk7hpxOkomqiEkjz2RljX8W5TWfthmDO5v6ssxgbU-NnsX4mCTM6gQQX4W0niZp3bt3gfX3kDNvbJQI7WmmXw3FkxpIxyZXlQlfUqKoGqonSdm/s4000/a%20hello%20can%20save%20lives.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ-bA3oFT3h6MzF4aUZRnFzGeuiGh0AKHhMD1LDrOKqeWlSYbc7mFITfPXHgafHlY7n-Ym56_rajJCaMBk7hpxOkomqiEkjz2RljX8W5TWfthmDO5v6ssxgbU-NnsX4mCTM6gQQX4W0niZp3bt3gfX3kDNvbJQI7WmmXw3FkxpIxyZXlQlfUqKoGqonSdm/w423-h317/a%20hello%20can%20save%20lives.jpeg" width="423" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Sweden, we discovered examples of community caring. This yellow area is called "A hello can save lives". It's a special space reserved for those who appreciate a friendly conversation - solidarity with others who might be lonely</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Both catastrophic events served as a catalyst for solidarity among residents within the neighbourhoods as they came together to rebuild their neighbourhoods. In Christchurch, people received strong institutional support from the city, including former SafeGrowth practitioner Sue Ramsay in her work with the <a href="https://youtu.be/rnGOyotlppA?si=k3BmuDYEpH-uFbcU">West Riccarton SafeGrowth group</a>. </p><p>In Hollygrove, residents received organisational support from non-profit organisations like the Louisiana chapter of AARP and the work of SafeGrowth practitioner and urban planner <a href="https://www.safegrowth.org/jason-tudor.html">Jason Tudor</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><i></i></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4syL0_rcv4fbWqPTxcTfWwWNSd7UWPXhQQdQbzbiARzWLQ9RaImchGa2fle5GQ7ZXKUklfJ9U0NKITOZO0KaUmp2J5f1ezlhR6-2o-08VmbilAi5HJO7OFJy2U0IH0vEhNWkFezQgaikhqgAzeJ3_Qkozo8ottROVOPDT7Tjlq1F8GMD-g7Izzo618CG7/s4000/solidarity%201.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4syL0_rcv4fbWqPTxcTfWwWNSd7UWPXhQQdQbzbiARzWLQ9RaImchGa2fle5GQ7ZXKUklfJ9U0NKITOZO0KaUmp2J5f1ezlhR6-2o-08VmbilAi5HJO7OFJy2U0IH0vEhNWkFezQgaikhqgAzeJ3_Qkozo8ottROVOPDT7Tjlq1F8GMD-g7Izzo618CG7/w447-h335/solidarity%201.jpeg" style="cursor: move;" width="447" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SafeGrowth training in Palm Springs, California, 2023.<br />Residents and police working together for the common good <br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>SOLIDARITY LOST?</b></span></p><p>In both cases above, a strong voice and unselfish actions came directly from local residents. Solidarity, it turns out, matters a great deal.</p><p>While such expressions of unity in the case of my country, as well as Christchurch and Hollygrove, make me teary with pride for fellow humans, I always wonder… Why does it take a catastrophe for people to step together? Will this connectedness last?</p><p>Only a few years back we experienced a similar sense of connectedness during COVID. Those were hopeful times when we believed this would become the new normal. We could see people starting to care more about each other and appreciating more their effects on environmental pollution. But it did not last. </p><p>Unfortunately, those “new” behaviours quickly returned to “normal”. Today people seem to be more alienated than ever. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37277183/">Analyses of that period</a> suggest the initial wave of solidarity needs to be institutionally supported to retain its sustainability.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOAKbsZeU5w8JZrEC3bsAqm-RAL5Okw4k1HgYCFfCi3xIPqfESZarZqN1SJP-1Ij45ttOlmwZqyUMNjwPg8T2FyKzqrXTwzxodKyLGlFhyphenhyphentSgiiYyfUyuTCP1KY2MiCnIsUzgaJ993ATETuJbjOPg0KnaoPIGiTb8tUfuwUEeKwazU5q8EI33Gs5F8lC8/s1000/shutterstock_2286503.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOAKbsZeU5w8JZrEC3bsAqm-RAL5Okw4k1HgYCFfCi3xIPqfESZarZqN1SJP-1Ij45ttOlmwZqyUMNjwPg8T2FyKzqrXTwzxodKyLGlFhyphenhyphentSgiiYyfUyuTCP1KY2MiCnIsUzgaJ993ATETuJbjOPg0KnaoPIGiTb8tUfuwUEeKwazU5q8EI33Gs5F8lC8/w445-h296/shutterstock_2286503.jpg" width="445" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kind greetings and saying hello - Solidarity starts simply </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>2024</b></span></p><p>How can we increase solidarity and ensure it is not a fleeting phenomenon where people are strangers? How do we embed and teach social connectedness and ensure it flourishes not only when people are affected by a traumatic event? </p><p>I was taken aback several times over the past couple of months when fellow forest walkers thanked me for my kindness when all I did was kindly greet and exchange a few words with them! I expect this to be normal. Why has it become unusual to notice fellow beings and appreciate their presence around us? </p><p>Maybe, to enhance solidarity, we can start by simply paying more attention to people we meet outdoors, making eye contact, and greeting them. After all, they might just be the ones who save your life one day!</p><p>Have a happy, safe and peaceful 2024!</p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-41461508497158395532023-12-21T13:25:00.005-07:002023-12-22T13:08:58.067-07:00Propaganda, science, crime prevention - A New Year's Resolution<p><br /></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjuOiKaCyUg5ZyrTB0p0NSA_ayuHgyuRgVcBneGiDYFT2VzQkktfRwqy99NLz-ZQxM-6-DREhQ6NNOyi9jB77JPv7xXOL11YLjRUWuHSFLRXAY4faQ05cZmI6NdDkkvjhRk1ZNLzGU8AKhmAEBsI9hWnnjUEKXzVQ7IFgae2ziqBNvnEBEX4ISOaZ06yO/s3678/NYPD1.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1772" data-original-width="3678" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqjuOiKaCyUg5ZyrTB0p0NSA_ayuHgyuRgVcBneGiDYFT2VzQkktfRwqy99NLz-ZQxM-6-DREhQ6NNOyi9jB77JPv7xXOL11YLjRUWuHSFLRXAY4faQ05cZmI6NdDkkvjhRk1ZNLzGU8AKhmAEBsI9hWnnjUEKXzVQ7IFgae2ziqBNvnEBEX4ISOaZ06yO/w536-h258/NYPD1.jpeg" width="536" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Police and prevention go together. Good crime prevention is based on evidence, not popular beliefs</td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></i></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>“No one marches on Washington because of a pie chart!” I heard a politician say that years ago during a campaign. So why does anyone march on Washington, or wherever? Many people march for legitimate reasons. Others don’t. Evidence informs some. Others just believe what they want.</p><p>Incredulous as it seems – despite the absurdity of magic pills – some people end up believing populist snake oil when confronted with social unrest, economic strife, or political periods of turbulence. It’s the same in crime prevention. Despite evidence that many prevention methods cut crime, some choose to believe otherwise. </p><p>We need an objective system that depends on evidence and rational decision-making. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZQBItBuhzPkxXeY5T_N_sQVQTcZOj354WaKKPIhCBSvnoaknreHASB5sDO616CbhLuPJdXoDVBKSmBvTPv39XhOysTzp1EiLOwQqQWcTC1qqIlNAwUDVd-JGnek-gvI5yzz63aHH8cAVt5yvVZ45X_O4dPAi4P4xQQQBYJhhhdkuExV4TJu6xj-ZlaSX/s2338/2018-11-10%2017.57.29.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2338" data-original-width="1081" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZQBItBuhzPkxXeY5T_N_sQVQTcZOj354WaKKPIhCBSvnoaknreHASB5sDO616CbhLuPJdXoDVBKSmBvTPv39XhOysTzp1EiLOwQqQWcTC1qqIlNAwUDVd-JGnek-gvI5yzz63aHH8cAVt5yvVZ45X_O4dPAi4P4xQQQBYJhhhdkuExV4TJu6xj-ZlaSX/w210-h454/2018-11-10%2017.57.29.jpeg" width="210" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crime prevention has been a police mandate since 1829.<br />A 1931 family photo of Police Constable Tom Hopkin - my grandfather</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>WHAT WORKS?</b></span></p><p>I remember reading one of the first evaluations of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design in the 1970s – an elegant, pre-test/post-test research design with tons of data over several years. It examined problems like the maturation effect (how the passage of time taints a strategy) and selection bias (failing to collect random samples). Evaluators examined problems that researchers seldom examine even today, like compensatory equalization, (when a city implements other programs that affect the results). It was state-of-the-art in social science evaluation.</p><p>It was a demonstration project called <a href="https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/crime-prevention-through-environmental-design-final-report-0">Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design: Final Report on Residential Demonstration, Minneapolis, Minnesota</a>.</p><p>That study, and a series of others that followed, were the most exacting scientific studies of CPTED of such size, scope, and quality. They are unrivaled, even today. They revealed the positive results from CPTED of that era. They showed how CPTED was successful when it was holistic and participative with the community. They also showed that CPTED was complex. </p><p>What happened? Researchers criticized CPTED as too complex. They claimed it was too difficult to parse out the effect of specific strategies and to control one prevention effect from another. They complained it was too hard to isolate the role of the community from the police and the prevention practitioners. </p><p>You cannot please everyone! Nor, in science, should you. The point is not to please people and appease their feelings. The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_method">point of science </a>is to learn from mistakes and move closer to truth.</p><p>Since then, hundreds of CPTED <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10793286/">studies</a> have shown positive prevention results. The <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/stoken/default+domain/32BpDARe9FRQNTNzFpEd/full">most recent</a> claimed: “Reviews of collections of CPTED case studies have in general indicated CPTED interventions typically reduce crime.” </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72LltMTgVqS7RwS6Dj7KHmAkC8is0yDp49WIpy5toix_1N9X9Wdfs0daR3I5v-Kjz4hq-IoKHibfaakUdlCU8FBZ1hroNZ7Wvc2MHqs2ZAnPaKOovk2eFL-rdTqqYnNDa53a_VoDH6tS5xtTynubKNUPxuYexNiW94Oz_dh6nkSUD1XphCTZECXht0jBJ/s702/Gravitational_lens-full.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="702" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi72LltMTgVqS7RwS6Dj7KHmAkC8is0yDp49WIpy5toix_1N9X9Wdfs0daR3I5v-Kjz4hq-IoKHibfaakUdlCU8FBZ1hroNZ7Wvc2MHqs2ZAnPaKOovk2eFL-rdTqqYnNDa53a_VoDH6tS5xtTynubKNUPxuYexNiW94Oz_dh6nkSUD1XphCTZECXht0jBJ/w389-h294/Gravitational_lens-full.jpeg" width="389" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Einstein's prediction about the bending of light. Many felt he was nuts - it offended their belief about the world. Scientific experimentation proved them wrong<br />- photo <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gravitational_lens-full.jpg">Creative Commons</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>BELIEF VERSUS TRUTH</b></span></p><p>We still lack the scientific rigor to find any “ultimate” truths. That doesn’t mean we cannot find some relative truths. Good scientists <a href="https://www.americanscientist.org/article/the-statistical-crisis-in-science">say this</a> all the time. Yet, if such flaws exist in the physical sciences, imagine the ailments afflicting social science. </p><p>In one review, a <a href="https://www.city-journal.org/article/what-social-science-does-and-doesnt-knowWhat is the result?">City Journal</a> critic of criminological statistics found that “A detailed review of every regression model published between 1968 and 2005 in Criminology, a leading peer-reviewed journal, demonstrated that these models consistently failed to explain 80 to 90 percent of the variation in crime.”</p><p>I recently read an evaluation in Sweden that was so flawed, it read like propaganda. It failed to cite any prior evaluation research, provided no methodology, and quantified nothing. CPTED evaluations from 40 years ago put it to shame. Clearly, they have learned zero.</p><p>How can we build a library of evidence about effective crime prevention when even social scientists cannot figure out how to do proper science? </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeOe5P9xH6MWW_Dc6W4K6vUgk6_H_T6bb3Za0nkTZkNOOpuPdtxMrvWnVtRLnZTaKAptat7D0XtgAA4nndYSqC4HahhzcEgUzCCVl66U3YhN_hhV54z2ajZ79fYONQwsUhSENQldMPlLYPF0dEjwniuWwxjaQN2yrpOxhbo2CmCRzBNMAS1BIxtRk8i0t/s527/Clark_Stanley's_Snake_Oil_Liniment.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="346" height="421" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeOe5P9xH6MWW_Dc6W4K6vUgk6_H_T6bb3Za0nkTZkNOOpuPdtxMrvWnVtRLnZTaKAptat7D0XtgAA4nndYSqC4HahhzcEgUzCCVl66U3YhN_hhV54z2ajZ79fYONQwsUhSENQldMPlLYPF0dEjwniuWwxjaQN2yrpOxhbo2CmCRzBNMAS1BIxtRk8i0t/w276-h421/Clark_Stanley's_Snake_Oil_Liniment.png" width="276" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clark Stanley's Snake Oil Liniment. One of the earliest cons in the Old West<br />- photo <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Clark_Stanley%27s_Snake_Oil_Liniment.png">Creative Commons</a> </td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>SNAKE OIL SALES </b></span></p><p>If it is a choice between the snake oil propaganda of populist politicians (the “elites” are the problem; let’s go back to the old days), or an objective system that depends on evidence and rational decision-making, I doubt any fair-minded, democracy-loving, intelligent person, would choose the former.</p><p>There is no way to know for certain in social science <i>how much more</i> research is necessary. We also do not know whether more evidence, no matter how conclusive, will convince policy-makers to make rational crime policy. Regardless, none of that should dissuade the use of good research and the collection of decent evidence.</p><p>As we enter the New Year, I say we should carry on the difficult task of refining crime prevention methods, regardless of sham critics. We must remain vigilant against populist propaganda. We should continue to build, and learn from, libraries of success and failure. </p><p>We may not know how to convince the political populists, but without efforts to learn from science, we will forever be in the clutches of one snake oil salesman or another. And, as we know from the history of violence in the 20th Century, that never ends well.</p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-1871371451143641312023-11-30T23:59:00.007-07:002023-12-01T12:54:54.848-07:00The case for walkable neighbourhoods<p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1D0c9cWfUnupmveaEfc40qj6lJhIBekh89Mjc4FDEIIryVeuuLJnEIuIMLsSxHKtpVAqTDObNV9-2s87GCgzo5c2LMkGmVwoaK1WFIhM5ByFH6WDVTn7ebEo2e25XPqAc34k_w1x0YvbxdBNwRq4I0Cc_uq2J7dbL5SyHoahpyaGgOTERjpo_Izo5FwMz/s4032/IMG_8290.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1D0c9cWfUnupmveaEfc40qj6lJhIBekh89Mjc4FDEIIryVeuuLJnEIuIMLsSxHKtpVAqTDObNV9-2s87GCgzo5c2LMkGmVwoaK1WFIhM5ByFH6WDVTn7ebEo2e25XPqAc34k_w1x0YvbxdBNwRq4I0Cc_uq2J7dbL5SyHoahpyaGgOTERjpo_Izo5FwMz/w460-h346/IMG_8290.jpeg" width="460" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fun outdoor activities and safe walkability - keys for liveability</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Mateja Mihinjac</span></i></p><p>As I was going about my midday nature walk this week I was listening to a podcast on the importance of everyday movement and physical activity. In that podcast, walking was presented as a basic form of activity that humans have evolved to do. This resonated with a number of recent consulting projects in our SafeGrowth Network related to unwalkable streets, pedestrian fatalities, and unhealthy outdoor environments.</p><p>I am lucky to live in an area where I can access a nearby forest or complete my errands within a 15-minute walk. Many people in other places do not have this opportunity and this drawback has serious physical and mental health implications.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuepKUjV8JY_NwvyQmI_Fes99n8vvGYLTsGQfWPv0EkouJselIUEZRsvywVm-Yt_C3G1fEJZeoPoQ7LEPrTvBROqRnrPTmRqi-V9NSpvf_lAlFyuGRlYCJF4WUkKCz9Wj4-b12QHaR2FQatm5ttHnZ2M43hUkyMRM-RMMHsGruEDNwC9M9txEhIM2Gzr-5/s4000/IMG_20210919_093546.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="413" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuepKUjV8JY_NwvyQmI_Fes99n8vvGYLTsGQfWPv0EkouJselIUEZRsvywVm-Yt_C3G1fEJZeoPoQ7LEPrTvBROqRnrPTmRqi-V9NSpvf_lAlFyuGRlYCJF4WUkKCz9Wj4-b12QHaR2FQatm5ttHnZ2M43hUkyMRM-RMMHsGruEDNwC9M9txEhIM2Gzr-5/w310-h413/IMG_20210919_093546.jpg" width="310" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playful design encourages playful outdoors</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PUBLIC HEALTH </b></span></p><p>Many studies over the past decade have shown a connection between walkability and health. For example, a Belgian <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1353829215001501?casa_token=IuZxxU5UaToAAAAA:0MDrlMORuGvr0z5uWzI_lNvdnH99_2IrY-SLkNmuGaQkG9p7fArXz_oOPNvGNUYSRTWWyhvsYA ">study</a> showed how more walkable neighbourhoods promoted better health outcomes for older adults than those lacking walking infrastructure.</p><p>A Canadian <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/17/4/1131">study</a> demonstrated the importance of built environment that supports walkability for promoting fitness activity and consequently health outcomes. In Japan, <a href="https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/JAHA.119.016152">researchers</a> found a link between cardiovascular mortality and neighbourhood walkability. One Malaysian <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042812031631">study</a> showed how living in a walkable neighbourhood contributes to higher levels of perceived quality of liveability compared to those living in less walkable neighbourhoods.</p><p>As we describe in our <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0760/8/6/182">3rd Generation CPTED theory</a>, with easy access to green infrastructure, walkable neighbourhoods also create positive mental health effects. One such example is the Japanese practice of deep relaxation in the forest or <a href="https://www.bluezones.com/2019/06/forest-or-nature-bathing-ancient-practices-modern-uses-and-the-science-of-relaxation/">forest bathing</a>, especially welcome in hectic city environments. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9nCIs4SmChHds0shItEg_uq3QrqkeiDs6bR2jq-B6_Chy5e58qeoqBM_W2DQJN_R1LC_cd6k4C8GkG4gY-T3kRppdPtIoUBh_-Pp0lHevBkrwVysuGkC3ohziTdX5DPnxFRWr35zjhP-l3M97Betyl8Kyieged2fVkTzvW4vDQ4Nd-z5XqyPhOxbQ6n1/s4000/IMG_20231029_072126.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj9nCIs4SmChHds0shItEg_uq3QrqkeiDs6bR2jq-B6_Chy5e58qeoqBM_W2DQJN_R1LC_cd6k4C8GkG4gY-T3kRppdPtIoUBh_-Pp0lHevBkrwVysuGkC3ohziTdX5DPnxFRWr35zjhP-l3M97Betyl8Kyieged2fVkTzvW4vDQ4Nd-z5XqyPhOxbQ6n1/w394-h296/IMG_20231029_072126.jpg" width="394" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Physical health is related to positive mental health</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>In this era when we are so concerned about mental health and crime triggered by mental illness, we must build cities that encourage walkability and movement. Humans are <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/jul/28/its-a-superpower-how-walking-makes-us-healthier-happier-and-brainier">meant to move</a> and be active and motivation for movement needs to be clearly integrated into urban design.</p><p>Fortunately, some cities have attempted to encourage movement by gamifying physical activity – consider the famous example of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2lXh2n0aPyw">piano stairs</a> in Sweden. Additionally, new city-wide initiatives have emerged for redesigning cities, that build on this movement concept, such as the Parisian “15-Minute City” concept.