Burlington Battles Downtown Crime Concerns
Employers in Burlington, Vermont, a city known for the University of Vermont, are reportedly reaching a breaking point as crime impacts the downtown area. This situation is raising concerns for both parents of students and tourists visiting for the fall foliage.
City officials, led by Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak, are developing a plan to address the rising crime issues, which Business owners have attributed to graffiti, shoplifting, and open drug use. Mulvaney-Stanak has emphasized that while there’s no straightforward solution, a significant police presence might counteract other positive community efforts, as reported by a local news outlet.
Conversely, Jimmy Bardare, an aide to the Rutland County Sheriff’s Office located about 65 miles south, believes that increasing police visibility can indeed help to deter crime. He suggested the mayor reconsider her position, stating that having officers in the area can make a real difference.
According to Bardare, a strong police presence can effectively enhance community trust. He mentioned that when police engage with citizens casually in everyday settings like stores and gas stations, it helps to build rapport, encouraging the public to voice concerns and share information.
In May, over 170 businesses in Burlington signed an open letter expressing their frustration over what they described as a growing crisis downtown. They called for a more comprehensive approach to public safety, highlighting a shift in the city’s atmosphere. Kelly Devine from the Burlington Business Association summed it up, saying the area feels increasingly unsafe compared to its historically vibrant atmosphere.
Since August, Mulvaney-Stanak has reported that officers are conducting walkthroughs in City Hall Park and plan to collaborate with state authorities. Interim Police Chief Shaun Burke expressed the need for a restorative justice approach, stating that simply increasing arrests won’t solve the underlying issues.
Despite acknowledging that crime rates are relatively consistent with other similar cities, Bardare noted that residents’ concerns are valid. He emphasized the need for community leaders to address those apprehensions actively and communicate effectively with local citizens.
Bardare encouraged ongoing dialogue between residents and their elected officials, aiming for a collective effort to ensure that Burlington remains a safe and appealing place for both locals and tourists. He pointed out the city’s beautiful environment, stressing that people should feel comfortable visiting.
