Dear Editor:
I write to commend Hoboken Chief of Police Kenneth Ferrante and the members of the entire Police Department for several recently announced initiatives to address the problems facing our city. In the face of all the bad press that police officers have received nationwide recently, it is a breath of fresh air to read about the progressive programs and initiatives taking place at the Hoboken Police Department.
The chief’s renewed emphasis on community policing is an effective and necessary means to improve relations with our residents. The deployment of more officers on the streets interacting with residents will help develop trust and confidence between our community and law enforcement. The plan creates an opportunity for more residents to have positive encounters with police officers and get to know the people who protect and serve us on a personal level.
It is also encouraging to hear that Chief Ferrante has identified areas in the city for increased enforcement, including the formation of a new Waterfront and Parks Unit. In 2014, we saw too many tragic incidents along our waterfront, and I’m thrilled to hear that more of our officers will be out and about in our parks.
I am also enthused to see that police will begin community outreach regarding bicycle safety and laws. As we continue to encourage more bicycle riding in Hoboken, which is a great alternative to driving a car and trying to find parking, we also need to ensure that our riders and drivers are respecting the laws in place.
I was raised in a household that taught me to respect law enforcement, and to this day I have the utmost appreciation for those who put their lives on the line to ensure the safety of our residents. We are blessed to live in a community where our police department is raising the bar of professionalism on a daily basis, and I look forward to continuing to work with the police department in 2015 in my role as city council president.
I believe respect is earned, and the unveiling of these initiatives gives every resident even more reasons to trust, respect, and support the Hoboken Police Department.
Sincerely,
Ravinder S. Bhalla
City Council President