Calais Resident Proposes Neighborhood Watch Program, Seeks Public Input
Jayna Smith
In a bid to tackle rising concerns about safety and the encroachment of negative elements, Leonard Rafferty, a Calais resident and pastor of Keys to Life Church on North Street, is spearheading an initiative to establish a neighborhood watch program. Rafferty, who moved to Calais with his family in June 2019, expressed a deep commitment to fostering a safe and attractive environment for residents.
Having spent the last five-plus years integrating into the community, Rafferty has listened to the worries of many, particularly echoing among the older residents. Issues range from alleged drug houses and waterfront littering by vagrants to road damage caused by reckless drivers, all contributing to a growing perception of unsafety.
“As a homeowner who pays taxes to support this city, I want our city to be known as one that is safe, clean, and attractive to younger families and new businesses,” Rafferty emphasized.
Citing research on organized neighborhood watch programs, Rafferty believes that such initiatives not only reduce crime but also strengthen community bonds, ultimately elevating the overall quality of the city. His vision is one where neighbors unite to support each other and collaborate with the understaffed police department to make Calais a sought-after destination in Maine.
To gauge community interest and involvement, Rafferty has launched a short, anonymous online survey accessible at https://forms.office.com/r/7k8Kbg4qiU. The survey seeks input on the amount of time residents are willing to commit to the program, offering various options to cater to diverse schedules.
“I plan to run the survey for 30 days, after which I will post the results and schedule a first meeting if there is enough interest,” Rafferty said.
Before convening the inaugural meeting, Rafferty intends to confer with Calais Police Chief Dave Randall to tailor the neighborhood watch program to Calais’ specific needs. Following this, he plans to enroll in the national neighborhood watch program and initiate the program in collaboration with interested community members.
The proposed initiative hinges on public support, and Rafferty is optimistic that, with a strong show of interest, the program can take meaningful strides toward ensuring the safety and well-being of Calais residents.
For additional information on Rafferty’s proposal, he may be reached by calling 207-619-1209 or emailing [email protected].
