Hermanus does not have such a source of permanent income and must rely on support from all its residents. As part of the national efforts to fight increasing crime, the provincial government has stated that municipal police forces are to be implemented. This was mentioned in the Hermanus Times of 27 April. Due to the current state of criminal activity the committee has decided to go ahead with an application. The HPP has initiated discussions with the main security companies operating in Hermanus to enter into a combined security effort for the area.
Negotiations are well advanced.
Residents will be invited to a public meeting which should be held in July after the school holidays in order to ensure the attendance of all permanent residents. Plans for improved 24 hour security patrols in the suburbs and special public protection officers on foot and cycles within the CBD and on cliff paths will be explained. Ratepayers will be able to ask questions and if necessary, register objections or submit ideas for inclusion in final plans. This initiative will provide a positive attempt to reduce crime in the main residential and central business areas of old Hermanus and it is hoped that other areas will follow suit. Should the Overstrand municipality eventually be in a position to implement a municipal police force, the interim operation could be integrated into the municipal structure, terminated or continued.