By Casey Neill
Joining forces for community safety is a sign of things to come for Greater Dandenong’s police and council.
On Monday 13 February they launched a $20,000 mobile message sign on Perry Road in Keysborough.
The council donated the device to Victoria Police for promoting community safety messages throughout the city.
Inspector Mark Langhorn said police would use it where it was needed most.
Traffic operations, booze bus sites and school zones are already in his sights.
Insp Langhorn said its stint near Somerfield was alerting residents to increased patrols in the area, designed to increase community assurance.
“Part of that is also deterrence to anyone that’s going in there,” he said.
He said some hoon driving was occurring in the area but crime there was otherwise low.
Insp Langhorn thanked the council for its contribution.
“We’re very much on the same page about trying to ensure a safe community for Greater Dandenong and working together to address any issues or problems,” he said.
“We will share information, work together. This is just one example of that.”
Another is the Keysborough South Community Safety Forum on Thursday 16 March.
Councillor Matthew Kirwan organised the event following requests from residents, lining up Victoria Police and Keysborough MP and Attorney-General Martin Pakula to speak.
“The main focus will be for residents in Keysborough South to have an opportunity to ask questions and raise any concerns they may have,” Cr Kirwan said.
The event will run from 7pm to 8.30pm at South Eastern Masonic Centre, 270 Hutton Road, Keysborough.