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnq6nQrd31PFbnQu00TUL52iHQfEgGytOTqXV95qYJFztM2j2zkjYolUzjBdPg1iXsvBbPPk7JSAWJ6meDvSXvINgtRAk_WOn0gvQv_EwTX9Ym8RX-Ssao64RDLBkVEYi8r-WU2_mE6v_hLsBtjCh3SZH09E2XG0RxCTUUPjz2Jktp62UqQ4wdRNJhQd0/s4000/IMG_20210922_204445.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgnq6nQrd31PFbnQu00TUL52iHQfEgGytOTqXV95qYJFztM2j2zkjYolUzjBdPg1iXsvBbPPk7JSAWJ6meDvSXvINgtRAk_WOn0gvQv_EwTX9Ym8RX-Ssao64RDLBkVEYi8r-WU2_mE6v_hLsBtjCh3SZH09E2XG0RxCTUUPjz2Jktp62UqQ4wdRNJhQd0/w378-h284/IMG_20210922_204445.jpg" width="378" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walkability takes place above and below ground</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>“15-MINUTE CITY” – A CASE FOR WALKABILITY?</b></span></p><p>Carlos Moreno, the main author behind the “<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2624-6511/4/1/6">15-Minute City</a>” suggests that cities need restructuring so that they offer access to amenities within easily accessible distance. He suggests achieving this through increasing the density of people and services, close proximity to activities, diverse populations and land uses, and digitalization in line with Smart City developments.</p><p>The steps recognise the importance that the built infrastructure plays in promoting walkability and physical activity. These steps also closely relate to the principles of holistic and integrated neighbourhoods in <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-15108-8_2">Third Generation CPTED</a> and SafeGrowth.</p><p>Yet, despite the difficult-to-refute importance of integrated, dense and walkable neighbourhoods, the 15-Minute City has met resistance. Some criticize the concept as a <a href="https://theconversation.com/15-minute-cities-how-to-separate-the-reality-from-the-conspiracy-theory-200111">conspiracy to prevent people</a> from moving freely beyond their neighbourhoods. Others claim it is a socialist concept with an intent to restrict personal freedoms and to control the population.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-SX4RlNN_cn5oI1qKYU5LwX8x-a-XCQ-4B4P2fL27JtIV2qvPIM8B2X1eCqtoIcSO415lAwuPfrwMhz8edlVgamSJBmNDfyVCOm_f1uz9qIfcGasZyS_baHYRNKcvdoNAGkBqiOlbHGy9i-BTRulav7QA-lMe9CMExqEEz-MWvfWNodVvnUgBgSrGMhio/s4000/IMG_20230617_224056.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-SX4RlNN_cn5oI1qKYU5LwX8x-a-XCQ-4B4P2fL27JtIV2qvPIM8B2X1eCqtoIcSO415lAwuPfrwMhz8edlVgamSJBmNDfyVCOm_f1uz9qIfcGasZyS_baHYRNKcvdoNAGkBqiOlbHGy9i-BTRulav7QA-lMe9CMExqEEz-MWvfWNodVvnUgBgSrGMhio/w420-h315/IMG_20230617_224056.jpeg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Positive outdoor activities at night - sometimes colourful lighting helps</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Many of these conspiracy claims were conflated with COVID restrictions that coincided with the popularisation of the 15-minute city and it remains a sore point for many. </p><p>Another <a href="https://www.cnu.org/publicsquare/2017/09/28/why-walkability-not-luxury ">criticism</a> of neighbourhood walkability is voiced by those who claim that walkable and liveable neighbourhoods are elitist and promote displacement and gentrification.</p><p>It may equally be true that those who voice such concerns are more worried about increases in housing prices and land values. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfm2B29IDJLtHJ8b2c90AaEsIujXeA39DddKm8SPA81SaHWqrjiTp5MgNevC8YyfksESOH_75ZE_eTD5_FYtB_MQ4qr74lPMfLVIGQ04HORYCfuGa7pF-JvAkxIe-5ULXxwLQrFZAS6rcHdsfp9-wGVAxt__0O8WW666Mwb3D_RdIFIzQxUc_ow8bDj771/s4000/IMG_20210911_171226.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfm2B29IDJLtHJ8b2c90AaEsIujXeA39DddKm8SPA81SaHWqrjiTp5MgNevC8YyfksESOH_75ZE_eTD5_FYtB_MQ4qr74lPMfLVIGQ04HORYCfuGa7pF-JvAkxIe-5ULXxwLQrFZAS6rcHdsfp9-wGVAxt__0O8WW666Mwb3D_RdIFIzQxUc_ow8bDj771/w376-h282/IMG_20210911_171226.jpg" width="376" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street furniture, too, plays a role in walkable cities</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>MOVING FORWARD WITH WALKABILITY</b></span></p><p>While these concerns should not be disregarded, they should not dissuade us from moving forward towards walkable, integrated and liveable cities. It is irresponsible to ignore walkability options given all the evidence related to public health, mental health, and environmental sustainability.</p><p>If we are to enhance public health and reduce mental stress, city planning must be part of the answer. It should be well thought out and tailored to specific neighbourhoods to integrate walkability. </p><p>In SafeGrowth we strongly believe the pathway to do this successfully resides in partnerships with residents during the planning process. After all, it is in their neighbourhoods where they are walking. </p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-64262127147728217102023-11-24T14:25:00.014-07:002023-11-29T00:10:04.868-07:00A bird's-eye view of safety - Urban morphology and crime<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlU2_5GLl7Sowbk7jF-bosp65DxBQFn4fliq9EbIg60xdfVl7SpFlM76CFl6IrS0IqrtC6otIJh50uFt89jEh7Ik1RgJfNFyI1fbOWffKYS8WzyeLpI4_ST5FE29PaB8ESFfTn0a7UOQ5XzyJe9Eo3cwueZ-m4qIditsRZkmdjyuVzAZEzTFiKrbKxOov/s4928/83e0740050174fb85d5e26ac9ffad1f4.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3280" data-original-width="4928" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghlU2_5GLl7Sowbk7jF-bosp65DxBQFn4fliq9EbIg60xdfVl7SpFlM76CFl6IrS0IqrtC6otIJh50uFt89jEh7Ik1RgJfNFyI1fbOWffKYS8WzyeLpI4_ST5FE29PaB8ESFfTn0a7UOQ5XzyJe9Eo3cwueZ-m4qIditsRZkmdjyuVzAZEzTFiKrbKxOov/w470-h312/83e0740050174fb85d5e26ac9ffad1f4.jpeg" width="470" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Astronaut Tim Kopra took this night photo of Chicago from space. Beginning in the 1920s, Chicago became a center of research into morphology as a crime factor - photo courtesy <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/image-article/night-image-of-chicago/">NASA</a></span></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></i></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>The promise of scientific discoveries never guarantees positive results. That is up to us and the wisdom of our choices. But without rational thinking, data and evidence, and decent research on the problems of our day, we cannot expect to reap the rewards that proliferate in the sciences. This especially applies for city building and crime prevention.</p><p>That brings me to what social geographers call <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/social-sciences/urban-morphology">urban morphology</a>. Urban morphology is the scientific study of the macro geometry and physical form of cities and towns, such as street patterns, land uses, and population densities – basically modern urban land use planning. It was during my university classes in urban morphology that I first learned why architects and urban planners think so differently. </p><p>An architect might design building windows facing the street to improve natural surveillance and decrease crime. But a traffic engineer might design a wide, one-way street to speed vehicles from one region of the city to another. Speeding cars make a street inhospitable and unwalkable, in which case no one bothers to look outside. So much for natural surveillance. </p><p>Many times I have been asked to look at street crime and noted empty sidewalks, loud vehicle noise from speeding cars, and high vehicle speeds on a wide, one-way street. Morphology matters and recent <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/issj.12478">criminological research</a> confirms it. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZA0PlCnhMpXjK8zuL_dSb8lK9xBO1gFry578iJJTEWCu5Vz6D5UpLhyq5cf30PItQq5kRhX6gFd3RIxa0iO02OOtI9STwNtPX7GrvkytmMrtZ2441wW-NpZN1JDaSJJmQvvN-ym26TLUvs8vR1FqtiHIxSf_TsGhw-hlYxVKojHvmojZJ2D7IxZcoU7c3/s5464/michael-tuszynski-4nuCGapo4Zs-unsplash.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3640" data-original-width="5464" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZA0PlCnhMpXjK8zuL_dSb8lK9xBO1gFry578iJJTEWCu5Vz6D5UpLhyq5cf30PItQq5kRhX6gFd3RIxa0iO02OOtI9STwNtPX7GrvkytmMrtZ2441wW-NpZN1JDaSJJmQvvN-ym26TLUvs8vR1FqtiHIxSf_TsGhw-hlYxVKojHvmojZJ2D7IxZcoU7c3/w437-h291/michael-tuszynski-4nuCGapo4Zs-unsplash.jpeg" width="437" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The traditional suburban cul de sac - Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@churchmediamike">Michael Tuszynski</a> on Unsplash</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>CUL-DE-SACS</b></span></p><p>Take the cul de sac. Some criminologists claim that cul de sacs are the safest places to live because we get to know our neighbors which leads to territorial control and that cuts crime. Having lived on a cul de sac, I often questioned those assumptions. Were those assumptions actually based on scientific data or were they just a pocketful of anecdotes? </p><p>In environmental criminology, I learned that cul de sacs were places of lower crime due to limited permeability, controlled access, and increased territoriality. Some <a href="https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/permeability-and-burglary-risk-are-cul-de-sacs-safer">studies</a> supported that hypothesis.</p><p>Then new research challenged that hypothesis. One South Korean <a href="https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jaabe/16/3/16_487/_pdf">study</a> showed how cultural factors can exacerbate, or mitigate cul de sac risks. Another study by Mateja Mihinjac in her criminology graduate research also challenged the <i>cul-de-sac-is-good</i> hypothesis. Her research indicated they had no impact. All this, of course, is how science is supposed to proceed:</p><p>Hypotheses are tested --> old theories fall --> new theories emerge.</p><p>Then I read the work of civil engineer, <a href="https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2019/7/9/my-journey-from-free-market-ideologue-part-4">Charles Marohn</a>, someone with decades of experience designing roads and streets. </p><p>Marohn and his colleagues examined the fiscal side of street designs, including cul de sacs. They looked at the street engineering of cul de sacs and compared the fiscal costs of construction, maintenance, replacement, asphalt, and extruded curb costs, with other types of streets. The results were not encouraging. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgos3jAz-z_BaFGwAimwMb2vDH8-KPJRf7foLzJsbMW0ymL-8ltEILuYkpoCiqBoPnCZ04HkTYBj1JD34PicfO7uUtkUDJwXsYOVw1aHYuDVpMDBrqf8xBylo7hNjxteo1eo_TOMBmRADgiOb4x35Xf-D9v2WHuCuawXpJYvb3NKKuuaJQEgfeenD055DLi/s4928/stephen-andrews-wDh2ukjB0lU-unsplash.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3280" data-original-width="4928" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgos3jAz-z_BaFGwAimwMb2vDH8-KPJRf7foLzJsbMW0ymL-8ltEILuYkpoCiqBoPnCZ04HkTYBj1JD34PicfO7uUtkUDJwXsYOVw1aHYuDVpMDBrqf8xBylo7hNjxteo1eo_TOMBmRADgiOb4x35Xf-D9v2WHuCuawXpJYvb3NKKuuaJQEgfeenD055DLi/w400-h266/stephen-andrews-wDh2ukjB0lU-unsplash.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cul de sacs were envisioned as safe areas <br />- Photo by Stephen Andrews on <a href="https://unsplash.com/@porkbellysteve">Unsplash</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Another urban planner re-examined Marohn’s hypotheses and studied cul de sac street design costs in his own city. His <a href="https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2020/8/10/i-did-the-math-on-my-towns-cul-de-sacs">research</a> too was shocking. </p><p>It turns out that cul de sacs make no fiscal sense. They are expensive to construct and difficult to maintain. Cities end up in the red when they attempt to cover costs. Tax revenue from residents does not come close to paying for cul de sacs. Costs for maintaining cul de sacs balloon as they age and they will eventually need huge property tax increases or federal subsidies – neither of which is likely. So not only are cul de sacs not exactly the crime panacea first thought, they are also fiscally unsustainable.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>STRONG TOWNS MOVEMENT</b></span></p><p>This research is a product of the Strong Towns movement. Strong Towns researchers raise all sorts of important morphology questions that pertain to crime. For example, what about all the excessive parking lots in cities and their contribution to safety, crime, and fiscal sustainability? </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQ8mHeilx4PdBLT7-KwRtF-yvaKENMETLgEaOiR7LuPfB0E9rzrTxnkk8Km1_jm5lwbc6rst0F5wgur17fnVPstWUfZEitnN_KcJ-OiZO6BfLPUQYAisBJaJYjI71YTTLILVj4puYtsNJiMP3B9QbvNopGHv0Ekwiy1sdVdo1z6w8FoFwJt956AhIeYsD/s2560/IMG-20130609-00224.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="2560" height="349" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOQ8mHeilx4PdBLT7-KwRtF-yvaKENMETLgEaOiR7LuPfB0E9rzrTxnkk8Km1_jm5lwbc6rst0F5wgur17fnVPstWUfZEitnN_KcJ-OiZO6BfLPUQYAisBJaJYjI71YTTLILVj4puYtsNJiMP3B9QbvNopGHv0Ekwiy1sdVdo1z6w8FoFwJt956AhIeYsD/w465-h349/IMG-20130609-00224.jpg" width="465" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many modern cities have excessive parking, mostly unused</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>In <a href="https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2023/5/4/a-quarter-of-downtown-dallas-is-parking-lots-could-that-change">Dallas</a>, Texas 25% of the entire downtown land use is for parking cars, often the same empty parking lots where people are assaulted and cars are easily stolen. When Strong Town researchers dug into the municipal costs to cover car parking, the result was alarming. These are costs that could be better spent on housing the homeless, responding to toxic street drugs, or better public transit. </p><p>The Strong Town advocates have some intriguing design answers. Installing curbside patios to replace downtown parking spots is one type of repurposing that can help. For example, Toronto instituted curbside patios and found they produce <a href=" https://www.strongtowns.org/journal/2022/11/22/torontos-curbside-patios-made-49-times-more-money-than-the-parking-they-replaced">49 times more money</a> than the street parking spots they replaced – again, money that might be tapped for better livability results.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHXnwroXWjkj1Ld6FgEkSTffniJVxm69J9s9CtN1aD-RGf-wK5j4fqpVe-g7k3HtwPwz-R4EvhHTWIiP5GMDOmC172_JDdZC6hi5pbdo8oUVGVEMXstTj-hLRWXWW8g2XLzQp7bFqAh4dHHZ4hTw_1oQA9s6etP4bqwGtf9spVWsfVcqTdQFrcfsJC_z0/s2016/Leased%20parking%20spot%203.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1512" data-original-width="2016" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHXnwroXWjkj1Ld6FgEkSTffniJVxm69J9s9CtN1aD-RGf-wK5j4fqpVe-g7k3HtwPwz-R4EvhHTWIiP5GMDOmC172_JDdZC6hi5pbdo8oUVGVEMXstTj-hLRWXWW8g2XLzQp7bFqAh4dHHZ4hTw_1oQA9s6etP4bqwGtf9spVWsfVcqTdQFrcfsJC_z0/w418-h314/Leased%20parking%20spot%203.jpeg" width="418" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Street patios are inexpensive, bring more fiscal returns than parking spots, <br />and provide a popular livability option </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p>Charles Marohn is the president of the Strong Town movement and his book, <a href="https://www.confessions.engineer/order">The Confessions of a Recovering Engineer</a> is a must for those interested in city design and SafeGrowth.</p><p>It emphasizes the role of scientific research and evidence in urban planning and design if we are to reap the kinds of successes in crime prevention that we see in other branches of science. </p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-10810485284181344092023-11-11T16:19:00.006-07:002023-11-15T14:44:07.432-07:00Who you gonna call? An appropriate response to people in crisis - Part 1<p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MTrZxIIQwnpjEmwfcrEF42-gRLnjhQ8x_RF-TLLPLY1k1fwgyPdcHcmCzItMWP16ZCC5Q8IbLDGZx1v_ARwv2fonnzimUrE5BKtz52THspUdyP3OngQ_QHewfcIuaCRuOgFlg7PNO6g7Hugp5__LLBM-qPRolgKnKe9_yiB5h9Q-DZaWiVqNLwBZ55fo/s1280/Smartphone_Use.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-MTrZxIIQwnpjEmwfcrEF42-gRLnjhQ8x_RF-TLLPLY1k1fwgyPdcHcmCzItMWP16ZCC5Q8IbLDGZx1v_ARwv2fonnzimUrE5BKtz52THspUdyP3OngQ_QHewfcIuaCRuOgFlg7PNO6g7Hugp5__LLBM-qPRolgKnKe9_yiB5h9Q-DZaWiVqNLwBZ55fo/w496-h330/Smartphone_Use.jpeg" width="496" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Calling 9-1-1 for all situations is not ideal - photo <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smartphone#/media/File:Smartphone_Use.jpg">Creative Commons</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><i>GUEST BLOG: </i><a href="https://www.safegrowth.org/beth-dufek.html">Beth Dufek</a></span> <span style="color: #6aa84f;">is a writer and marketing strategist for clients improving the built environment. She runs her own consulting firm in the Pacific Northwest. Previously she worked with the LISC non-profit organization, facilitated SafeGrowth projects in Milwaukee, and later worked with neighborhood groups in Seattle, Washington. She was named one of the Milwaukee Business Journal’s Forty Under 40 for her commitment to civic engagement and her ability to build trust in communities. As a member of the SafeGrowth Network, she teaches SafeGrowth in cities across the U.S. This is Beth’s first blog on responding to people in crisis on the street.</span></p><p>I transitioned from architecture into community development in 2006. For a decade I worked side-by-side with residents, business owners, City officials, government agencies, and nonprofits – the proverbial “stakeholders”. Our goal was to reimagine neighborhoods, identify barriers, develop strategies, and create long-lasting partnerships that would deliver thriving communities throughout Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Seattle, Washington. This is what draws me to SafeGrowth. </p><p>In 2011, especially for the Zilber Neighborhood Initiative in Milwaukee, we had a process, but we never called it the 5 Steps like we do in SafeGrowth. We identified achievable projects, brought residents together, and presented a compilation of projects tightly packaged into a plan to an audience we hoped would help us with funding or other resources. The final product was an illustrated <a href="https://ed.ted.com/on/7CO35v8P">asset map</a>, a <a href="http://www.zilberfamilyfoundation.org/pdfs/lindsay-heights/lindsay-heights-qlp-full-plan.pdf">neighborhood plan</a> format that I love to this day. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf04fa6u0ElzXdptvOH7YETUl8qesypK1x-aLeLx3Tk3MrJjP2Sc-r76ouobc4ViwI8W5vHL9RmCYZvVCGAbF8UPXSFwkkxWnQqKRYH1dGt6wTlCWXRfZ9U1_3YL8JUMnUAYWkD2tcg4yS6aSAqv1bc7ugH0k96JXaESgsn0E6BEo8oEg9VApSMi2gV4Ul/s2026/Lindsay%20Heights.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="2026" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf04fa6u0ElzXdptvOH7YETUl8qesypK1x-aLeLx3Tk3MrJjP2Sc-r76ouobc4ViwI8W5vHL9RmCYZvVCGAbF8UPXSFwkkxWnQqKRYH1dGt6wTlCWXRfZ9U1_3YL8JUMnUAYWkD2tcg4yS6aSAqv1bc7ugH0k96JXaESgsn0E6BEo8oEg9VApSMi2gV4Ul/w456-h270/Lindsay%20Heights.png" width="456" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Lindsay Heights plan - <a href="http://www.zilberfamilyfoundation.org/pdfs/lindsay-heights/lindsay-heights-qlp-full-plan.pdf">Zilber Neighborhood Initiative</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><br /></p><p>Fast forward to the next decade. In 2020 I joined the <a href="https://www.safegrowth.org/safegrowth-network.html">SafeGrowth Network</a>, and I started co-facilitating <a href="https://www.safegrowth.org/what-we-do1.html#training">SafeGrowth Trainings</a> with Greg Saville in 2021. It was a natural transition. All neighborhood plans I have ever worked on, regardless of the income status of the residents, start with a safety strategy. Among the top issues: who do we call when we need help? And with the state of mental health and drug addiction in the Pacific Northwest, this need feels greater than ever.