I understand that the city is challenged in its tax base, and it is expensive to build, improve, market or recruit quality staff, particularly reliable, visible officers for the city police force. Our city officials deserve considerable credit for doing a most difficult job, and are appreciated.
I am writing to express alarm and serious concern for staffing priorities. This past Sunday, I drove to the Mississippi Art Museum, which showcases excellent talent of current and formerly producing artists. Four of my grandchildren were with me, two of whom are talented in art; all of them enjoy the children's crafts and the beauty of exhibits.
We parked, got out, and I noticed a gentleman slowly pedalling a small bicycle back and forth next to the parking area where we had just emerged from the only car there. Suddenly, my antennae went up: he was looking at my grandchildren. I stood still and waited.
He then got off the bike, stepped behind some large plants, eventually emerged, got on his bike again and resumed slowly going back and forth as if trolling for something.
This went on for some time, as I sent the children on ahead and stayed to observe him. His pattern of movement continued for some minutes, never far from my car.
Seeing the disheveled clothing, I realized he was homeless. I waited. Finally, I called the children back to the car. We left, and drove around downtown for about 1/2 hour. I pointed out to my oldest granddaughter where former businesses were, what the city used to look like, now with many places boarded up and "for lease."
I waited to see a police cruiser, an officer, or a security guard. Nothing. There was no law enforcement presence anywhere. We saw other homeless people, none particularly threatening, just sitting or standing on the sidewalk.
While I gladly support helping ministries of aid, food and beds, I realized that I am now for the first time, afraid to take my family to a city museum in broad daylight! I have never been angry at a sick or disadvantaged person in my life, but I was now furious.
One poor man's repetitive, trolling despair could mean possible danger to the children or to my car. He had nothing to lose. I had a lot to protect. Will you please hire - and deploy for downtown patrols! - competent, present (!) police officers, so the city can rebound and recover in safety??
PS. Driving to Broad Street restaurant, I
at last spotted a police car. It was empty.....
Linda Berry is a Northsider.
