The Meridian Housing Authority and the Meridian Police Department want 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, MHA and MPD have partnered to implement the HUD approved “Officer Next Door” program. The program is designed to create safer neighborhoods by allowing MHA to lease units to Meridian Police Officers.
This collaborative effort will begin in Western Gardens. Police officers will be permitted to lease an apartment for a twelve month period at no cost to the certified police officer. The MPD will ensure that the officers involved in the “Officer Next Door” 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 will ensure that all participants of the “OND” program are familiar with the lease agreement. The officer must also reside in the apartment as their primary source of residency during the twelve month leasing period. For more information regarding the “OND” program, contact Asset Management Coordinator, Trevelle McGlothin at (601) 693-4285.
