Authorizing the US Attorney to Submit an Application - Weed & Seed

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FY 2008 WEED AND SEED COMMUNITIES APPLICATION The population of the proposed area is 12 percent of the city's total population, but more than 26 percent of all adult crimes occurring citywide, including drug and weapons violations, homicides, and arsons occurred within the proposed area (2003-2006). ]uvenile arrests show a similar concentration and indicate disturbing trends, increasing from 2004 to 2006. The proposed Weed & Seed area neighborhoods once housed a variety of socio-economic groups. But since the 1960s, unemployment and poverty has been concentrated there in higher percentages than in the city as a whole. The low educational attainment of the area can contribute to unemployment and crime. Thirty-six percent of all 16-19 year olds are not enrolled in school and 32 percent of those 25 and older have no high school diploma. Poverty perpetuates this cycle: in one elementary school in the proposed area, 86 percent of students qualify for free lunch. Many housing units in the proposed area lack the amenities to attract buyers with the financial means to properly maintain them. Housing abandonment has increased. From 2000 to 2007, the number of vacant and abandoned units in the proposed area increased from 340 to 918. As of June 2007, 14% of all residential units were vacant. Demographics (description of the proposed Weed & Seed community) According to the 2000 Census: • South Bend population: 107,789 o In the proposed Weed & Seed area: • Population: approx. 12,559 (approx. 12% of city total). ^ African American 55%; Caucasian 35%; Some Other Race/Two or More races 9%; Hispanic 9% • South Bend homeownership rate: 63% o In the proposed Weed &.Seed area; • Homeownership rate: 60% Strategy Plan/Design: Law Enforcement/Community Policing The concentration of crime in the proposed area is evidence of growing social disorder. A coordinated strategy has been developed: increased police patrols and presence; random curfew sweeps; aggressive undercover operations targeting illegal activity; and community policing to improve relations between police and the community. Prevention/Intervention/Treatment Creation and expansion of educational, recreational, and cultural opportunities for youth will provide preventative measures addressing some of the key social problems that lead to crime. Assisting residents acquire a high school diploma and providing basic life skills training with support from business will move residents toward improved employment options and self-sufficiency. Neighborhood Restoration A coordinated effort to inform residents of the numerous available housing programs, combined with the City's new Vacant and Abandoned Housing Initiative, and other public F:\DATA\SHARE\DPND\Weed&Seed\2008 Application\2008 Application\Final format for application,doc 2