The City of Huntington's Public Safety Committee convened on December 9, 2024, to address critical issues impacting community safety and law enforcement capabilities. The meeting highlighted two significant resolutions aimed at improving public safety and addressing property concerns within the city.

The first resolution discussed involved declaring the property at 2400 Fifth Avenue, also known as the old Flint Pigments site, a public nuisance. City Attorney Scott Damron presented evidence, including affidavits from the fire marshal and chief building inspector, detailing the property's deteriorating condition. The site has become an attractive nuisance, drawing vagrancy and posing safety risks to the public. The committee voted unanimously to move forward with the resolution, allowing the city to seek injunctive relief through the circuit court to compel the property owner to remediate the site. This action underscores the city's commitment to addressing hazardous properties that threaten community safety.

The second resolution focused on enhancing the Huntington Police Department's investigative capabilities through the acquisition of a Leica BLK 360 G2 mapping unit. Police Chief Phil Watkins explained that this high-precision laser scanner would significantly improve crime scene and crash scene investigations by creating detailed 3D reconstructions. The technology captures millions of data points, aiding in documentation and analysis, which is crucial for both investigations and courtroom presentations. The total cost of $54,359.20 will be funded by a federal grant aimed at modernizing police technology. The committee expressed strong support for this initiative, recognizing its potential to enhance officer safety and operational efficiency.

In conclusion, the Public Safety Committee's discussions reflect a proactive approach to addressing public safety concerns and improving law enforcement tools in Huntington. The resolutions passed during this meeting are expected to have a lasting impact on community safety and the effectiveness of police operations. As the city moves forward with these initiatives, residents can anticipate a more secure environment and improved law enforcement capabilities.