Paterson, NJ – On July 9th, Councilman Julio Tavarez brought residents from the 5th Ward’s five neighborhoods (Dublin, Lower Eastside, Near Eastside, Sandy Hill and Unity Square Park) and launched the 5th Ward Anti-Crime Collaborative. The Anti-Crime Collaborative is a consortium various entities (Non-profit, government, and/or private) that have a stake in eliminating crime in the 5th Ward and the City of Paterson.

The meeting, conducted in collaboration with the Julio Tavarez Civic association and sponsored by Cibao Meat Corp. was moderated by Board of Education Commissioner and 5th Ward resident Wendy Guzman.  The featured speakers and collaborators were Director of the City of Paterson’s Public Safety Department, Mr. Glen Brown and Paterson Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Donnie Evans.

The purpose of this ground-breaking meeting was to begin the process of eliminate the walls that keep individuals and organizations – be it government, non-profit or private – from working in collaboration, harnessing resources and tackling, in concert, the same issues that affect us all.  These issues cross the boundaries of the scope of work of any one organization; therefore, by coming together and collaborating, we will be able to develop innovative strategies to achieve long term solutions.

During the meeting, members of the Julio Tavarez Civic Association address Mr. Brown and Dr. Evans.  Rev. Wayne Brown spoke on the issue of youth causing havoc in our neighborhoods late at night; while Mr. Donald Whitaker expressed his concerns about the proliferation of gangs operating in the 5th Ward; UEZ Commissioner Ramon Leon expressed his frustration on the continuous presence of drug dealers in our corners; Ms. Ivry Fulton spoke on the issue of loud music being played at all times of the night ; Ms. Ora Jane Bell showed her outrage at the fact that prostitutes to continue to destroy our quality of life in the 5th Ward; and Commissioner Wendy Guzman articulated her concern on the lack of effective police presence and swift response time from the police department.

Both Director Brown and Dr. Evans addressed the concerns of the citizens in attendance.  They provided their vision for the city and some items in the action plan – including challenges and constraints. Additionally, both displayed that they truly believe that collaboration between their agencies and the residents of the 5th Ward have to be part of the solution.

Before the meeting finished Councilman Tavarez addressed Director Brown and Dr. Evans stating, “This is the beginning of a great and enriching relationship amongst all that are present this evening.” He continued, “This is not a meeting just to meet.  We already have the date for our next meeting; it is October 22nd at 6:30PM sharp, where we will discuss what has been accomplished.  In that meeting we want to see results, we want to see reports; we want to see data, not fluff.  And don’t forget that we are here to work with you, please let us know how we can be part of the solution.”