Towson is a center for law, medicine, higher education and government, with strong neighborhoods and a bright future. Its residents, business owners, and visitors expect a safe community.
Since 2010, our office has worked with the County Executive and the Towson precinct on several initiatives to enhance public safety. Our office has worked to increase the number of police at the Towson precinct. We have also worked to improve lighting throughout Downtown Towson; to expand traffic calming and reduce speeding; and to enlarge the Citizens on Patrol program, a neighborhood watch program. In 2014, the County Council passed legislation aimed at reducing the likelihood of robberies by banning electronic cell phone recycling kiosks.
Recent events in the Towson area have highlighted the importance of public safety. No one should feel unsafe living in Towson or working at or patronizing a business in Towson. Customers and employees should be able to leave Towson Town Center without worrying about excessive loitering.
Before the Christmas holiday, our office brought together Delegate Lafferty, a representative from Senator Brochin’s office, and community and business leaders. We met with Chief of Police Jim Johnson for over an hour to brainstorm ideas. We had frank discussions about the responsibilities of bar owners, and we specifically asked for more police presence, including in neighborhoods adjacent to Downtown Towson once the student population returns.
There are now more than 120 officers assigned to the precinct. I respect the hard work and responsiveness of our police officers, but also believe we need more manpower.
With regard to this weekend’s incident at Towson Town Center, I have called for General Growth Properties to revisit whether younger patrons should be accompanied by parents or guardians. The Avenue at White Marsh and other shopping areas have youth escort policies. Clearly, there is a body of knowledge about what works.
We will continue to improve public safety in the Towson area, and to engage key stakeholders in constructive discussions about what works. I thank those residents who have contacted my office and who care about this issue.