GaryMrMets
02-05-2002, 09:15 PM
http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Cities/Safest.asp?gate=aolfinance&source=a2anptmt692
Top Five Safest Cities
Check out the safest places in America
By Melissa Bigner
Homestore.com Contributor
Headlines being as they are these days, no one would blame you if you thought of relocating to a town that was a little less bustling than the big city. If safety—everyday public safety—is your priority, we've got some leads for you. Each year the Kansas-based Morgan Quitno Press analyzes crime data submitted to the FBI by city and metropolitan governments representing up to 75,000 residents. The group looks at the number of murders, rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, burglaries and motor vehicle thefts to create their list. Here's a closer look at the top five safest cities in America, based on the latest rankings.
Amherst, New York
You got to love a winner, and Amherst is just that. "This marks the third time in four years that Amherst has earned the number one ranking in our annual Safest Cities competition," says Scott Morgan, President of Morgan Quitno. "With no murders, the fourth lowest rape rate, the tenth lowest robbery rate and the fifth lowest aggravated assault rate, Amherst has one of the lowest violent crime rates of any city."
A suburb of Buffalo, the upscale community is anchored by the University of Buffalo and known for its green spaces, golf courses and gorgeous homes. Close to Niagara Falls, this ideal community hosts ice skating camps in the winter and was the site of the 2001 Special Olympics last summer.
So why do they keep winning? It has to do with balance. As Police Chief John J. Moslow puts it, "We're big enough to serve you and small enough to know you." With a population of 116,500, the police force manages that with 151 sworn officers, who no doubt aim to see the city stays on top of the rankings.
To see how your area crime rate compares to Amherst, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Mission Viejo, California
Here's a recipe for success: a carefully planned town, local residents who are active in the community and a police force with means. That's what's been cooking in Mission Viejo, California, since 1988, when the city was first incorporated. Situated about an hour south of L.A., this is a commuter town, one set in the rolling hills of Orange County with gas stations so well landscaped, you can scoot by them without a second glance. "If I didn't know they were there, I swear I'd miss them," says Lt. Stan Jacquot, chief of police, with a laugh.
With its 26 schools and 98, 500 residents, Mission Viejo has a surprisingly low murder rate. "We've had three this year, and each of those were domestic cases," Jacquot says. "So while it looks like we've had a three hundred percent increase, the streets are in no way more dangerous than they were before." He says most of their crimes come from action stirred up at the newly renovated upscale mall: shoplifting, a few fights and the occasional purse snatching. But these "minor crimes" are quickly dealt with. And if the need for major force is required, Mission Viejo is covered. While the in-town force numbers only 60, the city has a hefty contract with the Orange County sheriff's department, putting scores of officers, equipment and vehicles at the chief's disposal.
The police security blanket serves Mission Viejo well, but Jacquot gives credit to the community. "Parents are involved in everything here—everything. From little league to swimming races, they are there," he says. "And I am always impressed with how many people turn out to run for city council." Why the passion? Maybe its because no one wants to see the dream they built fade.
To see how your area crime rate compares to Mission Viejo, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Brick Township, New Jersey
It's amazing to think how a landscape can change in a relatively short amount of time. Take Brick Township, New Jersey, for instance. Up until 1973, state police officers patrolled the mostly wooded area that wrapped around more than 50 miles of waterfront. An hour and a half from New York, Brick Township was a hidden jewel, prime for development. The build-up inevitably came, mainly in the form of retirement communities, single-family homes and moderate suburban sprawl. According to Scott MacFadden, the township administrator, 96 percent of the town's 76,000 population is residential, the rest retail.
The police force has grown to 116 and the presence is very visible, as officers patrol the area's winding roads by car. Which brings up a point: Brick Township's layout might contribute to its low crime rate. After all, it's hard to make a quick getaway when you've got to find your way around a bay, a river and countless lagoons. Says the good-natured MacFadden, who only started locking his front door a few years ago, "You're more likely to get bit by a dog here than mugged by a man."
