Hogle talks town issues with Village residents

The good news: Crimes against persons remain low on Longboat Key.

The bad news: According to Longboat Key Police Chief Al Hogle, “crimes of opportunity” such as burglaries of unlocked homes and vehicles, continue to occur on the island.

Hogle encouraged residents to be vigilant at the May 5 Longbeach Village Association, which was the group’s final gathering for the 2009-10 season, and updated residents on Key issues.

Hogle said the town could implement a license plate recognition system that could be used as a mass surveillance system to combat crime.

“Probably the best thing about it … is the deterrent factor,” Hogle said. “We think it would be a great tool.”

Hogle also spoke to residents about offshore mooring. In the past, Hogle said, the town had an ordinance that prevented boaters from anchoring in one spot for more than 72 hours. But last year, a new state law was passed that essentially “outlawed our laws.” He said Town Attorney David Persson has worked with Sarasota County’s attorney on how to address the issue.

Village residents also discussed ongoing peacock removal efforts. According to Village Association President Michael Drake, at least 11 peacocks have been removed from the Village.

Contact Robin Hartill at [email protected].