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>WHO DO WE CALL</b></span></p><p>Case in point: in 2019 I took walks along Seattle’s waterfront. One week, I saw a human completely engulfed in a purple sleeping bag (I assumed it was a human) in the same position for 3 days in a row. The human in the sleeping bag was situated among people who were enjoying the park during sunny days. But they were in exactly the same position for 3 days. My imagination convinced me the sleeping bag was fuller than it was (perhaps a bloated dead body?). This vision played a significant role in my next moves. </p><p>My concern was for the lack of human interaction with other humans experiencing drug addiction and mental health crises. A simple “Are you OK?”, rather than stepping over a human slumped on the sidewalk, took center stage. What if they are dead? Or need help? Who do I call? I tried the non-emergency police. No answer. Seriously. </p><p>Sigh. </p><p>I called 911. I pleaded with them not to make a big deal, couldn’t someone just come by? The dispatcher asked me if I could tap the purple sleeping bag to see if they were OK, or alive. I can’t remember. No! I’m not trained to do this! What if I scare them and they attack me? What if they ARE dead?</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdG07zGSjKndKzXIze6um4WFy5fCu4Tufnd49qc_3C_O9Hf2EBW4dEnog3m_WK5FM0Vr9eM42V_CL44gMtpvQ3w6Wm17zieBxrtQAY4cQDRJHP2PmpUugs1CSIRbHCXRIjDM0YRuQUSI2OmxtTwmcbxtlo5KoFo5Xzc7OQQ_JV5MtuyPAKBLNJKz0e-AoB/s1599/Seattle_Fire_Department_-_Ladder_6.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1599" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdG07zGSjKndKzXIze6um4WFy5fCu4Tufnd49qc_3C_O9Hf2EBW4dEnog3m_WK5FM0Vr9eM42V_CL44gMtpvQ3w6Wm17zieBxrtQAY4cQDRJHP2PmpUugs1CSIRbHCXRIjDM0YRuQUSI2OmxtTwmcbxtlo5KoFo5Xzc7OQQ_JV5MtuyPAKBLNJKz0e-AoB/w423-h282/Seattle_Fire_Department_-_Ladder_6.jpeg" width="423" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seattle Fire Department - Photo courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Jmabel">Joe Mabel</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Minutes later a Seattle Fire Department truck came barreling through <a href="https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/myrtle-edwards-park">Myrtle Edwards Park</a>, drove right past me and then called me to direct them to my location. </p><p>“Over here! Here I am! The one who has now disrupted everyone’s enjoyment of one of the 56 sunny days in Seattle because I care about this human … and listen to too many true crime podcasts!” </p><p>I turned to the human near me and apologized and explained a fire truck was not the outcome I had imagined. I had a guy on a bike in mind who could assess the situation and call for additional help if needed. I walked with the paramedic over to Denise. I know her name is Denise because he said, “Oh that’s Denise. Denise, are you OK?” She was very much alive and none too happy that her afternoon sleep was disrupted! </p><p>That made two of us. </p><p>Since then, I’ve been thinking; why can’t all humans have a non-non-emergency number to call just to get a wellness check when they see someone in crisis? </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IeRrisxJnS5RIAyvqtaDhUkda77B4Mps9nFa8an4k9V_khQqDJNrDRW-HN0xHDm4gRMoQVp_zUelUgIX6sUw5agu3BMOfCNVRQmfKyunM_TyP4si48Bk7Gzl2EePm9vftX6gyALCem0qjpQAaNPUBkI6yyLV0kk_THgeQtAPSGbZpR33Dlh_Q4eB8Hb9/s3149/SRT%20on%20the%20system.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2239" data-original-width="3149" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9IeRrisxJnS5RIAyvqtaDhUkda77B4Mps9nFa8an4k9V_khQqDJNrDRW-HN0xHDm4gRMoQVp_zUelUgIX6sUw5agu3BMOfCNVRQmfKyunM_TyP4si48Bk7Gzl2EePm9vftX6gyALCem0qjpQAaNPUBkI6yyLV0kk_THgeQtAPSGbZpR33Dlh_Q4eB8Hb9/w447-h318/SRT%20on%20the%20system.jpeg" width="447" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TriMet Safety Response Team - photo courtesy of <a href="https://news.trimet.org/2023/07/video-trimets-expanding-safety-response-team-recognized-as-part-of-industry-leading-honor-for-agencys-security-and-safety-initiatives/">TriMet</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>ARE YOU OK? </b></span></p><p>Through the SafeGrowth network, I found an entire agency that feels the same way. In 2021, the first SafeGrowth Training I co-facilitated was for TriMet, the three-county transit agency in the Portland, Oregon metro area. To date, we have trained 37 TriMet department directors and safety, maintenance, construction, and planning staff on how to use the SafeGrowth method to make staff and community-informed safety improvements along the transit system. </p><p>We just wrapped up Part 1 for our third cohort of TriMet employees and TriMet contractors. This cohort has five members from TriMet’s Safety Response Team. I get emotional just thinking about how impressed I am with what they have done and what they plan to do to help the thousands of humans who find shelter along the TriMet system through their Reimagining Public Safety initiative.</p><p>In the next two blogs, I will write about TriMet’s Safety Response Team and the changing roles of transit operators, librarians, and other agencies that find themselves in new roles helping humans. </p><p>But for now, I will be brave and ask, “Are you OK?”</p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-37108046211904779582023-10-31T01:04:00.005-06:002023-11-03T12:48:37.888-06:00Brazil & the Next Gen R/Evolution<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2P8sSHcihAuu7hgyvK1gMDEwbvwZBChiiJUnDNveYrKQGDyOqX_t-LV_BBVQIh1V7Vc7d3ILQS7uDeB7xyIhnrOO5YtfX4yL-fFdyg3gCEOutNTUE6w5WhUQ7B3P9kTStDPScgEHpcGmJK3bNJiI8SlsN9bfeqKMXq-p4vaEGZqhnNR0e4v4iHBGNaOne/s1422/Bairro_dos_jardins_em_sa%CC%83o_paulo.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1422" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2P8sSHcihAuu7hgyvK1gMDEwbvwZBChiiJUnDNveYrKQGDyOqX_t-LV_BBVQIh1V7Vc7d3ILQS7uDeB7xyIhnrOO5YtfX4yL-fFdyg3gCEOutNTUE6w5WhUQ7B3P9kTStDPScgEHpcGmJK3bNJiI8SlsN9bfeqKMXq-p4vaEGZqhnNR0e4v4iHBGNaOne/w494-h278/Bairro_dos_jardins_em_sa%CC%83o_paulo.jpeg" width="494" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Venue for the 2023 ICA CPTED Conference is <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_cities_in_Brazil_by_population#/media/File:Bairro_dos_jardins_em_s%C3%A3o_paulo.jpg">Sao Paulo</a>, Brazil. The largest city in the Americas has a metro population over 20 million - photo <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_S%C3%A3o_Paulo">Wiki Creative Commons</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>It’s Halloween today and the goblins and ghosts are looking for treats. An interesting ghost from my past appeared today, triggered by an international conference in Sao Paulo, Brazil this week. It all started 28 years ago…</p><p>In 1995 I ran an urban planning/criminology consultancy with my former business partner, Paul Wong in Vancouver, Canada. Our work in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) had expanded across Canada and we were becoming alarmed at what we saw. The first CPTED publications were holistic, neighborhood-oriented, and they combined social programs with physical designs to cut crime opportunities. </p><p>However the CPTED that we saw in some places was not holistic. It had de-evolved into target hardening, locks, and lights. There were very few guidelines and no certification programs. To our dismay, we discovered that the public, and municipalities across the world, had no clue about the failing quality control problems in CPTED. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>SOMETHING NEEDED TO BE DONE </b></span></p><p>Basically, we located a like-minded CPTED practitioner, Barry Davidson from Calgary, Alberta, and in 1996 we launched the first-ever practitioner/researcher CPTED conference in Calgary. Thus was born the ICA - <a href="https://cpted.net/">International CPTED Association</a> - the first-ever global, non-profit, CPTED professional association. I have written a <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2021/07/a-25-year-experiment-international.html">prior blog</a> on the history of the ICA. </p><p>With chapters all over the world, the ICA is the premiere global organization for professional CPTED in research and practice. Most recently, members of the ICA collaborated with others in the International Standards Organization to design and implement the first-ever, global CPTED standard, <a href="https://www.iso.org/obp/ui/en/#iso:std:iso:22341:ed-1:v1:en">ISO 22341:2021</a> - “Guidelines for crime prevention through environmental design”. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiawXrquRAcySC8gxFnmc_1mzYovXtMKIlCFZzOawVscwIs0lPP0oFkGyZvy7zV-NK6BjU12drEU3PKtgnBac7LPqb916TsHALYSLx7mHFjv8WtI2TztY4cPJG4qKKAV0_eilhCUA1SgOnBypVDb3Mz_8NF5LPVGQiOOZgdWrkaVC0eLaVG8rwFIprGK0cr/s604/BRAZIL%203.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiawXrquRAcySC8gxFnmc_1mzYovXtMKIlCFZzOawVscwIs0lPP0oFkGyZvy7zV-NK6BjU12drEU3PKtgnBac7LPqb916TsHALYSLx7mHFjv8WtI2TztY4cPJG4qKKAV0_eilhCUA1SgOnBypVDb3Mz_8NF5LPVGQiOOZgdWrkaVC0eLaVG8rwFIprGK0cr/s320/BRAZIL%203.png" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CPTED USA is the latest ICA chapter</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><br /></p><p>The ICA has a talented and diverse <a href="https://cpted.net/ICA-Board-of-Directors">board of directors</a> from around the world and most recently, the ICA approved two new affiliate chapters – the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CPTED.USA">CPTED USA</a> and <a href="https://cpted.net/North-America#CPTED-PCAM">CPTED/PCAM Canada</a></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>ICA IN BRAZIL</b></span></p><p>This week the latest ICA conference - Safe Cities by People - is underway in Sao Paulo. I was unable to attend this year, but my colleagues Gerard Cleveland and Mateja Mihinjac will present a special session on the <i>R/Evolution in 2nd and 3rd Generation CPTED</i>. They will describe the latest advances and research in CPTED. <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-15108-8_2">Second Generation</a> was launched in 1997 at the second-ever ICA conference in Orlando, Florida. <a href="https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/ae9a/a3c86d722b72be35c3adaf4a7127b897bed7.pdf">Third Generation</a> was launched by Mateja and myself 5 years ago at the ICA Conference in Cancun, Mexico. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHPCdRXgMhNfM2F9Qy5eDHwggjvYL8BRf4gaJdJ4neoZqXCQ9RA6LPVuXFEqrIpNo2ohtRQHBCrRSOQr4vw8-6M7hqJARSR70r5juRXY3Hfr4dUf93i6ur8hSUCVQuTMVIKMkd3Wb-vked-S1lAPn-yG_GGnH1JVFtr9SrToL2ISljRopwGcyqQO7cgl5/s2182/BRAZIL%201.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1174" data-original-width="2182" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHPCdRXgMhNfM2F9Qy5eDHwggjvYL8BRf4gaJdJ4neoZqXCQ9RA6LPVuXFEqrIpNo2ohtRQHBCrRSOQr4vw8-6M7hqJARSR70r5juRXY3Hfr4dUf93i6ur8hSUCVQuTMVIKMkd3Wb-vked-S1lAPn-yG_GGnH1JVFtr9SrToL2ISljRopwGcyqQO7cgl5/w452-h243/BRAZIL%201.png" width="452" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>Most exciting is the announcement by Mateja and Gerard of two new publications. </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The first is a forthcoming book in 2024 by Mateja, Carl Bray, Jason Tudor, and myself, called <i><b>Return to Walden</b></i>. That book presents the latest in the SafeGrowth method, to which this blog is dedicated. </li><li>The second is Gerard and Annie Morrison’s new book <i><b>Tier Teaching</b></i> about better methods of teaching, learning, and safety in our schools, where the seeds of delinquency and dysfunction are planted, or removed, through competent education and educators. </li></ul><p></p><p>I am disappointed to miss this conference but to help Mateja and Gerard, I prepared a short video intro for their presentation today. Best wishes to all at the Sao Paulo ICA conference. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="339" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/66TLgEOulho" width="529" youtube-src-id="66TLgEOulho"></iframe></div><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-13211899530279449202023-10-26T23:59:00.004-06:002023-10-28T15:13:06.425-06:00Whose voice speaks for us? Access control and the engagement trap<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YVZRIZOzuWRcOEMsOFNkcB-C4WEaaRoSjIRcyiZZPId7XC9rZgFMk7kdJNNlE9hTtRvGfKJQUzEBg5noyVCwKrRREIcrId6hQXS9xxwzUAkBNGnj4rwas_YgYMhhTh3oVV6N_BEpvLA9P0k5OugIyg7a8nOGF5ArAihfzvhrH_qNlXBCYMXOu88kxzSa/s4000/Pedestrians%20take%20back%20the%20neighbourhood.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_YVZRIZOzuWRcOEMsOFNkcB-C4WEaaRoSjIRcyiZZPId7XC9rZgFMk7kdJNNlE9hTtRvGfKJQUzEBg5noyVCwKrRREIcrId6hQXS9xxwzUAkBNGnj4rwas_YgYMhhTh3oVV6N_BEpvLA9P0k5OugIyg7a8nOGF5ArAihfzvhrH_qNlXBCYMXOu88kxzSa/w453-h340/Pedestrians%20take%20back%20the%20neighbourhood.jpeg" width="453" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Residents take back their neighbourhood by access control of their roadways </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Mateja Mihinjac</span></i></p><p>What happens when a community installs retractable pillars to block vehicular access into a neighbourhood of terraced blocks and local businesses? Access control is one of the fundamental principles of <a href="https://cpted.net/Primer-in-CPTED">1st Generation CPTED</a>, established in 1972 by Oscar Newman in his book <a href="https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/defensible-space-crime-prevention-through-urban-design">Defensible Space</a> and employed judiciously by CPTED practitioners.</p><p>In one particular neighbourhood in my home city of Ljubljana, Slovenia, the issue of vehicle access control has been a contentious issue for several years. It regained interest a few weeks ago when a child was almost run over by a car while playing in a neighbourhood area intended for pedestrian use. Many have welcomed the installation of pillars, but others feel it a hasty decision lacking the preceding discussion. They seek more thoughtful consideration about the effects on senior residents, those with mobility issues, and the delivery of goods and services. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwvjL1TNctD0CLUQc4hhCVPtnTpkz4yJ_rozKYWWqaLorC5kXNj0ZB1VAdqrjxvqPXflnnl5t2Us7wfkdhhY-RfMOEcCujVRISpjB7F7Unz9VC4vXMMSw4BwFFWsAN50qYldAnrNOpbFqboQkHT3GIZxDCDfuI8NBAxoxzeZKjf-G3LAcZliMC2EoOLXK/s4000/No%20entry%20for%20private%20vehicles.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwvjL1TNctD0CLUQc4hhCVPtnTpkz4yJ_rozKYWWqaLorC5kXNj0ZB1VAdqrjxvqPXflnnl5t2Us7wfkdhhY-RfMOEcCujVRISpjB7F7Unz9VC4vXMMSw4BwFFWsAN50qYldAnrNOpbFqboQkHT3GIZxDCDfuI8NBAxoxzeZKjf-G3LAcZliMC2EoOLXK/w423-h317/No%20entry%20for%20private%20vehicles.jpeg" width="423" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No entry for private vehicles in the neighbourhood </td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>THE ENGAGEMENT TRAP</b></span></p><p>Soon after the installation of the pillars, emotional reactions appeared on the community Facebook group, as well as in <a href="https://ljubljanainfo.com/novica/lokalno/zapora-avtomobilskega-prometa-skozi-naselje-v-kosezah-sprejeta-z-mesanimi-obcutki?fbclid=IwAR3vIcpP0AxEjsAf1Nh2bPbs2mXhCQLSwiQP_O18Oyc4Hy6NFPuyk5Ppx-A">local news</a>, which reported reactions as “warm-cold”.</p><p>Some residents echoed sentiments such as “people would even drive directly to their apartment if they could” suggesting that people have become spoiled and accustomed to comfort. They welcomed the decision and praised the mayor for it.</p><p>Others maintained the move was made due to the nagging of a few who had the loudest voice but had no right to decide on behalf of the majority. They thought the right of access to their property was violated. They also reminded the “house rules” are already in place for each block. While these rules don’t seem to operate well in practice, it is clear the process of engagement was not managed well. </p><p>Residents were not asked to partake in the discussion and they felt the decision was imposed on them. In SafeGrowth we are very familiar with this phenomenon and in our new forthcoming SafeGrowth book, we describe this as <a href="https://organizingengagement.org/models/spectrum-of-public-participation/">the engagement trap</a> - listening to the loudest voices, consulting too late in the process, or insincere tokenism for political expedience.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBjIeu8q0Q0bhGmvjm20zNEwW7ITwCSEI4wl9RJ9_VWRJcMNCDKxAySmc_8SlnnutLNiJkRJuUfCP0Clruxlr8eQ2s5eF_tOHKIwojC3PETDYiOUCbxb5-H2GHw7oOeaYokQRVNmv_0vJyuyhZ4WBcU8flEJVzBFG4JEgYrfmgWVDAd0bQhVB2V4SLjy55/s4000/Emergency%20vehicle%20waiting%20for%20exit.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBjIeu8q0Q0bhGmvjm20zNEwW7ITwCSEI4wl9RJ9_VWRJcMNCDKxAySmc_8SlnnutLNiJkRJuUfCP0Clruxlr8eQ2s5eF_tOHKIwojC3PETDYiOUCbxb5-H2GHw7oOeaYokQRVNmv_0vJyuyhZ4WBcU8flEJVzBFG4JEgYrfmgWVDAd0bQhVB2V4SLjy55/w433-h325/Emergency%20vehicle%20waiting%20for%20exit.jpeg" width="433" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emergency vehicles waiting for access </td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>POST-FESTUM DISCOURSE </b></span></p><p>A few weeks later, the residents engaged in a more productive dialogue to try to find a solution that would suit the majority. The local government has also requested input and suggestions from the residents to find the most workable solutions.</p><p>Some suggestions have been implemented such as retracting the pillars for two hours during early morning hours for local business deliveries. The new decree also envisions special one-time access permits for house renovations or large item deliveries, or repair services since a number of residents have expressed concern about access. </p><p>Now that the emotions have somewhat calmed down and the residents are starting to adjust to a new regime, many are calling for patience and cooperation in identifying the solutions. </p><p>Some residents have even proposed this might be an opportunity for the introduction of new local businesses. For example, introducing a local delivery person(s) to assist with transporting goods from the surrounding shops either on foot or using micro-mobility options. Another example – expanding delivery lockers used by shipping services at the edge of the suburbs since they are now unable to deliver goods to people’s doorstep. </p><p>Local government has already introduced “Kavalir”, a small electric golf-cart-like vehicle that drives between the neighbourhood and adjacent produce market on a daily basis. This service is free of charge and primarily intended for those with mobility issues.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGZ1RVNwQCH-g8mXMkRgvpIRyHZDxl7E4-SxZULng41Y38S_rjBfSdBCutiTR1dOt1jYfl_l4OownCxHkJb-ivES6mOpaWW4TjudwS6Pflv_RL52F4A31nPAHJyX6ksFOc31krORPBBHb7rAIbQbkhvNWjaDIatTO5_8tGZlXh5jXcI82jIvRytuD0SG7/s4608/Terraced%20blocks%20with%20narrow%20corridors%20intended%20for%20pedestrian%20traffic.