To see how your area crime rate compares to Brick Township, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Newton, Massachusetts
So what are the signs of a safe city? Surely there are the outward clues: cozy neighborhoods, people strolling on the sidewalks and families gathering in the parks, while police patrol unobtrusively. And then there are the numbers—crime rate statistics. But beyond that, a good look at the local police blotter will tell the tale. If the crimes are small-time affairs the local police can handle, from domestic squabbles to shoplifting and the like, that city's sitting pretty.
Such is the case with Newton, Massachusetts. Home to Boston College, the upper middle class city is only eight miles from Boston, and truly lives up to the PR: It actually does offer the best of small town living with the amenities of a big city nearby. Divided into 13 picturesque, if not entirely discernible villages, Newton's neighborhoods are brimming with active community associations for its 85,000 residents. Just how active are the residents? According to Lt. Paul Anastasia, there is a city ordinance to take out and bring in your trash barrels by a certain times. "If those cans are out during the wrong times, we get calls," he says, "and we respond. We're a service-based police force and that's the quality level our residents demand."
And how about that police blotter? One recent write-up included a woman who had been accused of biting her husband, and a thief nabbed while riding a stolen bike. Somehow these incidents seem like nothing the Newton police department can't handle.
To see how your area crime rate compares to Newton, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Simi Valley, California
Simi Valley has got its bases covered when it comes to crime-related programs. To name a few, the city of 111,500 has a community gang task force, an extensive neighborhood watch program and an innovative environmental design program meant to thwart crimes. Add to that a "zero tolerance approach to crime" mandated by Mayor Bill Davis and there is no mistake that criminals are unwelcome here.
But don't think Simi Valley is all business. There are holiday block parties, ghost tours at Halloween, trails to be hiked and golf courses to conquer. It's home to the Ronald Reagan Library and has more equestrian trails than any other place in the U.S. Situated just outside Los Angeles and next to Ventura, its residents can milk all those locales have to offer, without the smog or congestion.
And don't think its police chief is ready to compromise any of Simi Valley's selling points. "We maintain the attitude that even one crime is unacceptable," says Police Chief Randy G. Adams, "and we are committed to maintaining the high level of customer service our community has grown to expect."
To see how your area crime rate compares to Simi Valley, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Top Five Safest Cities
Check out the safest places in America
By Melissa Bigner
Homestore.com Contributor
Headlines being as they are these days, no one would blame you if you thought of relocating to a town that was a little less bustling than the big city. If safety—everyday public safety—is your priority, we've got some leads for you. Each year the Kansas-based Morgan Quitno Press analyzes crime data submitted to the FBI by city and metropolitan governments representing up to 75,000 residents. The group looks at the number of murders, rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, burglaries and motor vehicle thefts to create their list. Here's a closer look at the top five safest cities in America, based on the latest rankings.
Amherst, New York
You got to love a winner, and Amherst is just that. "This marks the third time in four years that Amherst has earned the number one ranking in our annual Safest Cities competition," says Scott Morgan, President of Morgan Quitno. "With no murders, the fourth lowest rape rate, the tenth lowest robbery rate and the fifth lowest aggravated assault rate, Amherst has one of the lowest violent crime rates of any city."
A suburb of Buffalo, the upscale community is anchored by the University of Buffalo and known for its green spaces, golf courses and gorgeous homes. Close to Niagara Falls, this ideal community hosts ice skating camps in the winter and was the site of the 2001 Special Olympics last summer.
So why do they keep winning? It has to do with balance. As Police Chief John J. Moslow puts it, "We're big enough to serve you and small enough to know you." With a population of 116,500, the police force manages that with 151 sworn officers, who no doubt aim to see the city stays on top of the rankings.
To see how your area crime rate compares to Amherst, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Mission Viejo, California
Here's a recipe for success: a carefully planned town, local residents who are active in the community and a police force with means. That's what's been cooking in Mission Viejo, California, since 1988, when the city was first incorporated. Situated about an hour south of L.A., this is a commuter town, one set in the rolling hills of Orange County with gas stations so well landscaped, you can scoot by them without a second glance. "If I didn't know they were there, I swear I'd miss them," says Lt. Stan Jacquot, chief of police, with a laugh.
