Southeast Rockford Residents talk Crime and Destructive Insects

The Rolling Green Neighborhood association is pairing with Rockford police to reduce crime. It's working. Police report a decrease of auto thefts and vandalism in southeast Rockford. Police are still warning residents about robberies.

Rockford Police Department's Lt. Patrick Hoey said "the M.O. of these criminals is to knock on the door first to see if anyone is home. It's very important in the evening that you keep house well lit."

Residents also voiced concerns about cars speeding down Harrison Avenue, road projects and the impact of the Emerald Ash Borer.

Rockford Street Superintendent and City Forester Mark Stockman said "the ash borer takes no prisoners."

There are 8,000 Ash trees on city parkways, 7,000 Ash trees will eventually be removed because of the insect. That number does not including private residences.

Stockman advised "if they see more than forty-percent loss of the canopy of the tree, they need to consider removal."

The City's Public Works Department is advising residents to seek the help of a professional landscaping company licensed to apply pesticides to affected ash trees.

All residents are encouraged to attend the neighborhood network meetings throughout the city and voice their concerns.