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="321" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJGZ1RVNwQCH-g8mXMkRgvpIRyHZDxl7E4-SxZULng41Y38S_rjBfSdBCutiTR1dOt1jYfl_l4OownCxHkJb-ivES6mOpaWW4TjudwS6Pflv_RL52F4A31nPAHJyX6ksFOc31krORPBBHb7rAIbQbkhvNWjaDIatTO5_8tGZlXh5jXcI82jIvRytuD0SG7/w428-h321/Terraced%20blocks%20with%20narrow%20corridors%20intended%20for%20pedestrian%20traffic.jpeg" width="428" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Terraced residences included narrow pedestrian corridors intended for pedestrians, not vehicles </td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>AVOIDING TOKENISM </b></span></p><p>It is commendable that the municipality responded so quickly to address this local problem, but it is discouraging to see how frequently decision-makers fail to initiate effective discourse with the local residents until complaints arise. </p><p>The inability to engage residents, or the use of the engagement trap to substitute for authentic engagement, leads to more problems and confusion. All of that can be avoided from the start of the process with authentic communication. Time will tell if this is yet just another attempt at tokenism or a lesson in civic engagement. </p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-76632461106792374222023-10-14T12:55:00.006-06:002023-10-25T07:09:17.591-06:00The Pros and Cons of Using AI to Prevent Crime <p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWJPLIW6Vk5ONapgk14JvQlF5qwm67PFN5HRm_YLGzmIFMWQ1axKi6M38llyozaZnNgS5DEdbchb7bRYIZR8CNOqz8atRT7MLedtoq56acid5MZ9jnO5HBd8ZWD2f6Z5EfH4tSVii30bPLM-6KmKIHRwZikEI4n6S_Z96KDU1aN5POFOcFfH1zmWCNMrP/s1000/shutterstock_1745001.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLWJPLIW6Vk5ONapgk14JvQlF5qwm67PFN5HRm_YLGzmIFMWQ1axKi6M38llyozaZnNgS5DEdbchb7bRYIZR8CNOqz8atRT7MLedtoq56acid5MZ9jnO5HBd8ZWD2f6Z5EfH4tSVii30bPLM-6KmKIHRwZikEI4n6S_Z96KDU1aN5POFOcFfH1zmWCNMrP/w506-h336/shutterstock_1745001.jpg" width="506" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In sci-fi dystopian films like The Matrix, Bladerunner, and The Terminator, pollution clouds the sun, climate chaos worsens, and Artificial Intelligence is the enemy</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">___________</span></i></p><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Claude.ai</span></i></p><p>"Artificial intelligence (AI) offers new capabilities for law enforcement and the criminal justice system to help predict, detect, and prevent crimes. As discussed in previous SafeGrowth blogs like "Can AI Make Neighborhoods Safer?" and "Bias and AI - What it Means for Crime Prevention", AI tools such as predictive policing algorithms, facial recognition, and risk assessment systems are increasingly being adopted. However, the use of AI also raises important ethical questions. In this blog, I’ll explore some key pros and cons of using AI for crime prevention.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PROS</b></span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Crime prediction: As noted in "Predictive Policing: The Argument for Public Transparency", AI can analyze crime data to identify high-risk areas in order to optimize police patrols and resources. This data-driven approach can increase efficiency.</li><li>Facial recognition: AI facial analysis can rapidly compare faces to databases of photos to identify suspects or missing persons. This expands investigation capabilities, as examined in “Facial Recognition Software and Crime Prevention”. </li><li>Risk assessment: As discussed in "How AI is Transforming the Criminal Justice System", AI algorithms can assess recidivism risk to inform bail and sentencing decisions. The goal is to improve identification of high and low-risk offenders.</li></ul><p></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>CONS</b></span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Biased data: Since AI algorithms are trained on historical crime data, there is a danger of perpetuating and amplifying existing biases, as explained in “Garbage In, Garbage Out: The Dangers of Biased AI”. This could lead to over-policing of marginalized groups.</li><li>Privacy erosion: As noted in “AI Surveillance: Security vs. Civil Liberties”, the data collection required by many AI systems infringes on privacy rights through pervasive monitoring and tracking. This threatens civil liberties.</li><li>Poor transparency: The reasoning behind AI predictions is often opaque and difficult to understand, even for developers, due to the algorithms’ complexity. This lack of explainability reduces public trust and accountability, as examined in “Explainable AI: The Path to Ethical Algorithms”.</li><li>Dehumanizing: Over-reliance on risk algorithms diminishes human discretion and nuanced decision-making in the criminal justice system, as discussed in “The Ethical Dilemma of AI Judges and Juries”. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>In summary, while AI offers promising capabilities to enhance public safety, we must carefully weigh the benefits against the risks to civil rights and liberties. As argued in previous SafeGrowth posts, policymakers should promote development of ethical AI systems with transparency, oversight, and impact evaluations to ensure AI prevents crime without infringing on human freedoms."</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>_______</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifk5xAoUQeF54CMEur3GaozgRpsuZUevEldnBvRInyKuFzWSa9VnhHIo5_A6GNqblln-xYFu5mqmDXcvGc1YQhr577zOjhRs5wZHh4-gQMp63kAN4SAhMbrHKRIPhGhzmEpOulTTn1f1MVCVnL2QLeQ5KTKfp5JyBXF16iNfiX2XHzlXRgjlmDyktj5GpQ/s2300/Screen%20Shot%202023-10-14%20at%2012.24.28%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1104" data-original-width="2300" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifk5xAoUQeF54CMEur3GaozgRpsuZUevEldnBvRInyKuFzWSa9VnhHIo5_A6GNqblln-xYFu5mqmDXcvGc1YQhr577zOjhRs5wZHh4-gQMp63kAN4SAhMbrHKRIPhGhzmEpOulTTn1f1MVCVnL2QLeQ5KTKfp5JyBXF16iNfiX2XHzlXRgjlmDyktj5GpQ/w497-h239/Screen%20Shot%202023-10-14%20at%2012.24.28%20PM.png" width="497" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">YouTube with Kurt Bell, IT project manager from his <a href="https://youtu.be/VGb31Tas8TA?si=74cnm73q3PgGAWTZ">AI presentation</a> </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><p></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>REAL PERSON, PLEASE</b></span></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Greg Saville </span></i></p><p><br /></p><p>I'm back - the living, breathing, thinking, flesh and blood, me!</p><p>AI wrote the above SafeGrowth blog. Every word! I asked the artificial intelligence platform, <a href="https://www.anthropic.com/index/claude-2">claude by Anthropic</a>, to write a 600-word blog on the role of AI in crime prevention. I asked it to reference prior blogs on this topic. I also asked it to frame the blog using the pros and cons.</p><p>The above text is the result. What do you think? What do I think? </p><p>It did take considerable time for me to edit this. The basic prose was fine, but the fact-checking took a while. In short, it got some stuff wrong. </p><p>Claude by Anthropic sums up some of the basic points nicely. I was encouraged it did not hide the truth of its own dangers like the erosion of civil liberties and privacy, poor transparency, and diminishing human discretion. These are not small matters and AI sees no reason to avoid the politics and critiques of itself. Not yet!</p><p>I was encouraged it cited some previous SafeGrowth blogs - but discouraged to realize they do not actually exist. With hundreds of blogs on this site, it is not surprising I cannot recall them all, but I do not remember any blogs with those topics. Neither did my search of the site find any. In other words, Claude made them up! That is disturbing, to say the least!</p><p>Claude by Anthropic uses the technical writing technique of bullet points. It avoids free-flowing prose or metaphors. It gets straight to the point because, I assume, it only had 600 words and it didn't have the time or expertise to construct a more poetic exposition. </p><p>Bullet point writing, devoid of metaphor, simile, or literary license, can lead to a snooze fest. True, some of my paragraphs here could easily be rewritten into bullets, but reading through reams of bullet points is an exercise in ho-hum and humdrum. It is the humanness within writing that connects us to each other in ways not easily defined. AI seems to have problems with that - currently. </p><p>Yet AI can write poetry and create art!</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVovSXYlecCsAb5MF6oL9gz5UaZFixi61Wr0URTL24uEqGZCYYsGmXoqDmi4yYh-gGDdxdWhMfNRZuddVNYbapAHuobcsaacGlMo9_5awJ_6q1v7jev1m8ooAu7YAuXBQIvCk30o69Rvv_39zD2yZYh3a1i1aqMo_jTMBdL_7QjdEh9OCuwgHuNuP1Irn/s2157/Alkaios_Sappho_Staatliche_Antikensammlungen_2416_n2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1726" data-original-width="2157" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgVovSXYlecCsAb5MF6oL9gz5UaZFixi61Wr0URTL24uEqGZCYYsGmXoqDmi4yYh-gGDdxdWhMfNRZuddVNYbapAHuobcsaacGlMo9_5awJ_6q1v7jev1m8ooAu7YAuXBQIvCk30o69Rvv_39zD2yZYh3a1i1aqMo_jTMBdL_7QjdEh9OCuwgHuNuP1Irn/w473-h379/Alkaios_Sappho_Staatliche_Antikensammlungen_2416_n2.jpeg" width="473" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ancient art masterpiece Sapphos, 470 BC. AI has made inroads into creating original poetry and painting - photo <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Alkaios_Sappho_Staatliche_Antikensammlungen_2416_n2.jpg">Wiki Creative Commons</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>AI lists predictive policing as a pro and sidesteps the ethical problems and critical research on predictive algorithms. AI does describe over-policing marginalized groups as a con, but it does not do so specifically so the reader does not connect the ethical problem with a specific application. Why?</p><p>It lists facial recognition software as a pro. But we know from research that AI facial recognition has fallen victim to the threat of false positives (mistakes) that have led to improper arrest and detention. There were prior blogs on this problem but claude.ai did not cite them even though I asked it to cite prior blogs. Instead, it cited blogs that were not terribly critical. </p><p>The fact that AI cited some prior AI blogs (which do not exist on the SafeGrowth site) but did not cite others (more critical blogs) makes me wonder! Blogs from 2021 <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2021/03/summoning-demon-ai-in-law-enforcement.html">Summoning the Demon</a> and <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2021/10/ai-vs-cpted-at-2021-ica-conference.html">AI vs CPTED</a>, or this year's blog <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2023/02/stop-dave-im-afraid-latest-on-ai-and.html">Stop Dave, I'm Afraid</a>... all omitted! Why? I'm told the current AI chat platforms (ChatGPT, Claude, and others), cannot access real-time data on the internet. Maybe that's why?</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PRIME TIME? </b></span></p><p>This experiment in AI blogging does not convince me AI is ready for prime time. It still needs plenty of fact-checking and human review. Of course, that could be said of any editing process. The fact that it wrote the blog in technical jargon with bullets, and avoided any literary license, suggests AI has a ways to go to create interesting prose. </p><p>Then again, IT project manager and author, Kurt Bell, tells us AI has already passed the famous Turing Test as of 2014. The Turing Test measures whether AI can be distinguished from a real human. In that test, at least, it could not. </p><p>That should give us all pause, especially when it starts with "I’ll explore some key pros and cons". Who, I wonder, is it referring to when it says "I"?</p><br />GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-56720420545693174312023-09-22T01:52:00.009-06:002023-09-22T04:30:17.621-06:00Elements of Crime Patterns - A review of a breakthrough<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8AWdZKuqCdisJxL7IgGBRswrteC_gG7zoMG1zs--M4ypC0WZgZkF0IGcuAQWRConCqoi6yTQ6ssueBJ-f6h4J-a4RgUAnkjGvxWfEMNhtGM0rUgdQ9riycdg44YYTWuc7NWdElfm9jMAdcW1e4ZuYd519wUsIcidBu3shkgZ0N0w10uWqbOLQ8FC0fBsC/s1000/shutterstock_2733828.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1000" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8AWdZKuqCdisJxL7IgGBRswrteC_gG7zoMG1zs--M4ypC0WZgZkF0IGcuAQWRConCqoi6yTQ6ssueBJ-f6h4J-a4RgUAnkjGvxWfEMNhtGM0rUgdQ9riycdg44YYTWuc7NWdElfm9jMAdcW1e4ZuYd519wUsIcidBu3shkgZ0N0w10uWqbOLQ8FC0fBsC/w471-h354/shutterstock_2733828.jpg" width="471" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deborah Osborne's new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Elements-Crime-Patterns-Osborne-Osborne-ebook/dp/B0CHCKB9JS">Elements in Crime Patterns</a>, delivers a long-overdue typology for crime investigators, researchers, and prevention specialists</td></tr></tbody></table><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">By Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>When you think of the study of crime and its prevention, perhaps you imagine that, after a century of criminology, elementary crime patterns are well understood in the academic literature. You would be mistaken! True, we do know plenty about some crime types, as well as the geographical patterns of crime events. But studies about the actual patterns of offenders and offenses are seldom collated together into a coherent, practical dictionary of elementary crime patterns – what scientists call typologies.</p><p>For example, in biological science Scottish botanist Patrick Matthews outlined the entire theory of natural selection after years of classifying different types of trees into a typology. Thirty years later that led others, like Charles Darwin, to build more classifications (and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Science-Fraud-Darwins-Plagiarism-Matthews/dp/1838128069">claim the theory</a> as his own). Darwin’s bird typologies from the Galapagos Islands, along with Matthews's original work, eventually led to one of the most powerful theories in science – the evolutionary theory of natural selection. </p><p>This method of constructing elementary typologies is so well understood by historians that it usually stands as the introductory chapter on virtually every book about the history of science. </p><p>Crime science, by comparison, has barely scratched the surface of this type of basic typology. This is an alarming fact since that is how robust theories of explanation and prediction emerge in the first place. It is almost like crime science got ahead of itself and developed theories without the essential first steps of theory building. </p><p>Until now!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4v5v01YJjIvY830NbeD3KuHJjqwHc8Ie9geJ-usKVpXu3qomqGQcuTQHgwkkVNUpYuRfWNOxYr9C4D8qpVxNj2E7r_f3oOQr0JDMyHzsns2Wa7Rj5qIB--aFbOWf7utUfDyqpMMHR4DXG8VI69XPkuKky_Xij0lGOy4fXLhu5up8j9CgAGJPkzI-BGib/s4032/IMG_2521.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4v5v01YJjIvY830NbeD3KuHJjqwHc8Ie9geJ-usKVpXu3qomqGQcuTQHgwkkVNUpYuRfWNOxYr9C4D8qpVxNj2E7r_f3oOQr0JDMyHzsns2Wa7Rj5qIB--aFbOWf7utUfDyqpMMHR4DXG8VI69XPkuKky_Xij0lGOy4fXLhu5up8j9CgAGJPkzI-BGib/w335-h447/IMG_2521.jpeg" width="335" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PRACTITIONER-BUILT TYPOLOGIES</b></span></p><p>Deborah Osborne is an author, retired U.S. Secret Service intelligence analyst, retired crime analyst with the Buffalo police, and former co-chair of the International Association of Crime Analysts. She is also one of my former students from a short crime mapping and analysis course I ran out of our research center at the University of New Haven 20 years ago. To be clear, by the time she took our training, Osborne was already an established crime analyst with considerable experience. </p><p>This week Osborne published her book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Elements-Crime-Patterns-Osborne-Osborne-ebook/dp/B0CHCKB9JS">Elements of Crime Patterns</a>.</p><p>I was excited to read her book, especially when I learned that she used a form of AI – ChatGPT – to help her collect data. To my knowledge, Osborne’s book is the first published criminological work to tap into the power of AI as a tool to build a robust database for a criminological text. That itself is an achievement. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQXL2KyD4LCvjZTkbU5U5vP3baAWbcqQC02PtYBDackoukkNYuol7Gtq-2Fwzxy9ROumJ-InXSpS57A7E50GTeHZ1x0flvBecDVdoRpvCajOlPT9x_gStcehG7_csEhRAydmitxdqOJrRtsVaAoeIkGFHaNjzauDfn-0mF3LDwKMP6eaPaQINA3qjiFWx/s1000/shutterstock_2242411.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQXL2KyD4LCvjZTkbU5U5vP3baAWbcqQC02PtYBDackoukkNYuol7Gtq-2Fwzxy9ROumJ-InXSpS57A7E50GTeHZ1x0flvBecDVdoRpvCajOlPT9x_gStcehG7_csEhRAydmitxdqOJrRtsVaAoeIkGFHaNjzauDfn-0mF3LDwKMP6eaPaQINA3qjiFWx/w420-h280/shutterstock_2242411.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scientific theories emerge from detailed observations and typologies</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>CONTEXT IS CRUCIAL</b></span></p><p>Elements of Crime Patterns is a field guide to identifying crime patterns, a practical toolkit that offers “the kind of knowledge about the crime pattern domain that is learned only on the job through experience” (p. 310). In other words, this is (finally!) the kind of fundamental scientific research that normally precedes theories and prevention programs. </p><p>Osborne’s approach is not to provide explanations or theories accounting for where and why something happens. She takes another tack:</p><p></p><blockquote>“The solution to crime pattern detection cannot be solely data driven. The informal exchanges of information through conversations, explorations, and intuitive perceptions are crucial in investigative casework, but researchers and policymakers often do not acknowledge this. It is important to understand that conversations between law enforcement staff are [the means by which] some crime patterns get recognized, especially those involving separate records system in other jurisdictions…Context is crucial.” (page 21)</blockquote><p> </p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_c3asPoajFaqaXipP9NadHFL2Fe1WQvbcofO3YsytmNxTvoT_wcwWCLGOmP9gzuOOMTdjPe8tyup70NgGvsQJKrZDVaQsoAALZg0jPdQ_wsKRNyyVUJM0z0fwWxdbRirfMFparfPBC7fzRTgfxW7lURBi97tq4zlgtliyxUqHSQjo3s1nAATqpLkz8nh/s799/phillipstown%20crime%20map.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="385" data-original-width="799" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ_c3asPoajFaqaXipP9NadHFL2Fe1WQvbcofO3YsytmNxTvoT_wcwWCLGOmP9gzuOOMTdjPe8tyup70NgGvsQJKrZDVaQsoAALZg0jPdQ_wsKRNyyVUJM0z0fwWxdbRirfMFparfPBC7fzRTgfxW7lURBi97tq4zlgtliyxUqHSQjo3s1nAATqpLkz8nh/w482-h232/phillipstown%20crime%20map.jpg" width="482" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crime patterns in criminology are often associated with geographic maps of crime hotspots - <br />there are many other equally useful patterns </td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>TYPOLOGIES OF CRIME</b></span></p><p>I did have a few issues with the book. It could use an index and a bibliography (although to be fair, each chapter had endnotes with some references). I was also not as keen on a few earlier chapters on lifestyle, tools and equipment, and routine activities compared to later chapters. Those earlier topics seemed to me too generic and all-encompassing to be of much value in analysis. The routine activity theory has been criticized as, at best, an untestable theory and at worst, <a href="https://dysology.com/crime%2520opportunity.html">wrong</a>. </p><p>Those points pale in comparison to the impressive 30 chapters on specific crime types. She includes robbery, counterfeiting, sexual assault, murder, drugs, human trafficking, hate crimes, and vehicle crimes, among others. There are also surprises with crimes that make only rare appearances in the criminological literature – wildlife and forest crimes, cultural property crimes, and intellectual property crimes. </p><p>The patterns she identifies include methods of different crimes, offender planning and target selection, the aftermath of crimes, and factors that influence crime opportunities. CPTED practitioners should take note there is an especially succinct summary of the opportunity factors that contribute to crime conditions. I wish I had access to information like this long ago in my crime prevention and investigation career. It would have made the work so much easier.