Dear Resident
Although we are experiencing relatively low crime in our area, we cannot become complacent and we must continue our high level of vigilance. Our NHW patrollers are regularly patrolling, SAPS and Allsound have increased their vigilance in our area and your NHW Committee is working behind the scenes to improve our security.
The 5 cameras we have are working well. They record permanently and are being actively monitored by Allsound from 2200 to 0600. Suspicious persons identified on camera are investigated by Allsound and removed from the area if necessary. The recorded information can be used as evidence in prosecution. SAPS and Allsoundbelieve that both the cameras and patrolling are an extremely effective deterrent to potential criminal activity.
The next phase of our camera project is progressing well. It is taking slightly longer than we would have liked due to delays at the Municipality. However, we are pleased to announce that Municipality funds for a further 5 cameras have been handed over to the NHW. A vote of thanks must go to Richard Thorpe for his sterling efforts in negotiating this funding. We will have meetings shortly with Allsound to determine the location of these cameras. They will be situated according to our experience of criminal activity in the area and electrical power availability.
The additional cameras will generate additional monitoring costs. Many residents have already voluntarily donated R450 to our NHW. We ask those who have not, to consider joining in with their fellow residents and make the donation to our account. Standard Bank, HRF Residents Association, A/C no 086032119. Branch code 05 03 14. Include your Names and Address as the reference.
We have stated that long term we hope to fund our NHW by having a small security levy on the rates. This additional sum would be transferred to the NHW for its exclusive use. The Municipality needs to have a By-Law to create a Special Rating Area and as you can imagine this takes time. We will hold a public meeting to discuss the implications in the near future. We are also in the process of obtaining full NHW Accreditation with the Western Cape Government. Once again this is a lengthy process.
Please stay vigilant and maintain or enhance your own security strategies. Please do not leave valuable items such as phones, laptops, tablets, cameras and wallets on show and close to open doors and windows. We are always short of volunteers to patrol. If you are interested then please contact Cherry Bullard at bullard@icon.co.za. A briefing sheet for patrollers is also available.
Keep Safe
Your NHW COMMITTEE