Council meeting included crime stats, employee recognitions and the approval of safety items

Chief of Police Services Captain Chris McDonald on Tuesday gave the City Council an update on crime statistics in 2023 and what trends the Sheriff's Department has been experiencing. 

Chief McDonald spoke about the top 10 crimes in the City, which other communities face, such as shoplifting, drug arrests, vandalism, misdemeanor assaults, other thefts, DUIs, property crimes as well as helpful tips that citizens can employ to avoid certain scams and crimes. He also spoke about how the department has shortened its response time for priority crimes and enforcement tactics.  

In addition to the Chief's report, the presentation portion of the Council meeting included recognition of the Employees of the Year for the City, Orange County Fire Authority and Sheriff's Department.  

The final presentation of the night came from Townsend Public Affairs Vice President Cori Takkinen who spoke about the State's Proposition 1, the Behavioral Health Services Program and Bond Measure. The Council then voted 3-1 to adopt a Resolution in Opposition to certain language included in the measure which would create a by-right approval process for recovery housing located in residential areas. The Resolution is essentially an updated version of the oppose-unless-amended letter sent from the City to Sacramento last year.  

In other news, Council Members approved a contract for the citywide installation of audible pedestrian push buttons at Mission Viejo intersections. To increase safety for pedestrians with hearing and visual impairments, the Council approved the project at the November 14 meeting. The Council also awarded a contract for new security lighting at the World Cup Soccer Fields. The move will upgrade the existing security lighting around the fields and lower parking lot that are no longer maintainable because of rust and corrosion. The replacement concrete poles and energy-saving LED fixtures will be the same style and design used in other City facilities and parks.  

City Council meetings are streamed live on the City's website and air on Cox Channel 30 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Residents are encouraged to sign up for the City's eNewsletter and follow the City's official social media sites for the most accurate, up-to-date information.