</p><p>This book is a breakthrough for the science of crime and prevention and for the criminological enterprise – both academic and practitioner. Osborne has made a contribution of considerable weight. This is a book you should read.</p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-67939566965378260532023-09-09T16:44:00.008-06:002023-09-10T10:16:15.911-06:00Leopard poaching - A problem-solving answer at the 2023 POP Conference<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Fbq5swQEKKo" width="457" youtube-src-id="Fbq5swQEKKo"></iframe></div><br /><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>Last month on Aug 7-9, I co-presented SafeGrowth and CPTED with Tarah Hodgkinson at the <a href="https://popcenter.asu.edu/cpop-conference">Problem Oriented Policing Conference</a> (POP) in Boulder, Colorado. It was the 35th annual POP event drawing innovative policing and community problem-solving programs together to learn and compete for the prestigious Herman Goldstein problem-solving award.</p><p>The invention of my old friend and mentor, <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-passing-of-greatness-herman.html">Professor Herman Goldstein</a>, problem-oriented policing is one of the very few police reforms that lasted decades and, most importantly, works to cut crime and build relations with the community. At a time when police/community relations are strained, especially with minority communities, the POP movement is a ray of light showing a different kind of future.</p><p>This year, in addition to our training sessions on crime analysis, CPTED, and of course, SafeGrowth, there were projects from around the world on a full range of challenges facing communities.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Better responses to mental health crises, more innovative ways to avoid unnecessary detentions, and more effective alternative treatments;</li><li>Hotel fraud and problems with card processing machines that created opportunities for victimization;</li><li>Sexual offences and sexual exposures in public areas, in one case along a 10 miles stretch of a canal with an adjacent walkway.</li></ul><p></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPj6-WLjIq-wFlY4vC9Qw4CA1vsuefurVLZAvdpcCBWQhVkDaNNP4el9ZecHT6V-z_QL9CmP7L7iq_FIylPSpxSICGQp8eS4CXsiqXTebSz5hMAcDgoDfYj8ird6RP09myBmk0GGWmOAEOb7SBNYZzXlm7F-AVQt8y5kwMLKm55PK9d-xiPMywmoY37-j/s1000/boulder.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPj6-WLjIq-wFlY4vC9Qw4CA1vsuefurVLZAvdpcCBWQhVkDaNNP4el9ZecHT6V-z_QL9CmP7L7iq_FIylPSpxSICGQp8eS4CXsiqXTebSz5hMAcDgoDfYj8ird6RP09myBmk0GGWmOAEOb7SBNYZzXlm7F-AVQt8y5kwMLKm55PK9d-xiPMywmoY37-j/w463-h309/boulder.jpeg" width="463" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Problem-Oriented Policing conference at the Embassy Suites hotel in Boulder, Colorado - Photo <a href="https://www.orbitz.com/Boulder-Hotels-Embassy-Suites-By-Hilton-Boulder.h18946869.Hotel-Information">Orbitz</a><br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;">LEOPARD POACHING</span></b></p><p>Perhaps one of the most unique, and inventive, POP projects I saw was this year’s winner of the 2023 Goldstein Award – <a href="https://popcenter.asu.edu/sites/default/files/saving_spots_hg_award_presentation_final.pdf">Saving Spots, Tackling Leopard Poaching for Ceremonial Leopard Skin Trade in Western Zambia</a>.</p><p>I can say that in all the years I’ve participated in this POP conference, this is one of the most inventive applications of the model. Environmental crime is an understudied problem around the world and, in spite of that limitation, this project did not disappoint.</p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSW38MfP-0auA-KO_3701y0BMDnEn67ac_oH4erV2mA_VPwwM5N9KjMZ66L8GC5VPHaCeJCg2aaSDHGvacLXoqGIUhUFMnKMutKSudPtbh98UBsE1xQ86HIlzxS4Z5GE_10FK1W4o7rUwSU6ME2T7m-QFCD31sqc2xr0xHIWLn1JAwu9YTztW5ns7dAWS/s1641/Srilankan_leopard_(srilankan_kotiya)_02_(cropped).jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="1641" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSW38MfP-0auA-KO_3701y0BMDnEn67ac_oH4erV2mA_VPwwM5N9KjMZ66L8GC5VPHaCeJCg2aaSDHGvacLXoqGIUhUFMnKMutKSudPtbh98UBsE1xQ86HIlzxS4Z5GE_10FK1W4o7rUwSU6ME2T7m-QFCD31sqc2xr0xHIWLn1JAwu9YTztW5ns7dAWS/w522-h216/Srilankan_leopard_(srilankan_kotiya)_02_(cropped).jpeg" style="cursor: move;" width="522" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo<span> </span><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=122522835">Creative Commons</a><span> </span>By Lavindu Binuwara - [1], CC BY-SA 4.0</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Watching the Saving Spots team describe their work in Africa, I was reminded how we always know if the police agency in the jurisdiction where we are implementing SafeGrowth trains their officers in POP methods. It is so much easier to implement difficult prevention programs when we have creative partners and leaders in the police department. </p><p>It was exciting to see relevant, and effective, problem-solving methods when applied to such different crimes around the world.</p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-47585604971458729812023-08-27T12:05:00.008-06:002023-08-30T02:23:34.294-06:00Some day a real rain will come - the revitalization of urban blight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10KTM6fnca8UbpTP8IVbUlWsxf0pT_HKB57s66_v7OAvRm9KCcDZgJNPCEq04g1NN5OSnJjn7APjwVVQaPTkv7GXJ5Ixs6cFIym4435bwWNXwOB6R9NoBWmGlfUevkxWVLlq9V5Hf_4dKBH0M0xNZC6yMVIci6_hm_YF1gPXwyQi8S4aPLW_YRT8sNSfC/s4032/2018-05-19%2018.26.34.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10KTM6fnca8UbpTP8IVbUlWsxf0pT_HKB57s66_v7OAvRm9KCcDZgJNPCEq04g1NN5OSnJjn7APjwVVQaPTkv7GXJ5Ixs6cFIym4435bwWNXwOB6R9NoBWmGlfUevkxWVLlq9V5Hf_4dKBH0M0xNZC6yMVIci6_hm_YF1gPXwyQi8S4aPLW_YRT8sNSfC/w477-h358/2018-05-19%2018.26.34.jpeg" width="477" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>You are between fares and you are driving through hell in a yellow taxi, creeping slowly along a dimly lit downtown street on a dark, rainy night. Urban decay is everywhere around you – drug dealers, homeless tents, the stench of trash, litter and tagging everywhere, smashed store windows left unrepaired by owners fed up with the crime and fear, and cops who respond late, indifferently, or not at all. </p><p>Then you flashback to DeNiro’s famous line in Taxi Driver when his psychopathic cab driver character, Travis, expresses his disgust at the scenes passing his cab windows:</p><p></p><blockquote><p><i>“Some day a real rain will come and wash all the scum off the streets.”</i></p></blockquote><p>This imagery from the 1976 neo-noir film Taxi Driver emerges from the urban blight of the 1960s and 70s, especially in larger American cities suffering from the double whammy of economic depression and race riots. In truth, you might be in a taxi driving through many American cities today – <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homelessness_in_the_San_Francisco_Bay_Area">San Francisco</a>, Baltimore, Detroit, <a href="https://www.opb.org/article/2022/04/20/conversations-with-people-experiencing-homelessness-in-portland-oregon/">Portland</a>, and <a href="https://www.miamiherald.com/opinion/editorials/article256075377.html">Miami</a>.</p><p>To many observers of urban life – and to everyday city dwellers – the reality of increasing urban blight in our downtowns is not fantasy. Homelessness, toxic street drugs, and vacated downtown shops, block after block, are the growing reality of contemporary American cities.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>CONSIDER FLORIDA</b></span></p><p>Consider Florida – the sunshine state has over 3 million people in poverty, (15% of the entire state population), and over 30,000 homeless people. It hosts possibly one of the stupidest and most ineffective “anti-homeless” strategies emerging to date – <a href="https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-city-hopes-baby-shark-song-will-drive-homeless-away">playing a continuous loop</a> of the children’s song “Baby Shark” near an urban park.</p><p>Like states elsewhere, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homelessness_in_Florida">Florida struggles</a> with futile and ill-informed laws to criminalize begging, sleeping in parks, and panhandling, government strategies that make no lasting impact on the roots behind homelessness. These responses are contrary to the International CPTED Association's <a href="https://cpted.net/resources/Documents/ICA%20Resources/White%20Papers/White%20Paper_%202016_Homelessness%20and%20CPTED.pdf">white paper on homelessness</a> and they conjure the inhuman images emerging from 19th Century industrial London in Charles Dicken’s <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oliver_Twist">Oliver Twist</a> or Jack London's <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_People_of_the_Abyss">The People of the Abyss</a>.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7vouccHBqmUVM8eswEKCl26irbQz0XSSK38QY3bMqyEc38buk-u4j7eUuZ6fA_DHaJ13Ub4kkJGZ6fXNlGJ5EzsXXaw0uLB7RdZuXPVdtM1t3er3jrpWKY-RGfhAlbr29mEU9k_hYAI_8EuEjuWh5PCBKo0dc2Zjfn9EvS02Bb8mBjHra1mmsmGsA1QR/s1276/Dorset-street-1902.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="879" data-original-width="1276" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU7vouccHBqmUVM8eswEKCl26irbQz0XSSK38QY3bMqyEc38buk-u4j7eUuZ6fA_DHaJ13Ub4kkJGZ6fXNlGJ5EzsXXaw0uLB7RdZuXPVdtM1t3er3jrpWKY-RGfhAlbr29mEU9k_hYAI_8EuEjuWh5PCBKo0dc2Zjfn9EvS02Bb8mBjHra1mmsmGsA1QR/w455-h313/Dorset-street-1902.jpeg" width="455" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">London's Dorset Street, 1903, from Jack London's The People of the Abyss - <br />Photo <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_People_of_the_Abyss#/media/File:Dorset-street-1902.jpg">Creative Commons</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Clearly, existing urban development and crime prevention approaches in Florida, as elsewhere, are grossly ineffective against the growing blight in urban centers.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>CPTED USA</b></span></p><p>It is in that context that <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CPTED.USA">CPTED-USA</a>, the new affiliate chapter of the <a href="https://cpted.net/">International CPTED Association</a>, launched its latest webcast titled, “<a href="https://cpted.net/event-5361163">CPTED and the Revival of Urban Blight: From the 1970s Big Box Stores to 2020s Virtualization of Life</a>”.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="382" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ldjHd4wC5Ns" width="460" youtube-src-id="ldjHd4wC5Ns"></iframe></div><p><br /></p><p>The webcast features the inaugural board members of CPTED USA and it is the 2nd webcast. It is the 3rd online feature of this new CPTED chapter over the past few years. The current webcast aired two weeks ago and it introduces some of the main problems with attempting to respond to the increasing urban blight with urban design without taking into consideration the deeper causes that trigger the problem in the first place. </p><p>Webcast speakers describe errors by inexperienced, or poorly trained, CPTED practitioners who fail to collect the proper data or confer with other CPTED professionals and members of the community, prior to installing their CPTED solutions. They describe government responses such as the Ostrich Effect, the Stormtrooper Tactic, versus Community-Based methods.</p><p>Over the next year, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CPTED.USA">CPTED USA </a>will grow its presence and services. As an affiliate of ICA, it already provides a bevy of services for those interested in CPTED such as training and certification, as well as access to a diverse worldwide network of professionals and highly skilled researchers. </p><p>In the months ahead CPTED USA will expand those services, including a 2024 national CPTED conference in Palm Springs, California. </p><p>Stay tuned!</p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-44740083593417048772023-08-16T00:07:00.009-06:002023-08-17T09:44:30.160-06:00Investing in neighbourhoods - social recovery and connection <p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="307" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/diZe29kLMqM" width="458" youtube-src-id="diZe29kLMqM"></iframe></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Overcoming addiction with social recovery and connection. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span>S</span><span>afeGrowth catchwords - Ted Talk by Johann Hari, 2015 London</span></span></div><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></i></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">GUEST BLOG: Larry Leach is Executive Director of 12 Community Safety Initiative (12CSI), a non-profit crime prevention collaborative in Calgary, Canada, one of the initial sponsors of the 2015 SafeGrowth Summit. In 2018 12CSI won the Alberta Solicitor General's Award for Community Collaboration and the Ambassador program won it in 2022. Larry has been a Huffington Post blogger and is involved in the SafeGrowth Network. He was awarded with the Queens Diamond and Platinum Jubilee medals for his contributions to community-building.</span></i></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></i></p><p>Addiction and Mental Health issues continue to tear apart families and communities. As a follow-up to my <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2023/05/scale-is-good-for-economies-but-is-it.html">previous blog</a>, “Scale is good for economies, but is it good for social policy?", I wanted to dive a bit further into what should investment and engagement with communities look like.</p><p>It is important to know a little bit more about how people have managed to come out of severe addiction. Wisdom among those who have had success in this space teaches us how addicts need a strong support system. They conclude that the opposite of addiction is connection. This is a central tenet of the neighborhood-building strategies in SafeGrowth. The research on addiction and recovery points to the same conclusion. Watch the Ted Talk video at the top of this blog.</p><p>The missing and most important piece of the puzzle is the same for helping agencies tasked and funded to help vulnerable individuals. In this case, addiction is the belief that you and your organization are the experts on how to get out of addiction, instead of helping people build healthy lives based on their own individual, personal, circumstances. Agencies wanting to complete that task need to strongly consider a holistic approach that includes connection to the communities in which they work. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PAY ATTENTION TO LOCAL SOLUTIONS</b></span></p><p>There are times when community organizations arise organically to deal with addiction and we must do everything possible to nourish those locally-based solutions. </p><p>For example, consider the <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2023/06/innovations-in-responding-to-street.html">recent blog</a> on the City of Prince George, British Columbia nurse, Jordan Stewart (our 2023 SafeGrowth Person of the Year), and her now-closed harm reduction site for inhalation addicts. Her effective local solution was defunded, illustrating how easy it is for city leaders to squander the local talent and solutions right at their own doorstep. </p><p>Clearly, we must do better in the future.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>INVESTING IN OUR NEIGHBOURS</b></span></p><p>Investing time into your neighbours has always paid large dividends. When community support is needed, it will arise with full enthusiasm and the knowledge to work with community members. In turn, communities can support vulnerable individuals better by having strong bonds with the services that can help people within their own communities. This is the essence of the concept of capacity-building.</p><p>Like most things in life, you get out of it what you put into it. Long-term investments of time and energy into the neighbourhoods across the city will pay huge dividends in the long run. Building relationships and trust goes a long way in achieving the outcomes that everyone wants. How much time does it take? Greg Saville echoes the mantra of community development workers when he says: “We go at the speed of trust”.</p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-37217908052627119482023-07-29T15:35:00.004-06:002023-07-30T13:50:11.073-06:00Energy poverty - emergency preparedness through social cohesion<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWU3hJMMoqmVSApcnFQcXr1MxQ4vuybJfYfmdT0BXtVvuxHAJK_ALkbVXb_wQtmy3vVZduvxPVD6vPWOh5wvLyBoeUQjCgiw-6Ad8zvijasAWUzq8HZ74uJSNALnyuHaBZdx1O7m0cmIDdcICjFcIYU6cwA-NJXMxY-eQpHQpj0-fxjKBnc5Tq21CRHZS/s3264/Times%20Square_%20Manhattan%202017.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1836" data-original-width="3264" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWU3hJMMoqmVSApcnFQcXr1MxQ4vuybJfYfmdT0BXtVvuxHAJK_ALkbVXb_wQtmy3vVZduvxPVD6vPWOh5wvLyBoeUQjCgiw-6Ad8zvijasAWUzq8HZ74uJSNALnyuHaBZdx1O7m0cmIDdcICjFcIYU6cwA-NJXMxY-eQpHQpj0-fxjKBnc5Tq21CRHZS/w490-h275/Times%20Square_%20Manhattan%202017.jpeg" width="490" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Asphalt roads, brick and steel buildings, and a lack of greenery in cities - the <a href="https://www.rte.ie/news/2023/0721/1395773-athens-concrete-heatwave/">concrete jungle</a> exacerbates environmental heating</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Mateja Mihinjac</span></i></p><p>We have written on <a href="http://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2018/11/from-desert-to-oasis-food-access.html">several occasions</a> about food deserts and its counterpart, food oases. The contrast between the two signifies easy access to fresh food options on one extreme and lack of access on the other. Individuals and neighbourhoods of lower socio-economic status are likely to be in the latter group.</p><p>Now a similar concept – energy poverty – has emerged that similarly highlights the disparity in access to energy resources between poorer and richer countries, neighbourhoods, and individuals.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>ENERGY POVERTY </b></span></p><p>The European Commission <a href="https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/markets-and-consumers/energy-consumer-rights/energy-poverty-eu_en#:~:text=Energy%20poverty%20occurs%20when%20energy,their%20health%20and%20well%2Dbeing">writes</a>: “Energy poverty occurs when energy bills represent a high percentage of consumers' income, or when they must reduce their household's energy consumption to a degree that negatively impacts their health and well-being.”</p><p>Causes of energy poverty include <a href="https://www.enpor.eu/energy-poverty/ ">three factors</a>: low income, high energy needs due to inefficient housing, and high energy prices. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NnWgCu4x3ujkvyRtvvBnCnQUm0y8y9v4nyWK-j7_5tJu8e9WXNaK8m-Bh6ody6Mnl8PdXtzifXCRuGvO7cjUqjP5eR5X3E6RiWuDXJwUYZSf_ht5KiZ3xLH1TOYaUptqeTR7I779kci1r85SfWsaiRX9wHLAouymIN1Gr0G9Oai0UzyqFy_sQljiU9x_/s4000/IMG_20230707_214056.