Ted Gatsas began his third term as Manchester’s Mayor Tuesday. And his inaugural address included promises to improve the city’s safety and public education.
Ted Gatsas applauded new school programs and spoke optimistically about the future of the city’s economic development, but there was one issue on which he didn’t sound so upbeat.
“Like all Queen City residents, I am concerned when it comes to crime in our city. I am frustrated that crimes like burglary and robbery continue despite the Manchester Police Department’s high conviction rate and successful prosecution of these cases.”
Robberies grew by about 45% last year from the year before, with a record 299. And burglaries spiked in the summer. Gatsas says he’s looking to put a stop to it.
“When I look forward, I see the solution including more officers in our neighborhoods, dedicated downtown foot patrols, strengthened community watch groups.”
Police Chief David Mara has asked for more officers. During his speech, Gatsas said he’s asked Mara to develop a crime reduction plan to be proposed to the Board of Mayor and Aldermen during their first meeting later this month.