Priority Policing in Waterdown / Flamborough
Friends, as the Councillor for Flamborough Waterdown (Ward 15), I’m acutely aware of the vehicle thefts in our community. People understandably feel victimized; however, this issue is not localized. Rather, a crime ring is targeting suburban areas all over Ontario, stealing vehicles, and in many cases, transporting them overseas. Needless to say, this problem has rightly become a matter of urgent priority for me at City Hall.
Upon taking office, I immediately reached out to Chief Frank Bergen of Hamilton Police Services (HPS). Along with Chief Bergen, I have met with Superintendent Abbott, and the Crime Unit to discuss the truck thefts. The Chief appreciated hearing the concerns of Ward 15 residents, agreed to the seriousness of the problem, and indicated that the issue is a priority for HPS. Moreover, I have commitments from the Chief that the Crime Unit has deployed additional staff and strategies, including priority patrolling of Waterdown, as part of a dedicated task force on this file. Encouragingly, Project Touchdown - a joint investigation by multiple law enforcement agencies in Ontario - recently led to the arrest of 51 people, over 150 charges laid, and 215 stolen vehicles recovered.
Further, Superintendent Abbott provided me with specific contact information for the Division 3 Crime Manager, which I have already shared via social media. All inquiries or information about vehicle thefts can be directed to Sgt. Tim Bower tbower@hamiltonpolice.ca. More details can be found at McMeekinWard15 on Facebook or @Ted_McMeekin on Instagram.
Looking forward, the creation of a joint Police & Fire compound in Waterdown is essential. I believe our community deserves more fulsome police and public safety services. To be frank, this facility will not be completed in the near term. The City of Hamilton has only begun the initial steps. However, it is a project that will remain a priority for me throughout my term as Councillor. As such, I will continue to work intensively on this file, as I believe very strongly that the residents of Ward 15 deserve more robust public service delivery, policing in particular. Updates will be provided as they become available, and my inbox is always open. Please do not hesitate to reach out.