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8NnWgCu4x3ujkvyRtvvBnCnQUm0y8y9v4nyWK-j7_5tJu8e9WXNaK8m-Bh6ody6Mnl8PdXtzifXCRuGvO7cjUqjP5eR5X3E6RiWuDXJwUYZSf_ht5KiZ3xLH1TOYaUptqeTR7I779kci1r85SfWsaiRX9wHLAouymIN1Gr0G9Oai0UzyqFy_sQljiU9x_/w476-h357/IMG_20230707_214056.jpeg" width="476" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colourful water features in urban areas provide a cooling and <br />refreshing break from summer heat</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>The topic of energy access has become a policy agenda across Europe during the energy crisis that was triggered by a post-COVID recession and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. <a href="https://www.enpor.eu/energy-poverty/ ">Estimates</a> show that between 50 and 125 million people in the EU are energy poor.</p><p>This has worsened during winter months due to a surge in energy costs and, as a result, EU member states were instructed to reduce energy consumption. Clearly, environmental threats are embedded in the livability of our <a href="http://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2022/11/turn-off-lights.html ">future and present neighborhoods</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>SUMMERTIME ENERGY POVERTY</b></span></p><p>The issue of energy poverty is now a hot topic of public discourse following months of summer heatwaves along the Mediterranean region of Europe, especially concerning reduced access to cooling in homes. According to the <a href="https://ipop.si/2023/07/14/poletna-energetska-revscina-kljucen-je-dostop-do-hlajenja-doma-in-v-javnem-prostoru/?fbclid=IwAR3_Yd00JtmFEkOkpsfoxQXdOyx7W54FHaWXuCFZMz9cosqoJQmVF-F9Ww0 ">Institute for Spatial Policies</a> “The cooling and comfort in public and private spaces during summer months have to be recognised as important aspects of the current understanding of energy poverty and have to be considered when adopting new measures and policies.” </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLv3d6ZBda_HRksOuLWMYcPO6UtlhpOBBhpKZOlsM-GCwshWQUjJ88I9gzPdwBNv3tnLGTsDm4KSqNPxTbGQWb7FlEyfwFtPqkEq3VJFqiMorycby_vSaWLLsu8SIMc9niWhGLZlrgFBD7_6-Ww9OwNewEinVAA9yAqqvAPxqjwHFfCfrjG3eQh-19dE5k/s3968/IMG_20181220_153326.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2976" data-original-width="3968" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLv3d6ZBda_HRksOuLWMYcPO6UtlhpOBBhpKZOlsM-GCwshWQUjJ88I9gzPdwBNv3tnLGTsDm4KSqNPxTbGQWb7FlEyfwFtPqkEq3VJFqiMorycby_vSaWLLsu8SIMc9niWhGLZlrgFBD7_6-Ww9OwNewEinVAA9yAqqvAPxqjwHFfCfrjG3eQh-19dE5k/w445-h334/IMG_20181220_153326.jpeg" width="445" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0760/8/6/182">Third-Generation CPTED</a> includes environmental sustainability <br />Living/green walls help to cool streets and provide a respite from heat and concrete </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Urban areas are prone to overheating during the summer months due to their structure, paved roads, lack of greenery, and the increasing number of vehicles. Moreover, the elderly, isolated individuals, and single-parent families are <a href="https://www.empowermed.eu/">amongst those most affected</a>.</p><p>Summertime energy poverty is a particular threat because it creates unhealthy living conditions and directly affects those most vulnerable such as the elderly, children, and those with preexisting conditions. While energy poverty is no longer a concept limited to developing and poorer countries, there is a <a href="https://www.habitat.org/emea/about/what-we-do/residential-energy-efficiency-households/energy-poverty">higher risk</a> in those countries that are unable to produce sufficient food or manufacture essential products. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>THE FUTURE</b></span></p><p>Undoubtedly, countries should tackle the issue of energy crisis by commonly proposed measures such as the kinds of strategies we describe in <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0760/8/6/182">3rd Generation CPTED</a>, such as integrating more green urban spaces and street vegetation in its urban environment, designing energy-efficient buildings and refurbishing existing buildings while utilising <a href="https://ipop.si/2023/07/14/poletna-energetska-revscina-kljucen-je-dostop-do-hlajenja-doma-in-v-javnem-prostoru/?fbclid=IwAR3_Yd00JtmFEkOkpsfoxQXdOyx7W54FHaWXuCFZMz9cosqoJQmVF-F9Ww0">renewable sources of energy</a>.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRYsn-wBcc_PL1b4LSR2stofYAw0X6RAprOZAIgnhNbBZZ0IogJtwN4y3PWBMQwhPt2BSXyZXFGGV6hbz-Q16coRcNL5E9wNO0G604L_95vxbaSOW6SIFcAyF5ynWyeyYFl2l7YAxUi5XzPrqmMnNAdXzNbMJ6f87vZhLRC-2AIBWI86dP7OsjYSM_Fft-/s3264/Relaxing%20in%20Central%20Park_NYC_August2017.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1836" data-original-width="3264" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRYsn-wBcc_PL1b4LSR2stofYAw0X6RAprOZAIgnhNbBZZ0IogJtwN4y3PWBMQwhPt2BSXyZXFGGV6hbz-Q16coRcNL5E9wNO0G604L_95vxbaSOW6SIFcAyF5ynWyeyYFl2l7YAxUi5XzPrqmMnNAdXzNbMJ6f87vZhLRC-2AIBWI86dP7OsjYSM_Fft-/w478-h268/Relaxing%20in%20Central%20Park_NYC_August2017.jpeg" width="478" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well-designed and safe urban parks - A response to climate change from the past<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>In SafeGrowth social sustainability also plays a crucial role, especially during unpredictable times where environmental, political, and health events have become a new normal. Governments respond to these crises with emergency preparedness programs. We believe that emergency preparedness needs to be anchored within the neighbourhood itself – amongst the residents who collectively take preventive actions before, during, and after the crises. </p><p>To tackle the summer energy crisis perhaps one response might be pooling resources to help one another and organise “cool places” for those in need. Or the residents could work together to work towards renewable energy self-sufficiency for the neighbourhood thus building energy oases. Such collective action offers the potential for taking steps against the climate crisis as well as for building resilience once the crises have emerged. </p><p>Environmental sustainability is the path to high-quality neighbourhoods and livable cities in the years ahead. </p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-42176638523181198472023-07-23T01:43:00.005-06:002023-07-24T06:58:05.079-06:00My journey with SafeGrowth in Palm Springs<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQn6Vd-Bd7CKi53U2F6QRzJOTJ3K-w1yg2Ld-waJ-SQghVTP7vw78NfDWPJhUYRFdkHKDgw7gjNCjmOHKZAr55hG46hcqsyuIVf46_DIzos71dqJabSNBZ2a8Htekix1YMIzg7wQ2xLDEmWTF5e3vL8COAw0l7DgU9xbJXwqKj5D804zt2wVPzwakdL0f/s4032/IMG_1670.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjQn6Vd-Bd7CKi53U2F6QRzJOTJ3K-w1yg2Ld-waJ-SQghVTP7vw78NfDWPJhUYRFdkHKDgw7gjNCjmOHKZAr55hG46hcqsyuIVf46_DIzos71dqJabSNBZ2a8Htekix1YMIzg7wQ2xLDEmWTF5e3vL8COAw0l7DgU9xbJXwqKj5D804zt2wVPzwakdL0f/w486-h365/IMG_1670.jpeg" width="486" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Palm Springs, California - site of the latest SafeGrowth Program Training</td></tr></tbody></table><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></i></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">By Allison Martin, Ph.D</span></i></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-martin-ph-d-3220b325/">Allison Martin</a> is a professor of criminology at San Jose State University in California. She has conducted research and published on crime patterns, policing, community disadvantage and racial conflict. She is a member of the SafeGrowth Network and recently attended her first SafeGrowth program training which she describes in this blog.</span></i></p><p><br /></p><p>My first experience with SafeGrowth in Palm Springs, California over the past few months has been nothing short of remarkable! As a criminologist with a career focused on academia, I have had few opportunities to dive into the practitioner’s world. This past year, I was extended the wonderful invitation to join the SafeGrowth team alongside local residents, city planners, and police officers to tackle local crime issues using SafeGrowth's unique community-level approach. The journey was insightful, enjoyable, and highly intriguing. I am excited for future projects, as we witness the transformation of Palm Springs into a safer and more vibrant community.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>PALM SPRINGS</b></span></p><p>Every community has its own individual challenges and Palm Springs was no exception. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palm_Springs%2C_California">Palm Springs </a>is a desert resort city of approximately 45,000 residents in the Coachella Valley in California. In the winter months the population balloons to over 150,000 residents who come to escape northern weather and enjoy a warm and sunny climate with lively entertainment and mid-century modern architecture. </p><p>The city has a distinctive blend of urban landscapes and serene environments that presents a canvas rich with potential. By immersing ourselves in the local culture and listening to the concerns of residents, we gained valuable insights into the nuances of local life. The SafeGrowth team stood out in this regard; their engagement with the community, and understanding of the residents’ aspirations and apprehensions was commendable. It is something I truly believe to be exclusive to the SafeGrowth team. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-N_aPn6RANrhmLAWpP6qNulSjhGK4QkNayRlj1HmTCxRydF9nhoX6fwLNlqf8oQgdkaaUFrtkK_-wLq3vmVJYsDBEQEYNv47HVspZ2PJ_XJiXlOInMHnuXIZtqjcOxtJZG-MdnTphD2wxhjcUMrIoK6KKDBKySAmYGfFHXhpMMBEu5aMLk4QLGrkr70C3/s675/Picture1.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="675" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-N_aPn6RANrhmLAWpP6qNulSjhGK4QkNayRlj1HmTCxRydF9nhoX6fwLNlqf8oQgdkaaUFrtkK_-wLq3vmVJYsDBEQEYNv47HVspZ2PJ_XJiXlOInMHnuXIZtqjcOxtJZG-MdnTphD2wxhjcUMrIoK6KKDBKySAmYGfFHXhpMMBEu5aMLk4QLGrkr70C3/w426-h320/Picture1.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Palm Springs Police Department, under the direction of Chief Andy Mills, <br />is the sponsor of CPTED and SafeGrowth training in the city</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>From the onset, SafeGrowth's methodology was promising. Participants enrolled in the training learn to identify environmental vulnerabilities and apply urban design solutions to enhance safety, such as improving lighting and ensuring proper maintenance of public spaces, otherwise known as CPTED principles. Above all, however, is the emphasis on collaborative initiatives by empowering the community to take ownership of their environment. </p><p>SafeGrowth's training goes beyond theory, providing participants with practical tools to apply in real-world scenarios. Participants are encouraged to explore their own neighborhoods and identify opportunities for improvement using the concepts learned during the training. As such, teams in the training chose a variety of locations for their projects, which, after 2 months of fieldwork, they then presented to the community at the conclusion of the training. The projects included: </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>A local motel with complaints of crime; </li><li>A creek walking trail dubbed “the wash” used by many; </li><li>A popular downtown parking garage; </li><li>An abandoned building ripe for crime; and </li><li>Homelessness around cannabis businesses in an industrial district. </li></ul><p></p><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghc403OnPOmbHIM4P1MCDHyDu5KfgsNB231sgXM8hyHBONhAvqWk2s8PkhJGFzDp4ABTdjojTwuJfdbuQjpXuF8x5Qmoprhth7aCs_L_RO3mABIn7sBLcabitquENI6frCqoewlWxG8si-rZ3qRWwbsBYhC1kYjJTZc_flatrvlAEu01ZYUu_HMWq-6zj8/s766/Picture2.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="550" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghc403OnPOmbHIM4P1MCDHyDu5KfgsNB231sgXM8hyHBONhAvqWk2s8PkhJGFzDp4ABTdjojTwuJfdbuQjpXuF8x5Qmoprhth7aCs_L_RO3mABIn7sBLcabitquENI6frCqoewlWxG8si-rZ3qRWwbsBYhC1kYjJTZc_flatrvlAEu01ZYUu_HMWq-6zj8/w311-h433/Picture2.jpeg" width="311" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the project display boards at the final presentations</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Inspiring the community became a cornerstone of their efforts, while the application of CPTED principles, such as natural surveillance, proved to be a powerful tool in shaping initiatives. I was astonished to see the community come together and watch everyone contribute to their shared vision of the projects. At the time of this blog, the projects are still ongoing, but it was clear to see the potential transformation of once-neglected areas into vibrant, welcoming spaces.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ADOgejA5FYg7cAg0hfo-U8nm1N2ZTg2U7ImjHB29ttJaOPPNyyRT1QlHXc_lZdJIquhz0UBIdXIpaEfgf2TNghPEEQFJfs2zbOD7l9LXi3GG2UnGp9S_q4lV_Au_DT_3lW4BiUyk8YBg30H7unya4hfrwK6AuIbN477Eeb_2kPO1RlzCXekUsoZjYqIU/s550/Picture3.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="550" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ADOgejA5FYg7cAg0hfo-U8nm1N2ZTg2U7ImjHB29ttJaOPPNyyRT1QlHXc_lZdJIquhz0UBIdXIpaEfgf2TNghPEEQFJfs2zbOD7l9LXi3GG2UnGp9S_q4lV_Au_DT_3lW4BiUyk8YBg30H7unya4hfrwK6AuIbN477Eeb_2kPO1RlzCXekUsoZjYqIU/w463-h348/Picture3.jpeg" width="463" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Class photo from the SafeGrowth graduates</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Working with SafeGrowth in Palm Springs has been an unforgettable journey of growth and collaboration. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the working teams and I eagerly look forward to embarking on future projects with SafeGrowth and witnessing the positive impact of collective action. Together, we can create a safer and more secure world, one neighborhood at a time, and this training program offered opportunities to see SafeGrowth in action.</p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-48153660519377466632023-07-15T23:51:00.009-06:002023-07-18T11:09:25.967-06:00A voice from the past warns... Do not misclassify risk!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="333" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UJzGE00wncU" width="436" youtube-src-id="UJzGE00wncU"></iframe></div><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A Netflix documentary on the serial murders in Long Island, New York. <br />Shannon Gilbert may have been one of his victims.</span></div><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;"><br /></span></i></p><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>This week, I resumed Zoom meetings with my fabulous writing team, Mateja Mihinjac, Jason Tudor and Carl Bray. Since Covid began, we’ve been writing a book on SafeGrowth. We are now about to launch the final phase in publishing what has been an exhilarating journey, digging into the research, re-examining our many projects, and asking questions about the future. </p><p>Our manuscript examines the SafeGrowth work by ourselves and other members of the SafeGrowth Network over the past decade. The book looks at how different cities attempt to prevent crime and build resilient neighborhoods. It offers a new way forward in crime prevention and urban planning. </p><p>In one chapter, we unveil the myth that wealthy neighborhoods do not have crime because the wealthy have resources to protect themselves while poor neighborhoods, with all their crime <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crime_hotspots">“hotspots”</a>, have no resources to tackle their problems. All we need, according to this myth, is more money. As we show in our book, the reality is something different. </p><p>Consider swindlers like financier <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernie_Madoff">Bernie Madoff </a>or the white-collar criminals who triggered corporate scams like the 1989 savings and loan crisis or the 2008 global financial crisis. These events, documented in <a href="https://www.oxfordbibliographies.com/display/document/obo-9780195396607/obo-9780195396607-0291.xml">The Global Financial Crisis and White-Collar Crime</a>, destroyed millions of jobs, lives, and livelihoods. This is not the simplistic story of a drug addict robbing a corner store. It is a very different, and hidden, class of (as yet) ignored hotspots. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjhfQY8oR3Sm2v_FX8iphWLo70QksJgD2d5aLVGAbbCfTopnqU8ZxG-XhTlpTjWGCvyvsiWmbkmnXZYuIunoY2536LjppGdhI0DC5y47-4mfqAtF7Rr17fH4bXnTDYE2bU4xN9Pvk1glNHS1JSGKlkl0xLOWWhw1E28LhE3IOyd36YNDCuB_M-sWOdbs5/s1400/Screen%20Shot%202023-07-15%20at%201.24.36%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1400" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhjhfQY8oR3Sm2v_FX8iphWLo70QksJgD2d5aLVGAbbCfTopnqU8ZxG-XhTlpTjWGCvyvsiWmbkmnXZYuIunoY2536LjppGdhI0DC5y47-4mfqAtF7Rr17fH4bXnTDYE2bU4xN9Pvk1glNHS1JSGKlkl0xLOWWhw1E28LhE3IOyd36YNDCuB_M-sWOdbs5/w431-h239/Screen%20Shot%202023-07-15%20at%201.24.36%20PM.png" width="466" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screenshot of news coverage of police investigating body drop locations on Long Island</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>In our book, we describe a more logical and ethical way to think about crime and prevention and we describe how SafeGrowth provides a new philosophy of neighborhood development to guide future community-building. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>SHANNON GILBERT</b></span></p><p>Two days ago, authorities in New York announced the arrest of an alleged serial killer in the famous Craigslist serial murders near Giglio Beach on Long Island in New York State. More to the point – and related to our thesis about crime “hotspots” in poor neighborhoods – this suspect may <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SCPD_Gilgo_Death_Investigation.jpg">have murdered Shannon Gilbert</a> in a wealthy one.</p><p>To say Shannon Gilbert led a troubled life is an understatement. There are reports of bipolar disorder, exposure to abuse and violence, and drug addiction in her life. Apparently, she was an aspiring singer and actor, but fate did not treat her well. She eventually became a sex worker who advertised through <a href="https://www.earnthenecklace.com/shannan-gilbert-wiki/">Craig’s List</a> to wealthy clients. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuiAH3FY35vBh4rRZ7Zqcq2h4zKZEJA8O8M8BXL3kNx50mBBWVTtHXEj0EhpJiVpJtGzonMlkbiWR8p2qm5zHFgXSXo80zUEuNIqYc_u35NA_R7s_JgokyMgcvrKrc-2XWgO_DENdVeo8C91TRXP3zMEm_K1h9w3npnhBp3C_ips5rjJItCFW0zYu4lIY/s960/SCPD_Gilgo_Death_Investigation.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuiAH3FY35vBh4rRZ7Zqcq2h4zKZEJA8O8M8BXL3kNx50mBBWVTtHXEj0EhpJiVpJtGzonMlkbiWR8p2qm5zHFgXSXo80zUEuNIqYc_u35NA_R7s_JgokyMgcvrKrc-2XWgO_DENdVeo8C91TRXP3zMEm_K1h9w3npnhBp3C_ips5rjJItCFW0zYu4lIY/w466-h350/SCPD_Gilgo_Death_Investigation.jpeg" width="466" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Police crime location map of Giglio Beach, not far from where Shannon Gilbert went missing - photo <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SCPD_Gilgo_Death_Investigation.jpg">Creative Commons</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Twelve years ago, I wrote a <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2011/04/forts-shannon-gilbert-and-serial-killer.html">SafeGrowth blog</a> about a possible serial murderer at work near the gated community where Shannon Gilbert fled. The story was brought to light via a late-night call to 9-1-1 by a terrified Shannon. She told the dispatcher that someone was after her. The residence she was fleeing was in a gated community in the wealthy town of Oak Beach, only a mile from Giglio Beach where the bodies of 8 other victims were later found. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>INVESTIGATION STALLED </b></span></p><p>A year and a half later, Shannon’s body was found not far from that gated community in a marsh near the ocean.