Last year, we continued to upgrade the Department s equipment, including a new ambulance at Marcella and exhaust systems for all fire houses. This year, I look forward to working with Chief Parks and Deputy Chief Benton to meet the challenges of our Department. The Council and I will pass an ordinance to provide the Fire Department with greater input in the development process before our boards. We will also work to address issues of daytime calls. Our Police Department continues to do an outstanding job meeting the public safety demands of our community under the leadership of Chief Joe Devine.
Crime is down, particularly in the areas of burglary and auto thefts.
Community policing initiatives are also having a positive impact in our community. The 7 th grade DARE program, bike patrols, the Police Athletic League, and park-walk and talk programs are bringing down barriers and integrating police officers into our community in ways that prevent crime and enhance community spirit. Our recreation programs continue to thrive and our number of participants continues to grow. This year, we will continue to expand our inventory of ball fields by commencing development of new fields at the Jersey City Girl Scout Camp, Camp Hudsonia, located on Green Pond Road across the street from KDM School. The Township took title to this property in December, 1999.