In the cozy confines of Loomis Town Hall, council members gathered on December 10, 2024, to address pressing community concerns as the holiday season approaches. With Christmas just weeks away, discussions centered on public safety, particularly the rise in package thefts that often accompanies the festive period.

Officer Bilodeau emphasized the importance of residents picking up their packages promptly upon delivery to deter thieves. "We always see a rise in package thefts," he noted, urging citizens to stay vigilant. He also introduced the Eagle Eye program, which encourages residents to register their security cameras with local law enforcement. This initiative aims to create a map of camera locations, allowing police to quickly access potential footage in the event of a crime. "Without cameras, it's hard to solve," he explained, highlighting the program's success in solving previous cases.

Residents expressed interest in participating in the Eagle Eye program, seeking clarity on how to register their cameras. Officer Bilodeau reassured them that any functioning camera could be registered, and the police would not have access to the footage—only the locations would be mapped. This reassurance seemed to alleviate concerns, as community members recognized the potential benefits of collaboration in enhancing local safety.

The conversation also touched on the FUSIS system, which allows for more advanced surveillance capabilities, including license plate recognition. This system has proven effective in apprehending suspects in previous incidents, showcasing the importance of technology in modern policing.

As the meeting progressed, Chief Dirich provided updates on emergency response statistics, noting a significant number of medical calls and the need for improved response times. He encouraged residents to maintain their fireplaces and chimneys, especially during the winter months, to prevent fire hazards. "We don’t want to see any fires, especially this time of year," he cautioned, sharing tips on safe disposal of ashes to prevent accidental blazes.

The meeting concluded with a sense of community engagement and proactive measures. As Loomis prepares for the holiday season, the council's discussions reflect a commitment to ensuring safety and fostering collaboration between residents and law enforcement. With initiatives like Eagle Eye and FUSIS, the town is taking steps to enhance security, making Loomis a safer place for all its residents.