</p><p>The FBI behavioral analysis unit later concluded the available evidence did not show Shannon was murdered. Some claimed she drowned accidentally after stumbling into a marsh. A later independent autopsy contradicted those findings and suggested there were signs of strangulation. </p><p>But there was suspicion of a serial murderer in the area since a number of young women had already been reported missing, many of whom were found strangled to death by the so-called Craigslist serial murderer. Today we know that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gilgo_Beach_serial_killings#cite_note-5">this horrific case</a> of murdered women includes at least 18 victims found around wealthy beach communities. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhban1OWRAF5jEqNAjdliZ1djoGCxIYti0ZYkRxYr4g1ehOcMEA__D0CzJ0pWg3cnyertFHVWbhmEBCuuOn0yQyuLjANfV1wkX7H6ilJlzT6A0IFOLinec7zrgHmMom-fhZr3kol0KOaKsVi4Fiiv2HKoyB_PAbPyEPq_yxzM7j6MKN45BBIEH7A8ckj6w1/s1526/Screen%20Shot%202023-07-15%20at%2012.04.06%20PM.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="1526" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhban1OWRAF5jEqNAjdliZ1djoGCxIYti0ZYkRxYr4g1ehOcMEA__D0CzJ0pWg3cnyertFHVWbhmEBCuuOn0yQyuLjANfV1wkX7H6ilJlzT6A0IFOLinec7zrgHmMom-fhZr3kol0KOaKsVi4Fiiv2HKoyB_PAbPyEPq_yxzM7j6MKN45BBIEH7A8ckj6w1/w431-h252/Screen%20Shot%202023-07-15%20at%2012.04.06%20PM.png" width="466" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screenshot of a recent BBC news headline about the Long Island serial killer</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>WEALTH DOES NOT MEAN SAFETY</b></span></p><p>Shannon’s tragic story, and this recent arrest, reminded me of our manuscript discussion about neighborhood safety and how easy it is to misclassify where risk exists. </p><p>This week’s arrest points to the reality of an active serial murderer at work during the time of Shannon’s death, and that he was active in a wealthy part of Long Island, New York, including the gated community where she called police for help. The truth is that the entire sordid affair took place in wealthy beach communities. In fact, it turns out the arrested suspect is an architect with an apparently normal family life living in a community 20 miles from the beach area.</p><p>It seems, at least in this case, that wealthy communities are also vulnerable to crime and potential breeders of a special sort of criminal. We write in our book that wealthy, leveraged neighborhoods do not provide an answer about how to create safe neighborhoods. Equally, we should not classify poor neighborhoods as high-risk, and beyond revitalization, simply because they have limited funds.</p><p>I concluded my blog 12 years ago by saying I hope Shannon will be found safe. As this case comes to a close, we now know she was not. Any illusion that Shannon might have held about safety in a wealthy neighborhood was shattered that night. Our book is a reminder that a tragedy like Shannon’s calls out to all of us and pleads that we must not look in the wrong place for safety. </p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-958793091778248952023-06-30T14:36:00.001-06:002023-07-03T12:52:20.118-06:00Revisiting blue lights - the New York City project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="408" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aGQg5OuQOZ8" width="489" youtube-src-id="aGQg5OuQOZ8"></iframe></div><br /><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Mateja Mihinjac</span></i></p><p>Over a decade ago our colleague Ivana Dankova wrote a guest blog presenting her research on <a href="http://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2012/11/blue-light-safety-at-night.html">blue lights in Glasgow</a>. </p><p>She reported not only the beautification effect of blue lighting but also a calming effect they might have by inducing serotonin production. In her research she echoed the findings of the <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032712005873">Japanese study</a> that demonstrated the possible link between blue lighting and reduction in suicides. </p><p>It appears that blue lights are not out of fashion just yet. The New York City Metro Transit Authority (MTA) is now installing them at subway stations with the purpose of deterring suicide attempts in a so-called <a href="https://www.thecity.nyc/2023/6/7/23751789/why-blue-lights-appearing-subway-stations">Track Intrusion Blue Lights pilot program</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>NYC's BLUE LIGHTS PROGRAM</b></span></p><p>The pilot program emerged as one of the MTA’s Track Trespassing Task Force’s <a href="https://new.mta.info/press-release/mta-releases-track-trespassing-task-force-report ">recommendations</a> for curbing a surge in track intrusion incidents over the past five years. The MTA observed 234 incidents in 2022, amounting to a nearly<a href="https://www.thecity.nyc/2023/4/24/23693200/subway-collisions-increase-mta-train-operators"> 25% increase</a> in incidents from 2018 and decided to respond to calls for action following the task force’s recommendations.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKLkS1QkEW6U05JwIK68xrTazoLWlgE8voLsl1YIwkByEbqYlGxe1kaCl4AKzHPr8yBt-Q6yFqD9OpV9H06ncvtYUjG0Eam_Kd6TjDYDVZhQdfMO-8nVA6mnVmgNHN45Q_u8-qfXCE7odi8IeMRZkWYroOEUys8wZb14SEikGK0M6YN2-0T5O7uDfv45u/s4000/IMG_20210930_230541.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="3000" height="439" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCKLkS1QkEW6U05JwIK68xrTazoLWlgE8voLsl1YIwkByEbqYlGxe1kaCl4AKzHPr8yBt-Q6yFqD9OpV9H06ncvtYUjG0Eam_Kd6TjDYDVZhQdfMO-8nVA6mnVmgNHN45Q_u8-qfXCE7odi8IeMRZkWYroOEUys8wZb14SEikGK0M6YN2-0T5O7uDfv45u/w330-h439/IMG_20210930_230541.jpeg" width="330" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some claim that blue lights trigger calming serotonin responses <br />in the brain, thereby calming potential suicidal and criminal impulses</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>WHAT DOES THE EVIDENCE SAY?</b></span></p><p>One of the most <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032712005873 ">cited studies</a> on the link between blue lights and suicide prevention comes from the metropolitan area train station system in Japan. The study examining data in a period between 2000 and 2010 found an 84% drop in completed suicides at 11 treatment stations with blue lights installed compared to 60 control stations with no blue lights installed.</p><p>In a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25151192/">subsequent study</a>, the authors also examined the displacement effect of suicides. While finding a 74% drop in the number of suicides between 2000 and 2013 at 14 stations that had blue lights installed they found no increase in the number of suicides at five neighbouring control stations with no blue lights installed. (They did not measure whether suicides displaced to other locations.)</p><p>In another study analysing all railway suicide attempts in Japan at stations with blue lights, the authors cautioned against magnifying the effect of blue lights. Their detailed analysis of data showed that the majority of suicide attempts had not actually occurred within the station premises at night when the lights would be on. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJx3IXLDuJ5ILVCeOE-73IfRbKViNmbQRIdTHJ40KPDr38FifFV9LuLfafAb-W4KrNB1ik_g3yHcizCsB0yR4R5p7WZs8cPJEFA6ZZuKyEgvTUrU2dIBmKnD535dz87SKfYwKBcFj_cTsZrZMYfOBSfOR-jO47AJUPP6UB0oYPh39TlpqPQRkH5y0PicnL/s4000/IMG_20230617_224056.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4000" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJx3IXLDuJ5ILVCeOE-73IfRbKViNmbQRIdTHJ40KPDr38FifFV9LuLfafAb-W4KrNB1ik_g3yHcizCsB0yR4R5p7WZs8cPJEFA6ZZuKyEgvTUrU2dIBmKnD535dz87SKfYwKBcFj_cTsZrZMYfOBSfOR-jO47AJUPP6UB0oYPh39TlpqPQRkH5y0PicnL/w432-h324/IMG_20230617_224056.jpeg" width="432" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The scientific evidence for blue light effectiveness is mixed, <br />but some data suggest it has at least minimal impact</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>They <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24074716/ ">concluded</a> “The installation of blue lights on platforms… [has] a much smaller impact than previously estimated.” The authors suggest that the estimate of the preventive effect of blue lights should be more conservative. </p><p>The City of Glasgow, Scotland, and Nara City, Japan, also <a href="https://weburbanist.com/2016/04/19/blue-light-special-colored-streetlamps-precede-decline-in-crime/">reported a reduction</a> in crime rates owing to blue lights and some call for the installation of <a href="https://usrepresented.com/2019/09/17/blue-lights/">blue lighting in American cities</a> to reduce a surge in violence.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>THE DEBATE CONTINUES </b></span></p><p>More evidence is needed as research on the effectiveness of blue lights is still up for debate. At this point, it seems blue lights alone will have a limited effect on crime and suicide prevention. However, even with minimal impact, its relatively low cost compared to other more effective methods such as full-height platform screen doors make it an <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25770476/ ">attractive and quick alternative</a> for decision-makers expected to act on public order and related social issues.</p><p>It appears that the MTA’s Track Trespassing Task Force is well aware of the need for a holistic approach, such as SafeGrowth, that does not rely only on blue lights, but that (among other responses) includes: </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>partnerships with relevant organisations, </li><li>a crisis lifeline campaign, </li><li>a subway safety plan with the expanded presence of NYPD, </li><li>the installation of track intrusion detection systems, </li><li>expansion of CCTV, </li><li>a screen door pilot program. </li></ul><p></p><p>Similarly, just as individual hardship cannot be addressed with one isolated response, neither can neighbourhood safety and liveability. As we have emphasized repeatedly in this blog, a holistic approach that is tailored to neighbourhood-specific issues, along with partnerships with local residents and stakeholders, is the best way forward. </p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-65955033541721420942023-06-24T22:54:00.006-06:002023-06-27T07:29:51.903-06:00Innovations in responding to street drugs - The SafeGrowth Person of the Year<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTG5UUQT6eZ3docshs_lKxVwZrVUoklPWCqjdNNmCamJwV-0-895x6h5-fYgoZgKA0dFWQFxDvYJt2jxch72MDpwNHypnHTL4X4uGt8sV7jZmBHp0ST5mwTIzp3l86X8vEuKFQBcdkFS0LRqO-t_eUtI2KcVIAZxPw-uWlPuhHjCHMTPJ9D-QCTllgv66j/s1183/2017-05-05-PrinceGeorge.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="1183" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTG5UUQT6eZ3docshs_lKxVwZrVUoklPWCqjdNNmCamJwV-0-895x6h5-fYgoZgKA0dFWQFxDvYJt2jxch72MDpwNHypnHTL4X4uGt8sV7jZmBHp0ST5mwTIzp3l86X8vEuKFQBcdkFS0LRqO-t_eUtI2KcVIAZxPw-uWlPuhHjCHMTPJ9D-QCTllgv66j/w473-h317/2017-05-05-PrinceGeorge.jpeg" width="473" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The magnificent scenery of Prince George, BC, Canada <br />- photo <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_George%2C_British_Columbia#/media/File:2017-05-05-PrinceGeorge.jpg">Creative Commons</a> Wikipedia</td></tr></tbody></table><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>I recently visited Prince George, a beautiful city of 75,000 surrounded by the lush forests, rivers, and lakes of northern British Columbia. It is a northern regional rail center for Pacific freight to cities in the east and a major producer of lumber products. If you want an outdoor experience like no other, and friendly people to guide you, Prince George has lots to offer. </p><p>It also suffers the same homelessness, toxic street drugs, and crime as every other major city in North America. Except, Prince George must also contend with climate refugees escaping towns and First Nations communities from the worst spring <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jun/19/canada-wildfires-reconstruction-lytton">wildfire season</a> on record. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>HARM REDUCTION</b></span></p><p>In some ways, Prince George is an innovator in responding to their blight issues, particularly the street drug situation. On one hand, Prince George suffers the same toxic street drugs, overdose deaths, crime and homelessness as cities everywhere. On the other hand, the British Columbia approach is rooted in harm reduction. Those knowledgeable in crime prevention and drug abuse know very well that the criminal justice system, as necessary as it is, cannot effectively dig at root problems that are better suited to social services and public health systems.</p><p>Prince George is one of many cities employing supervised safe injection sites, places where professional medical staff can supervise addicts to avoid overdoses and hopefully help them get off drugs (which also means getting them off of the offender/victimization wheel of crime). It is only a small step in the overall crime prevention/livability journey, but it is a necessary one that eases the suffering of street addicts. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KCwyxNiIbewdR9pB1ujHpKo0LfhcOoKdndaRrqdv9SrMCl9b1ccFlHea4Jdspq-HLwpfTQ9zI_qsuoTUhlzzBoJsquQiXtFw44zOQCM_vif9HKHMtbRXefYWU6PZYYUE1mD7lsI3LnxJETAPrR4jue73mRCw1nd3Cgq8XnM-cvqiEjPydxmePAEUnL9B/s4032/IMG_1927.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KCwyxNiIbewdR9pB1ujHpKo0LfhcOoKdndaRrqdv9SrMCl9b1ccFlHea4Jdspq-HLwpfTQ9zI_qsuoTUhlzzBoJsquQiXtFw44zOQCM_vif9HKHMtbRXefYWU6PZYYUE1mD7lsI3LnxJETAPrR4jue73mRCw1nd3Cgq8XnM-cvqiEjPydxmePAEUnL9B/w376-h282/IMG_1927.HEIC" width="376" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown businesses suffer vandalism </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>It also makes a major impact on overdose deaths and the resources to deal with them. A single overdose requires police, paramedics, hospital emergency nurses, doctors, and social workers. Last year alone, Prince George paramedics had over 1,000 calls for overdoses costing millions of dollars and, more importantly, terrible suffering for the addicts and their families. </p><p>Safe places for harm reduction create a necessary first level of services to help addicts. The benefits are legion.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>JORDAN STEWART</b></span></p><p>I met some remarkable community members in Prince George who were making a difference - city officials, business people, police, and by-law officers, people who are dedicated to making things better. I met provincial health officials from the safe injection site. Remarkable people, all.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-HlKWOyDx_z4Y41A06AiuPLbVq65faezkRxxD1NVdDfPCiXwu5b6cFT1odqBWx_04bisLyPES4_WYuBTV0g7qgcYRuPW-_GDJDdAik4Tiyzi6QNYUSubtUwrhzgYP97TIXIZF-ih3DurWXeVrfyDhfjpLcoPb0AqgwI682H7QNmXurnraYx1NwtP-SIJ/s4032/IMG_1931.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw-HlKWOyDx_z4Y41A06AiuPLbVq65faezkRxxD1NVdDfPCiXwu5b6cFT1odqBWx_04bisLyPES4_WYuBTV0g7qgcYRuPW-_GDJDdAik4Tiyzi6QNYUSubtUwrhzgYP97TIXIZF-ih3DurWXeVrfyDhfjpLcoPb0AqgwI682H7QNmXurnraYx1NwtP-SIJ/w335-h447/IMG_1931.HEIC" width="335" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jordan Stewart, with her son, on a break at work </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>And then I met Jordan Stewart, an indigenous First Nations woman who works downtown at a harm reduction storefront called <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/prince-george-drug-inhalation-site-1.5989225">The Pounds Project Society</a></p><p>Jordan is a former drug addict and homeless person herself. After struggling with her demons for years, she managed to claw her way back to a life of purpose. She got off drugs and off the street. She went to university, graduated with a nursing degree, and became a professional nurse focused on public health and drug addiction. She chose to pay it forward and confront a very dark part of the world that she herself knew all too well. She chose to make a difference. </p><p>First, Jordan realized that half of the overdoses were from inhalation, a situation not yet addressed by the injection programs. Because she is a former drug addict, she knew that addicts who were inhaling were just as likely to die from an overdose. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3jkO1PV7e5zix9dLZhsmH2yJFZUa-z-sxR24tq7Qxx_XFa6M3gU04Uai-JrSGMuXF6VGmIvEhDVHRYwid9zIj-kPoA9i56MgZT4sCEBZl5svLCjivgVBMyquqPBq1RdkOCb7CYv9hywnWq5lyCW9A6WYrA-CQzOh9nw-mblTnQR-h5ecA3A0n4ArRkMK/s4032/IMG_1934.HEIC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3jkO1PV7e5zix9dLZhsmH2yJFZUa-z-sxR24tq7Qxx_XFa6M3gU04Uai-JrSGMuXF6VGmIvEhDVHRYwid9zIj-kPoA9i56MgZT4sCEBZl5svLCjivgVBMyquqPBq1RdkOCb7CYv9hywnWq5lyCW9A6WYrA-CQzOh9nw-mblTnQR-h5ecA3A0n4ArRkMK/w414-h311/IMG_1934.HEIC" width="414" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Pounds Project - a comfortable, safe place (with a bathroom)<br />to supervise addicts and avoid overdoses</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>Then she founded a storefront project – the Pounds Project - with all the necessary approvals and volunteers, to help run it. She started small with a <a href="https://ckpgtoday.ca/2020/07/13/the-pounds-project-or-preventing-overdose-undoing-stigma-sets-up-shop-in-the-plaza/">refurbished container</a> and gradually located a storefront downtown where addicts could access services. She has been running this center for years and has not had overdoses at her center. Street people are able to find a safe space and a bathroom – something many communities forget to provide, and then wonder why they have public health issues near homeless encampments. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>A LEADER BY ANOTHER NAME </b></span></p><p>It is a truly remarkable story of survival and commitment, superseded only by an inspiring young woman named Jordan Stewart. I doubt if Jordan would consider herself a community leader but, from what I could see, she is as impressive as any community leader I have seen in 30 years of doing this work.</p><p>Years ago I nominated people who represented all that is good in community leadership and SafeGrowth - outstanding citizens who give of themselves and make a better world. </p><p>In 2009 it was <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2009/11/ode-to-sarahs.html">Sarah Buffie</a> in Cincinnati, and in 2015 it was <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2015/12/we-were-all-color-blind.html">Amelia Price</a> in Philadelphia. I have not nominated anyone for SafeGrowth of the Year Award for a while, and Jordan has never been trained in the method. But it is obvious that Jordan Stewart fits into that rarified category of someone making a difference. </p><p>People like this are hard to find. They inspire others. </p><p>She certainly inspired me.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>DEPRESSING POSTSCRIPT </b></span></p><p>As I wrote this, I learned that the Pounds Project was defunded. Jordan and her team are faced with the unhappy choice of closing down their operations and turning away needy people in Prince George. It is hard to imagine the reasoning behind such a decision, especially given the inevitable increases in overdose deaths. There will no doubt be increases for police and hospital services, along with paramedic calls for services, as if those workloads were not already too high. What a shame. </p><p>Jordan, her team, and the city of Prince George deserve better!