Make a Difference in Your Neighborhood

July 15, 2014

RNeighbors, the Rochester Neighborhood Resource Center, works in our community to efficiently and collectively organize resources, and encourage neighbors of all ages to interact with one another to build relationships that foster a diverse, welcoming community.

The tips below, as well as important local phone numbers are available in a brochure format that can be accessed on our website.

Here’s a list of simple steps that can help you make a difference in your neighborhood today.

1. Report crime promptly.

Neighbors sometimes don’t report criminal activity because they don’t want to bother the police, they assume police are too short-staffed to respond, or they believe that there isn’t much an offi cer can do about a given problem. Whether the issue is graffiti, petty vandalism, or something much more serious, police cannot act without hearing about the problem. Also, don’t assume someone else has called. Make the call.

2. Report nuisances and other non-criminal problems promptly.

Examples: Junked cars on front lawns, abandoned autos in the streets, old mattresses in a backyard, garbage dumped in a vacant lot. When you’re thinking, “someone ought to do something,” do something. For vehicles parked on front lawns, contact Rochester Planning & Zoning Department at (507) 328-7100. Abandoned vehicles on the street should be referred to the Rochester Police department-non-emergency number at (507) 328-6800. Building Safety at (507) 328-2600 is responsible for abandoned vehicles on rental and owner occupied properties; abandoned vehicles on commercial property should be referred to Planning & Zoning Department at (507) 328-2600. Call your neighbors and ask them to call and report as well. Keep calling until the issue is resolved.

3. Take away the opportunity for crime.

Think about your home, your car, and even your lifestyle and ask what you could change to take away

the opportunity for crime. Lock your car, and never leave valuables where they can be seen. Trim bushes or trees on your property that offer too-convenient hiding places. Also trim where trees and bushes block a clear view of your front door from the street or make it difficult to see out of windows in your home.

4. Meet the youth who live on your block and greet them by name.

Take the time to meet the kids and young adults who live on your block. Greet them by name. This is a simple step, yet it can make a profound difference in a neighborhood. You can help create a safe and supportive community.

5. Make a list of the names and phone numbers of every neighbor on your block.

Not just two neighbors – set a goal of at least 10 and preferably more. Unless you know neighbors’ names and numbers, you can’t call them about a concern or let them know about a neighborhood problem. Learn the names and phone numbers of your neighbors this weekend.

6. Make a list of landlords in your area.

As owners of property in the community, landlords are responsible to the neighborhood and most are concerned about the health of the community in which their properties stand. You can find out the name and address of who owns any property, including the rental house next door, by contacting Property Records and Licensing at (507) 328-7670.

7. Turn your porch light on.

Do this every night at dusk and keep it on till dawn. Crime tends to decline in neighborhoods that are well lit. It also makes the street feel more “welcome” to residents who are out for a walk. It communicates a higher level of caring for the neighborhood by residents.

8. Walk around the block.

It sounds simple enough, but neighbors benefit over time when responsible citizens walk around their neighborhoods. At minimum, walk around the block, once every day. Take the time to chat with neighbors, including youth, when given the chance.

9. Drive slowly on neighborhood streets.

Stop signs, traffic lights, and speed bumps are not the only things that can slow down traffic in your neighborhood. Drivers looking for a short cut won’t find it as desirable to cut through a neighborhood if the traffic moves at a slower pace. Take a simple step to organize with your neighbors and perhaps reduce traffic volume at the same time. It is legal to drive a few miles per hour below the speed limit in your neighborhood.

10. Pick up the litter near your home, even if you didn’t put it there.

People are less likely to litter where they don’t see litter already. You can help stop the growth of trash in your neighborhood by taking away the existing litter that attracts it. Be sure to participate in the annual city-wide litter pick up, A Litter Bit Better. Call 328-2431 for more information.

11. Stay where you are.

Stable neighborhoods are built on the commitment of long term residents who would rather live in a healthy community than move to a bigger house. Communities reach stability when conscientious citizens allow their roots to grow deep. Please, stay and help.

12. Help your neighborhood association, crime watch, or similar groups.

If you are willing, decide what your strengths are and what contribution you would like to make – then take the lead and do it. If leadership isn’t your desire, at least make sure someone in your household attends local neighborhood association meetings. You’ll be kept better informed of the issues facing the neighborhood, how you can help and, perhaps more importantly, you’ll have the chance to shape, guide, and participate in the future of your neighborhood.

And don’t stop at 12 steps!

Do whatever else you can to make your neighborhood a safe and enjoyable place to live, work, go to school, and raise a family.

Living in a good neighborhood isn’t a right; it’s a responsibility.

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