Goal and Action 23: Law Enforcement

Houston develops secure public and private places and adequate laws for public protection that address both non-violent and violent offenses, and shows the willingness to enforce those laws extensively and fairly. (3.8)

Actions Proposed by Participants

• Support development of public places that facilitate visibility and that are active and populated.
• Enact stricter laws regarding alcohol, sexually oriented businesses and weapons.
• Increase taxes to hire more and better-paid police and firefighters to ensure competitive recruiting.
• Develop an inventory of nuisance sites (e.g. illegal dumping) and measure annual enforcement progress.
• Use PSAs to educate and remind public and law enforcement officials of key laws (e.g. DW/UI, red light running).
• Equip police vehicles with computerized language translators to better communicate with non-English speaking citizens.
• Increase the fine for non-violent offenses – link to mandatory community service.
• Improve lighting and maintain property following Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles.