FRANKSTON Council officers will patrol local hotspots over the summer period to keep an eye on public behaviour.
Council has established a new “rapid response team” to patrol beaches, reserves, retail shopping strips, and town centres. The team will operate year-round, but resources will be directed to the foreshore area over summer.
Frankston mayor Nathan Conroy said that the rapid response team would reduce crime rates. “While crime rates have continued to drop in our municipality, summer brings with it a new set of challenges. People love visiting our beautiful foreshore, especially during summer. And daylight savings means more people are out and about as it stays lighter longer. We’re investing additional resources to ensure public safety during the busiest time of year,” he said.
“The project also provides a unique opportunity to identify and assist rough sleepers in Frankston City, connecting them with the services they need to break the cycle of homelessness.”
Council officers will conduct joint patrols with Victoria Police.