Lakeland Police Receive "Best Practices Award" from HUD
The Lakeland Police Department received a 1st Place "HUD Best Practices Award" from the Tampa Field Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today for our collaborative partnership with the Lakeland Housing Authority (LHA). Mr. Herb Hernandez, Executive Director of LHA, nominated our agency for the award.
LPD assigns one police officer to work directly with the Housing Authority and their Investigations Section to assist with tenant disputes, criminal investigations, fraud investigations, and other supportive assistance to the Authority. Officer Marcus Baker has been assigned to LHA since 2003 and is a well-known face at the various LHA properties in Lakeland. His "get tough when necessary" approach to neighborhood problems is balanced with a desire to go the extra mile when tenants need assistance.
Mr. Hernandez noted in his nomination letter:
"Officer Baker is indeed a true example of what a police officer should be and represents the Lakeland Police Department above all expectations...due to Officer Baker's pro-active approach in regards to tenant screening and the enforcement of laws...the calls for police service at our complexes have been drastically reduced, and criminal activity has almost ceased."
We appreciate those kind words from Mr. Hernandez. It must be stressed, however, that any success at improving the quality of life within these public housing complexes must be shared with the progressive management demonstrated by the staff at LHA. Management is more than willing to work together with our department to address and correct problems. It is through a strong desire to succeed as a team that we are able to provide a safe and enjoyable environment within these neighborhoods. We simply cannot achieve this goal alone.
Congratulations again to Officer Baker, and our thanks to Mr. Hernandez and the entire staff at the Lakeland Housing Authority for nominating us for this award.
- Asst Chief Bill LePere
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