Fair cop for business

By Melissa Meehan
WATCH out speeding drivers, graffiti artists and all round troublemakers – the Pakenham police are after you.
Following a positive reduction in crime over 12 months, Cardinia’s top cop Inspector Wayne Viney will speak to the Pakenham Business Group next week about initiatives he hopes will make the community safer.
President of the group, Joanne Staindl–Johnson said she hoped home-based businesses and others from Lakeside, Baldhill Road and surrounding areas of Pakenham also joined the meeting.
“We are particularly hoping that businesses, not just in main street, recognise the Pakenham Business Group is for them as well,” Ms Staindl–Johnson said.
Insp Viney told the News that there had been a six per cent reduction in crime.
“We have really made some great innovations there,” he said.
“Working with the council to reduce criminal damage and graffiti has made quite an impact – we just needed to get people to secure their property.”
As well as increasing road patrols and increasing awareness police are joining forces with the Cardinia Shire Council to make the community safer – but they want your help too.
Residents, businesses and community groups are invited to attend a public meeting at 7pm on Thursday 24 June to discuss launching a Neighbourhood Watch committee for the Cardinia Shire.
Ms Staindl–Johnson said she also hoped to provide an update on the Woolworths development.
The Pakenham Business Group meeting will be held from 6pm Monday 7 June at the committee rooms at the Pakenham Racecourse.
For more information call Joanne on 0418 344 939.