DALLAS — Families across Dallas chip in a few extra dollars each year to see more officers patrol their neighborhood, but the city program might get more expensive because of the city's budget crisis.
The city is considering increasing the fees for expanded neighborhood patrols.
Meaghan McGrath from the Merriman Park/University Manor neighborhood supports the patrols, but not the fee increase. Her home was burglarized in broad daylight several years ago.
"I feel very safe with that, and I really appreciate it," McGrath said.
Seventy-five neighborhood associations in Dallas pay for the patrol service. They hire off-duty police officers for $30 to $50 an hour to keep an eye on their homes.
"I think it's a luxury that not only helps the neighborhood, it helps the entire city of Dallas," said Nancy Wilson from the Lakewood Neighborhood Association.
The cost for the voluntary program is about $150 a year per household.
The city's proposal calls for increasing the hourly squad car rates from $6.95 to $12.95 an hour and adding a fuel charge of $5 per hour for the expanded patrols. According to the city, the changes could bring in nearly $630,000 in revenue.
The money would help make up for the wear and tear of the police cars being used and the fuel costs of the program.
Wilson told News 8 that if the fee increase is approved, some associations might not be able to afford the program.
"I think if you increase fees, number one, you are going to see neighborhoods decide not to participate," Wilson said. "Number two, you will see your crime statistics go up, and number three, I think you're going to find people to get around it."
Wilson says some associations might try to ask the officers to use their own vehicles or invest in other safety measures, including cameras.
Some associations told News 8 they promise to fight the proposal, and plan to contact their City Council representative to voice their concerns.
E-mail mdiaz@wfaa.com
