Greetings 28th Legislative District!

It is hard to believe that 2015 is almost behind us. The 2016 legislative session will begin January 11 and runs through March 10. Between now and then we will continue to work out of the University Place office so please feel free to visit, phone or write. And once session begins, you can reach us in Olympia.

Once again, thanks to each of you who took the time earlier this fall to take the 28th District survey. Public safety was a highly rated concern. The graph below outlines how you ranked various issues.

Your Feedback on Public Safety

In the survey, we received a wide range of responses. Many were concerned with drug use and addiction, others feared that a lack of support and after school programs for youth would correlate to higher rates of crime later in life. Most shared ways in which crime has personally and profoundly affected their lives. Overall, the comments indicated that there is no magic bullet to crime reduction. Rather, it takes citizens becoming more involved, getting to know their neighbors, and working in tandem with an accountable police presence to make a lasting impact.

Many who felt that the response to property crimes is lacking will be pleased to hear that a new property-crime unit has been included in the 2016 Pierce County Budget. Read the full story here:https://www.thenewstribune.com/news/local/article45295242.html

Again, if you see something of concern, please let law enforcement know by either the South Sound 9-1-1 or using their non-emergency number:  253-798-4721.

Ways You Can Get Involved

Run through the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, the Community Academy is a 10-week program designed to strengthen relations between citizens and law enforcement. Academy participants will gain an inside look at the department’s operations with topics ranging from patrol procedures and use of force to domestic violence, internal affairs, and narcotics. Beyond the classroom sessions, the academy includes tours of the Pierce County Jail and Property Room as well a firearm safety and simulator training.

The next academy class will meet in University Place beginning January 13. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis, so I if you are interested in attending, consider submitting your application soon.

More information about the program can be found at the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department website:https://www.co.pierce.wa.us/index.aspx?nid=1929

Western State Hospital

As Washington’s largest psychiatric hospital, Western State plays a critical role in our mental health system. After numerous violations and incidents of violence against patients, Western State is no longer in jeopardy of losing federal funding. That said, going forward we need to ensure that the hospital provides quality treatment while protecting the safety of both patients and employees alike.

Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter. If there is a specific topic you would like me to address in my newsletter, please do not hesitate to reach out.