The Meridian Housing Authority (MHA) and the Meridian Police Department (MPD) are striving to make affordable housing neighborhoods safer and remain committed to strengthening all of Meridian’s public housing communities.
National statistics show that public safety is enhanced tremendously when police officers live within the neighborhood. Therefore, both agencies are pleased to report the success of the “Officer Next Door Program” approximately one year after its inception.
The program was created to provide safer neighborhoods by allowing MHA to lease dwelling units to Meridian Police Officers. This collaborative effort began last year in Eastern Gardens, Western Gardens, Frank Berry Courts and the Carousel Place apartments.
Certified police officers are permitted to lease an apartment for a twelve-month period at no cost to the officers. The MPD ensures that officers involved in the program will maintain a high visibility level through active participation in resident association meetings, daily MPD vehicle patrolling and the utilization of other community policing measures authorized by the MPD Police Chief. MHA ensures that all participants are familiar with the special lease agreement. The officers must also reside in the apartment as their primary source of residency during the lease contract period.
For more information regarding the “OND” program, contact Asset Management Coordinator, Trevelle McGlothin at (601) 693-4285.