The Ottawa Neighborhood Watch program is modeled after the nationally recognized Neighborhood Watch program. It encourages citizens to get involved in the safety and security of their own neighborhoods by watching for, recognizing and reporting potential problems or criminal acts occurring in their neighborhoods and around the city. It also clearly identifies the fact that the police need the help of the eyes and ears of the citizens they serve in order to successfully fight crime.
The concept is simple. Learn what you can about your neighborhood. Meet and speak with your neighbors. Watch for and report to the police any suspicious or illegal activities. Make record of any identifying information (descriptions, license plates, etc) regarding people and/or vehicles that appear "out of place" in your neighborhood. These records may help solve crimes at a later time. Attend the Neighborhood Watch meetings to join and discuss your observations with members of other Ottawa neighborhoods and representatives of the Ottawa Police Department.
The Ottawa Neighborhood Watch Program is comprised of three smaller groups based on the North, South and West sides of town. These groups have been responsible for the arrests and convictions of many subjects for offenses ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious felony drug offenses. The program works.
Neighborhood Watch meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month, with the exception of special meetings such as the Neighborhood Watch citywide picnic and the Christmas party. All regular meetings are held at 7:00 PM in the City of Ottawa Council Chambers located at 301 W. Madison St. Refer to the meeting calendar below for additional information.
