Priority Agencies Share Insights with the Health and Safety Commission: Key Takeaways for a Safer Future

The Health and Safety Commission recently held a meeting where key updates were shared by the Beverly Hills Unified School District (BHUSD), the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD), and the Beverly Hills Fire Department (BHFD).

At the meeting, BHUSD Board President Rachelle Marcus announced that more than 3,000 students are enrolled this year, which started on August 9. A highlight was the introduction of Loan Sriruksa as Beverly Hills High School’s new principal. She is the first woman in 50 years to take on this role and also the first woman of color.

To address safety, the school has improved its BHUSD Cares reporting system for bullying. However, reports remain low. Some students prefer reporting issues via social media instead. Russell Stuart, a board member, mentioned a visit from two commanders of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to study the district’s safety technology.

Marcus also talked about using hydroponic towers at BHHS to grow fruits and vegetables for the City Greens Community Farm program. She suggested expanding this initiative to the district’s elementary schools.

BHPD Lt. Renato Moreno shared crime stats from June to July. While robbery and burglary rates dropped, larceny and motor vehicle theft increased by 60% and 25%, respectively. Moreno warned about a type of larceny known as “distraction theft,” targeting older women. In recent weeks, BHPD made two arrests related to this crime.

“Distraction theft” often involves a car with a male driver and a female passenger. The passenger asks for directions and distracts the victim while secretly stealing jewelry. Moreno urged everyone to stay alert and avoid contact if approached by strangers in this way.

BHFD Deputy Fire Chief Alfred Poirier reported steady call volumes. He discussed a fire at Funke restaurant on August 12, where quick action prevented a major disaster. The fire, which spread through ventilation ducts, was contained without injuries.

The meeting also featured discussions on performance management by Dr. Bonnie Goldstein from the Maple Counseling Center, updates from the Human Services Division, and insights into Beverly Hills’ water quality for 2024.

In today’s world, safety remains a concern. According to a recent study by the Pew Research Center, 65% of Americans are worried about crime in their neighborhoods. This highlights the need for communities to stay engaged and informed about safety measures and resources available to them.

For more insights on safety trends, you can check the Pew Research Center’s latest findings.

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