With its 26 schools and 98, 500 residents, Mission Viejo has a surprisingly low murder rate. "We've had three this year, and each of those were domestic cases," Jacquot says. "So while it looks like we've had a three hundred percent increase, the streets are in no way more dangerous than they were before." He says most of their crimes come from action stirred up at the newly renovated upscale mall: shoplifting, a few fights and the occasional purse snatching. But these "minor crimes" are quickly dealt with. And if the need for major force is required, Mission Viejo is covered. While the in-town force numbers only 60, the city has a hefty contract with the Orange County sheriff's department, putting scores of officers, equipment and vehicles at the chief's disposal.
The police security blanket serves Mission Viejo well, but Jacquot gives credit to the community. "Parents are involved in everything here—everything. From little league to swimming races, they are there," he says. "And I am always impressed with how many people turn out to run for city council." Why the passion? Maybe its because no one wants to see the dream they built fade.
To see how your area crime rate compares to Mission Viejo, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Brick Township, New Jersey
It's amazing to think how a landscape can change in a relatively short amount of time. Take Brick Township, New Jersey, for instance. Up until 1973, state police officers patrolled the mostly wooded area that wrapped around more than 50 miles of waterfront. An hour and a half from New York, Brick Township was a hidden jewel, prime for development. The build-up inevitably came, mainly in the form of retirement communities, single-family homes and moderate suburban sprawl. According to Scott MacFadden, the township administrator, 96 percent of the town's 76,000 population is residential, the rest retail.
The police force has grown to 116 and the presence is very visible, as officers patrol the area's winding roads by car. Which brings up a point: Brick Township's layout might contribute to its low crime rate. After all, it's hard to make a quick getaway when you've got to find your way around a bay, a river and countless lagoons. Says the good-natured MacFadden, who only started locking his front door a few years ago, "You're more likely to get bit by a dog here than mugged by a man."
To see how your area crime rate compares to Brick Township, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Newton, Massachusetts
So what are the signs of a safe city? Surely there are the outward clues: cozy neighborhoods, people strolling on the sidewalks and families gathering in the parks, while police patrol unobtrusively. And then there are the numbers—crime rate statistics. But beyond that, a good look at the local police blotter will tell the tale. If the crimes are small-time affairs the local police can handle, from domestic squabbles to shoplifting and the like, that city's sitting pretty.
Such is the case with Newton, Massachusetts. Home to Boston College, the upper middle class city is only eight miles from Boston, and truly lives up to the PR: It actually does offer the best of small town living with the amenities of a big city nearby. Divided into 13 picturesque, if not entirely discernible villages, Newton's neighborhoods are brimming with active community associations for its 85,000 residents. Just how active are the residents? According to Lt. Paul Anastasia, there is a city ordinance to take out and bring in your trash barrels by a certain times. "If those cans are out during the wrong times, we get calls," he says, "and we respond. We're a service-based police force and that's the quality level our residents demand."
And how about that police blotter? One recent write-up included a woman who had been accused of biting her husband, and a thief nabbed while riding a stolen bike. Somehow these incidents seem like nothing the Newton police department can't handle.
To see how your area crime rate compares to Newton, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).
Simi Valley, California
Simi Valley has got its bases covered when it comes to crime-related programs. To name a few, the city of 111,500 has a community gang task force, an extensive neighborhood watch program and an innovative environmental design program meant to thwart crimes. Add to that a "zero tolerance approach to crime" mandated by Mayor Bill Davis and there is no mistake that criminals are unwelcome here.
But don't think Simi Valley is all business. There are holiday block parties, ghost tours at Halloween, trails to be hiked and golf courses to conquer. It's home to the Ronald Reagan Library and has more equestrian trails than any other place in the U.S. Situated just outside Los Angeles and next to Ventura, its residents can milk all those locales have to offer, without the smog or congestion.
And don't think its police chief is ready to compromise any of Simi Valley's selling points. "We maintain the attitude that even one crime is unacceptable," says Police Chief Randy G. Adams, "and we are committed to maintaining the high level of customer service our community has grown to expect."
To see how your area crime rate compares to Simi Valley, click here for the crime calculator(http://personalfinance.aol.homestore.com/Moving/Tools/CrimeLab.asp).