The Deputy Mayor of St. John’s is stressing the importance of reporting neighbourhood concerns when it comes to criminal activity and property upkeep.

An information session with residents of the Rabbittown area on forming a Neighbourhood Watch program was held last Wednesday, after concerns over the rising incidence of criminal activity and drug use were brought to light.

Deputy Mayor Sheilagh O’Leary attended the meeting, which some 130 people attended.

She says it was a tough meeting but a good meeting because people were able to share their frustration and concerns. She says while the meeting was specific to Rabbittown, these incidents are occurring all around the city.

O’Leary says she’s had emails surrounding concerns about a property in the area, however it was never reported.

She says the main takeaway is that “it’s important to report.” She says if reports are made to the RNC for criminal behavior, or to 311 for city concerns, then there is a record of them and action can be taken.