Talkeetna neighborhood watch committee meets

A small group of 8 residents, including 2 Talkeetna Community Council members attended a Neighborhood Watch formation meeting Wednesday evening.

After Moose Dropping Festival, many residents voiced concerns about suspicious activities at the Village Park and riverfront. Residents and business owners have expressed concerns about transients, alcohol and drug abuse in public and violence at both the Talkeetna Community Council and Chamber meetings.

Trooper Terrence Shanigan attended Wednesday night’s meeting and gave a report on Caswell’s neighborhood watch program. Shanigan, also a resident of the Caswell area, said that 2 years ago Caswell’s domestic violence and other issues became such a problem that the residents gathered to create a group to try and stop crime in the area.

He said that Talkeetna has become what Caswell used to be. He commented that gang activity, drug problems, domestic violence and public intoxication are now prevalent. One man showed up to the meeting intoxicated and interrupted Shanigan to denounce claims that Talkeetna has problems.

Shanigan stressed that all residents should call 911 with any report, whether it be drunk driving, violence, noise complaints, and other issues. He says troopers may not be able to respond every time, depending on what else is occurring at the time. All 911 calls go on the record and their supervisor keeps track of problem areas.

Michieal Abe, with the division of Mat Su Borough emergency service, was present and spoke to the small group about how to start a neighborhood watch program, complete with signs and checklists.

The group, headed by Jok Bonderant and Loudon Wilson, is planning another meeting next Tuesday at the Talkeetna Roadhouse if schedules allow. Stay tuned for their announcements.

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