The city will begin increasing police presence in the area of the Civil War Memorial across from city hall this week.
Earlier this month, Precinct 5 City Councilor Lisa Santagate filed a motion requesting the city manager take action to mitigate littering, loitering, and noise around the memorial.
“We know that there are significant quality of life issues in this area that must be addressed immediately,” stated City Manager Fidel Maltez in a letter to the council.
Starting on Monday, Maltez said the city planned commencing weekly walk-throughs around the district.
“We held walk-throughs every week last fall,” said Maltez. “The walk-throughs were incredibly effective and brought Public Works, Chelsea Police, Inspectional Services and residents together. We saw a noticeable decrease in issues in the district when the walk-throughs were taking place.”
During the walk-throughs, Maltez said city officials will also evaluate and discuss additional signage that is needed in the area.
“Starting on Monday, March23, we will also ask the Chelsea Police Department to increase the level of impact patrols in this district,” stated Maltez. “Chelsea Police presence is crucial in this area. Our Chief of Police focused on this area last fall following several incidents, including assigning detectives to address and take down illicit activity.”
Results of the impact patrols were shared at the city’s Downtown Task Force meeting, he added.
“Finally, starting on Monday, March 23, we will begin meeting with property owners in the area, including Jimmy D’Amico, Bay Cove, The Neighborhood Developers, and others,” said Maltez. “We held quarterly meetings in the past. This was very effective in creating engagement and getting buy-in.”
Maltez said he understands the issues around the Civil War memorial are tricky and require a community-wide approach, and that the city is committed to improving the downtown, especially in the area around the monument.