MAYOR BILL WHITE'S TASK FORCE ON CONVENIENCE STORE SECURITY UNVEILS REPORT
August 28, 2007 -- Mayor Bill White today joined members of his Task Force on Convenience Store Security in issuing its report which makes recommendations on how the City and convenience store operators can work together to further reduce crime and improve security.
"The crime trends are positive and downward, but we can't be satisfied," said Mayor White. "The Task Force has helped us understand how we can work smarter together to improve on security and cooperation."
"The establishment and working of this Task Force is an example of how the public and private sectors can work together towards a common goal by bringing all stakeholders to the table," Task Force Chairman Zaf Tahir said.
The Task Force has been meeting since late January. More than 38 members participated in the Task Force. Key recommendations in its report include: that HPD establish a convenience store unit to register stores and monitor crime trends; that a Positive Interaction Program be established to improve cooperation between law enforcement and store operators; that stores provide recommended safety measures and employee training; and that an advisory council be created to consult on an ordinance mandating stronger safety measures by owners.
