As security increases, occupancy rises at Youngstown public housing

YOUNGSTOWN — The director of the Youngstown Metropolitan Housing Authority is taking a no-nonsense approach to safety and security in the authority’s housing communities, and he cites increased occupancy as evidence that his approach is paying off.

“For me, it’s a no-brainer,” said Clifford Scott, who has been YMHA executive director since May 2008.

“If I know that my family’s safe, then my quality of life is going to improve. I’m going to take ownership in that development where I live.

“If you’re safe, the chances of your improving your life are much greater,” he said. “We have a responsibility to our residents and the people that we serve.”

A year ago, Scott and Youngstown and Campbell police announced a partnership to put extra police patrols, for which YMHA was to pay $155,000 from federal funds, in Westlake Terrace, Rockford Village, Victory Estates and the Brier Hill Annex in Youngstown and the Kirwan Homes in Campbell.

Scott said he intends to renew those patrols after that money is spent.

Youngstown Police Chief Jimmy Hughes rated the patrols as “very effective,” saying police have made numerous contacts with YMHA residents and with “undesirable individuals,” resulting in deterrence of criminal activity in the housing projects.

For the complete story, see Sunday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com