</p><div><br /></div>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-66611634845909880852023-05-31T21:37:00.006-06:002023-07-23T01:31:28.567-06:00The 2023 Problem-Oriented Policing Conference<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdf93BjitMPUhcjfag8PAb3FifzglZXJk89pL1CNuZ3LXl4_xbHnMnY644_HLb9d19wlWQ6omPg-z0kB7ZWnCPfJoBk_ZhYG7J99b4ymqqRbf2vMyo8kN9_-AU-MpoddPIrSiPhbbbellTEHm4kjZ5jD8SYkzyNZXTxawLhDNKgYIgBAFichXB7tfUgA/s1024/Pearl_Street_Mall.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdf93BjitMPUhcjfag8PAb3FifzglZXJk89pL1CNuZ3LXl4_xbHnMnY644_HLb9d19wlWQ6omPg-z0kB7ZWnCPfJoBk_ZhYG7J99b4ymqqRbf2vMyo8kN9_-AU-MpoddPIrSiPhbbbellTEHm4kjZ5jD8SYkzyNZXTxawLhDNKgYIgBAFichXB7tfUgA/w514-h385/Pearl_Street_Mall.jpeg" width="514" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The famous Pearl Street pedestrian mall in Boulder, Colorado<br />- photo <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boulder%2C_Colorado#/media/File:Pearl_Street_Mall.jpg">Creative Commons</a>, Wiki</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Gregory Saville</span></i></p><p>In a blog last December, I wallowed in one of my annual whine-fests about the state of policing when I wrote about <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2022/11/police-triumph-and-amnesia-part-1.html">organizational amnesia</a> and the <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2022/12/a-post-ferguson-wake-up-recovering-lost.html">post-Ferguson wake-up</a> for police strategies.</p><p>Now I must retrace my steps, stop whining, and introduce one of the best antidotes to that cynicism. </p><p>Each year a group of the best in policing gathers to consider a new way forward for police. They examine innovative problem-solving, community collaborations, and how to use data and analysis to solve intractable crime issues. I am writing, of course, about this year’s <a href="https://popcenter.asu.edu/content/2023-pop-conference ">31st Annual International Problem-Oriented Policing Conference</a>.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_giWO0sJtGz5K4TK6TAyjQ3fF9GOZTkfyaF3vBnreACSLl7KVDEoDYhjcPJaHJ0QbAuTiBbpAVk65zqeYYbLlOdz8LhCRKEZX2PJ54R84vLFwitIw3VjA5rGRv1pZwLMrOyz1tIUiKZQ-XeJpbaBtWddK_5SCVvMEJOHoC_V8ISlqk8nKNzi87iQ1TQ/s1432/Screen%20Shot%202023-05-31%20at%209.24.41%20PM.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1432" data-original-width="948" height="497" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_giWO0sJtGz5K4TK6TAyjQ3fF9GOZTkfyaF3vBnreACSLl7KVDEoDYhjcPJaHJ0QbAuTiBbpAVk65zqeYYbLlOdz8LhCRKEZX2PJ54R84vLFwitIw3VjA5rGRv1pZwLMrOyz1tIUiKZQ-XeJpbaBtWddK_5SCVvMEJOHoC_V8ISlqk8nKNzi87iQ1TQ/w329-h497/Screen%20Shot%202023-05-31%20at%209.24.41%20PM.png" width="329" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>There are sessions on policing homelessness, reimagining campus safety, responding to active shootings, new approaches to field training and the PTO model, and crime prevention through environmental design.</p><p>In short, if we had police departments across the country with a much deeper dive into this form of policing in modern policing, we would have less community-police conflict and a safer community. It is really that simple. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDlldNvLFnBKi9fqLWeu5B6ZxAzMIw5Y0swQeK1JXqq5hYRujVSMwu1T7-wD8KFzKjATEMEhM1d0XWzvgyB2QozOofqAo_dyL3Ko4lijBuU8PnQLeKf10Usjv7lz5qgS_ij2O9hb8hwFh9z8UADa2lYEbLkocYSSyeFoJCe0htnRXfozx2Gbr5tuF9fg/s1000/boulder.webp" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDlldNvLFnBKi9fqLWeu5B6ZxAzMIw5Y0swQeK1JXqq5hYRujVSMwu1T7-wD8KFzKjATEMEhM1d0XWzvgyB2QozOofqAo_dyL3Ko4lijBuU8PnQLeKf10Usjv7lz5qgS_ij2O9hb8hwFh9z8UADa2lYEbLkocYSSyeFoJCe0htnRXfozx2Gbr5tuF9fg/w478-h318/boulder.webp" width="478" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hilton Embassy Suites is the venue in Boulder - Photo <a href="https://www.orbitz.com/Boulder-Hotels-Embassy-Suites-By-Hilton-Boulder.h18946869.Hotel-Information">Orbitz</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>I will be presenting both CPTED and SafeGrowth at this conference. As well, I am very excited to see some exemplary work of police officers around the world as they compete for top honors in the prestigious Herman Goldstein Problem-Oriented Policing Award program.</p><p>Professor Herman Goldstein was among the most thoughtful and caring police scholars when it comes to policing as if people matter. He delighted in hearing the amazing success stories of police working with communities to fight crime. His influential book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Problem-Oriented-Policing-Herman-Goldstein/dp/1514809486">Problem-Oriented Policing</a> is a seminal text on how to do policing right. </p><p>The method is described in detail on the Center for <a href="https://popcenter.asu.edu/content/what-pop">Problem Oriented Policing</a> website, led by <a href="https://search.asu.edu/profile/2677574">Michael Scott</a>, clinical professor and director of the center.</p><p>Register for the conference <a href="https://popcenter.asu.edu/content/2023-pop-conference">here</a>.</p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-69485493077434050732023-05-18T16:43:00.005-06:002023-05-22T12:29:15.547-06:00Scale is good for economies... but is it good for social policy? <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8df6YgTHnQU73ymJ5ruNIhqhRvygqaZWDJdvvRR6QB8Y7x-A94AWQa1WP8h06Hna5eUdLh2Mt28ApTNYJP1e4eiSdzLVv1PsB-PSXTfSjIzWn6wSDcAqn7HdruiRm3Mlw6PZPUwaIwY78CYm8BsjGC5Dj3_17cl_6nfD4bz3G7QCurKuh7MVf33g5yg/s4032/Calgary-2387396_1280_(cropped).jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1008" data-original-width="4032" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8df6YgTHnQU73ymJ5ruNIhqhRvygqaZWDJdvvRR6QB8Y7x-A94AWQa1WP8h06Hna5eUdLh2Mt28ApTNYJP1e4eiSdzLVv1PsB-PSXTfSjIzWn6wSDcAqn7HdruiRm3Mlw6PZPUwaIwY78CYm8BsjGC5Dj3_17cl_6nfD4bz3G7QCurKuh7MVf33g5yg/w536-h133/Calgary-2387396_1280_(cropped).jpeg" width="536" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Budgeting for social agencies - Lessons from Calgary <br />Photo <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Calgary-2387396_1280_(cropped).jpg">Creative Commons</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">GUEST BLOG: Larry Leach is Executive Director of 12 Community Safety Initiative (12CSI), a non-profit crime prevention collaborative in Calgary, Canada, one of the initial sponsors of the 2015 SafeGrowth Summit. In 2018 12CSI won the Alberta Solicitor General's Award for Community Collaboration and the Ambassador program won it in 2022. Larry has been a Huffington Post blogger and is involved in the SafeGrowth Network. He was awarded with the Queens Diamond and Platinum Jubilee medals for his contributions to community-building.</span></i></p><p>I recently started analyzing the budgets of social agencies in Calgary and the numbers may stagger many not working within the sector. While my analysis is not yet complete, it is clear that the collective budgets of agencies serving the homeless and vulnerable sectors are well over $200 Million per year. Most of those monies come from the Federal Government (some through Calgary Homeless Foundation) to agencies with budgets ranging from $10 - $40 million. </p><p>While I wouldn’t advocate that those monies aren’t spent in a justified way or that less should be spent, we look at the scale of these local agencies with budgets over $10 million to examine their relative effectiveness. We ask the question: Can the system and the agencies employ these significant resources in a more community-centered way?</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4dIZFmZEShUK3AmdJp5NwaBRnTZrFqgeMeERivomv7S7NJN9L6MQkuCtR4Jmbwjh_yhX6vIh-gvYPhAFxUPXNzj7HNWwIftolP8TkeDjWvN4i93J4pX78HiKRlUkQ3FSYBkbBlR8tiiIiG6N8d6D7EsAN--MEJy4JKWO9KllXKSLbZ5fe-JuRpIxLg/s4032/IMG_0701.heic" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn4dIZFmZEShUK3AmdJp5NwaBRnTZrFqgeMeERivomv7S7NJN9L6MQkuCtR4Jmbwjh_yhX6vIh-gvYPhAFxUPXNzj7HNWwIftolP8TkeDjWvN4i93J4pX78HiKRlUkQ3FSYBkbBlR8tiiIiG6N8d6D7EsAN--MEJy4JKWO9KllXKSLbZ5fe-JuRpIxLg/w435-h326/IMG_0701.heic" width="435" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In many cases, community engagement starts and ends with a town <br />hall meeting. That is not enough!<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>COMMUNITY EXPERTS</b></span></p><p>I heard a great quote at a Crime Prevention conference recently from a registered social worker, Kassidy Green from Boyle Street Community Services: “I am a member of the community first, then a member of my profession (social worker)”. That resonates with me. </p><p>I work with a team of Ambassadors that walk our neighbourhoods daily working with vulnerable people to help them access services. In that work, the thing we hear most is a simple thank you for speaking to them with respect and trying to help them. It is a one-to-one, person-to-person, holistic community approach.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxFUB4qs-WeReERhi6yCNvWsOUJfwtH2oYNXRVtjmkd11z5V8pPHnhMKtbPOisKmpCfn1TGzRv9AC5vlr9Pm2U5DQNLEQAD4sYxtKLv6sy8lkVLlpefe7FiI9XYXhqSjPLZwkcPLa1A-Ry3NhS5vEqY5Eyr9aR4ifYp6YDxBvAaz1vWMzu5mrkVUMag/s1708/IMG_8182.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1496" data-original-width="1708" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxFUB4qs-WeReERhi6yCNvWsOUJfwtH2oYNXRVtjmkd11z5V8pPHnhMKtbPOisKmpCfn1TGzRv9AC5vlr9Pm2U5DQNLEQAD4sYxtKLv6sy8lkVLlpefe7FiI9XYXhqSjPLZwkcPLa1A-Ry3NhS5vEqY5Eyr9aR4ifYp6YDxBvAaz1vWMzu5mrkVUMag/w454-h397/IMG_8182.jpeg" width="454" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Community action teams have direct involvement on the <br />streets of their own neighbourhood </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>When considering CPTED and SafeGrowth, it is said many times throughout these blogs that the real experts are the people that live in these neighbourhoods. In many cases, these agencies may have once upon a time engaged communities they work in, but in practice, the relationships are nonexistent for most of them. Some of the methods they may have used to justify their approach to their funders are described in prior SafeGrowth blogs, especially <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2013/09/they-just-wont-get-involved.html">They Won't Get Involved 1</a> and <a href="https://safe-growth.blogspot.com/2013/09/they-just-wont-get-involved-part-2.html">They Won't Get Involved 2</a>. </p><p>Like many City of Calgary engagement sessions, you do not build community relationships by standing in front of a room and telling people that live in the community how an agency is going to improve the quality of life. That may help an agency check a tick box for the funders, but it does nothing to establish positive relationships. The best way to engage a community is outlined in <i>They Won't Get Involved</i> blogs mentioned above.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj945lv8qtagqtBcGDeIETeOTLMX1stvdt5EKLySWHvotDuYgJ8B0KXDjD-UOZNinQh5LctZUzg0b8d7twOD7kUK7Bn1qfQbNbZIVFJrLVLicgSdc88p0PV-XGzY-hPOKQWpRbkYGPvqxrGdluu0nq_mQULZfclKpVNSL88VUjPCpH4ZvoQQ_VKxpvvjg/s4032/IMG_8290.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj945lv8qtagqtBcGDeIETeOTLMX1stvdt5EKLySWHvotDuYgJ8B0KXDjD-UOZNinQh5LctZUzg0b8d7twOD7kUK7Bn1qfQbNbZIVFJrLVLicgSdc88p0PV-XGzY-hPOKQWpRbkYGPvqxrGdluu0nq_mQULZfclKpVNSL88VUjPCpH4ZvoQQ_VKxpvvjg/w467-h350/IMG_8290.jpeg" width="467" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Community engagement should also mean fun activities, socializing, and food</td></tr></tbody></table><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>OUTPUTS AND OUTCOMES</b></span></p><p>Let’s go in a different direction. What if the scale of these agencies prevents them from spending time building relationships with communities? What if these monies went to smaller groups or directly to the community itself through the social agency to solve social issues one block, one person, and one community at a time?</p><p>Let’s consider outputs vs. outcomes. Often, when you look at agency reports, they speak about how many things they gave out, from food hampers to safe needles. Does that show a good outcome? How were people’s lives affected? I heard a great example at a conference by Daniel J Jones, Chair of Justice Studies, NorQuest College. When the Police hold a press conference and stand in front of a table full of illegal drugs that they confiscated on the street, does the price of cocaine go down? </p><p>Going forward in community funding, I think we must consider the following fundamental questions: </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>How are we affecting people’s lives? </li><li>Are we improving people’s lives? </li><li>How does what we do affect the community around our work? </li><li>How do we empower the community to be part of the solution? </li><li>Is what we are doing keeping people from improving their lives? </li><li>Is what we are doing supporting everyone in the community?</li></ul><p></p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8984215788964782472.post-33517638797748076242023-05-08T20:24:00.006-06:002023-05-09T08:19:24.439-06:00Tragedy close to home<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha56T8SgOLsNXJJ1l49eUc90njxvKbsYa30uMoC4Ief9WIeJI8F150l0zyzo9EVTvo2ycoO8tUIHV61c1HI5PicqR755oCzh9q--nQwB8445PrnJWX1Wcc2XV-gJWlcsWrS44Yd3J9sXVnpDhmqC790MUFx_zfs7vp4QLUYXbvRUZLK9C09ty8nYbZPA/s3456/pexels-rosemary-ketchum-1464230.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="3456" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha56T8SgOLsNXJJ1l49eUc90njxvKbsYa30uMoC4Ief9WIeJI8F150l0zyzo9EVTvo2ycoO8tUIHV61c1HI5PicqR755oCzh9q--nQwB8445PrnJWX1Wcc2XV-gJWlcsWrS44Yd3J9sXVnpDhmqC790MUFx_zfs7vp4QLUYXbvRUZLK9C09ty8nYbZPA/w498-h331/pexels-rosemary-ketchum-1464230.jpeg" width="498" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Police are not the answer to prevent shootings <br />- photo Rosemary Ketchum (<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-wearing-black-officer-uniform-1464230/">Pexels.com</a>) </td></tr></tbody></table><p><i><span style="color: #6aa84f;">by Mateja Mihinjac</span></i></p><p>Here in Europe, we would often watch in horror weekly reports of mass shootings from United States. Now, sadly, we understand better than ever we’re not immune from them in Europe either. Last week Europe followed in disbelief similar horrific events that unfolded in Serbia. </p><p>First, a 13-year-old boy shot and killed eight school children and a school security guard and injured another six pupils and a teacher in a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/may/03/pupil-arrested-after-nine-killed-in-belgrade-school-shooting">Belgrade school</a>.</p><p>Less than 48 hours later, a 21-year-old man shot and killed eight people and wounded another fourteen from a moving vehicle across several locations <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/two-killed-several-injured-serbian-village-shooting-2023-05-04/">southeast of Belgrade</a>.</p><p>Following a silent march to protest against gun violence Serbian leadership had no choice but to vow immediate action to toughen gun control measures in the country. In the wake of public scrutiny, the Serbian Education Minister has also resigned.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>THE AFTERMATH</b></span></p><p>In the aftermath of the Serbian events, my country of Slovenia has also been anxiously responding to potential threats from within. There is now increased police presence around schools across the country. There were even some discussions about installing metal detectors at schools. </p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolZOzYkQ9elGGKYQz1cHjVuOwnSm-5IgyUp2Ri11nrrRhNK3vfm7sSC4-UTpEj4CisOGvJ1V60I5Q-HavkluGIbS3tf31OEeERVjf7DpZxEEqksLpUBKMCQBiUbwOM9ex5M65Vcbs17FiS_26CS1dZyfEncbRx_8HucVVO61xJe8f0REnsOrVKtAImw/s2073/IMG_1495.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1925" data-original-width="2073" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiolZOzYkQ9elGGKYQz1cHjVuOwnSm-5IgyUp2Ri11nrrRhNK3vfm7sSC4-UTpEj4CisOGvJ1V60I5Q-HavkluGIbS3tf31OEeERVjf7DpZxEEqksLpUBKMCQBiUbwOM9ex5M65Vcbs17FiS_26CS1dZyfEncbRx_8HucVVO61xJe8f0REnsOrVKtAImw/w426-h395/IMG_1495.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teens watch police tactical officers from a distance </td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>One school has also received anonymous email threats, which prompted the initial placement of <a href="https://www.rtvslo.si/crna-kronika/zaradi-grozenj-zavarovali-dve-soli-v-trbovljah-v-okolici-sol-zacasno-vecja-navzocnost-policije/667083">police patrols</a> around two schools and the absence of some children from schools on that day. </p><p>The Serbian events have now added to calls for urgent focus on the problem of youth violence, its detection and prevention, which had been in the media spotlight since last month when peer violence in one Slovenian school was <a href="https://www.rtvslo.si/crna-kronika/medvrstnisko-nasilje-v-celju/664476">caught on camera</a> and shared on social media.</p><p><br /></p><p><span style="color: #6aa84f; font-size: large;"><b>QUALITY NEIGHBOURHOODS – QUALITY RELATIONSHIPS</b></span></p><p>Feeling connected to peers, neighbours, and their neighbourhood, I believe, acts as an antidote to feelings of loneliness, alienation, and feelings of not belonging. The International CPTED Association’s recently published <a href="https://cpted.net/">CPTED Guidebook for Schools </a>similarly acknowledges the importance of social and psychological environment – in connection with physical – for children’s wellbeing and prevention of violence in schools. In fact, an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/U9DPl40HEiQ?feature=share">ICA webinar on school safety</a> delves directly into these problems.</p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6Kgplp4kbMlkCL39Z6hSNeySiQxpP12jcj0xpDPhZonysGv1FgsqF00plEdGHTgM_83lxyNayCckDesFurAKwbS8FJLQB8j-SuoIdRQJk3Q7EG4n-McxzNk6ztVlw628VwoWX2iAmihgK3zGeD-gUUkynQ5WMQJE4c3_KIisa4JzPjH_48ql5gKUxQ/s3968/Engaging%20children%20in%20design%20activities_Saskatoon.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2976" data-original-width="3968" height="349" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ6Kgplp4kbMlkCL39Z6hSNeySiQxpP12jcj0xpDPhZonysGv1FgsqF00plEdGHTgM_83lxyNayCckDesFurAKwbS8FJLQB8j-SuoIdRQJk3Q7EG4n-McxzNk6ztVlw628VwoWX2iAmihgK3zGeD-gUUkynQ5WMQJE4c3_KIisa4JzPjH_48ql5gKUxQ/w465-h349/Engaging%20children%20in%20design%20activities_Saskatoon.jpeg" width="465" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SafeGrowth specialist and city planner, Elisabeth Miller, engages <br />school children in planning and crime prevention early in their education </td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><br /></p><p>I believe that a positive neighbourhood environment and a healthy community environment are even more crucial for children and youth. We as adults have the responsibility for ensuring healthy environments for their positive emotional development. </p><p>Moreover, they should be actively engaged in neighbourhood life and encouraged to participate in decision-making activities concerning their neighbourhood, and their schools. This is why in SafeGrowth we insist on the diversity of our neighbourhood SafeGrowth teams also in terms of age where children and youth can become active participants in neighbourhood life.</p><p>The quality of our neighbourhoods depends on the quality of relationships we have with our neighbours – and children are also part of that equation. </p><p><br /></p>GSavillehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17000359367472580777noreply@blogger.com0