by Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
The Mascotte Police Department (MPD) hosted a “Coffee with a Cop” community interaction event on Friday, May 30th at the Rainbow Restaurant, 704 East Myers Boulevard, Mascotte.
The Coffee with a Cop program is designed and recognized nationwide as a positive means for law enforcement to interact with citizens of the community in a positive way and on neutral grounds that are comfortable for everyone. Mascotte police officers were present to answer questions regarding public safety issues in the city and inform the public of upcoming plans for both the police department and the community.
Some of the highlights of the conversation included plans for the police department’s accreditation completion in October. Chief Eric Pederson announced that the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA) is currently evaluating the department and hopes to have a final review completed by this October. The CFA was formed in 1993 and is recognized as the premier state law enforcement accreditation program in the United States. The program is comprised of four police chiefs, four sheriffs, and one representative from the State Law Enforcement Chiefs Association, the Association of Counties, the Florida League of Cities, the Florida Supreme Court, and the Inspector General’s Office. The Commission meets three times a year to officially accredit agencies that have passed the rigorous review process.
Chief Pederson also announced that the Mascotte City Council will soon be discussing a conceptual design plan to enlarge the city’s current police station. The structure that currently serves 20 sworn police officers, plus civilian personnel, is simply no longer large enough to adequately serve the needs of both the staff and the citizens of Mascotte, according to Chief Pederson. “We are looking at a 30-year plan that would include future growth needs and a capital plan of 20 additional police officers in the coming years. Whether the police station will stay at its present location with additional space added, or a new building in a different location is yet to be seen,” says Chief Pederson.
Officer Kenia Abreu-Hughey updated attendees with the following upcoming event dates:
- June 21st – the City of Mascotte’s Centennial Celebration continues with a day of fun at the Mascotte Civic Center, 121 North Sunset Avenue, from 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm. A car show, vendors, and family entertainment that includes family bingo and music.
- June29th – a free Internet Safety Class hosted by the police department and open to the public. The informative class will equip participants with practical tools and knowledge to help keep their family safe while recognizing online threats. The class will be held at the Mascotte Civic Center, 121 North Sunset Avenue, from 10:00 am – 2 pm. For more information, contact Lt. Chris Villifane at 352-429-3393.
- July 26th – The annual backpack and school supply giveaway will take place at Mascotte Charter School, 460 Midway Avenue. Mark your calendars as more information, including times, will be made available soon. Contact Ofc. Hughey at 352-429-3393 for more information and sponsorship opportunities.
- October 4th -. The annual “Cruiser for the Cause” event in partnership with the Greater Clermont Cancer Foundation will be held at the Mascotte Police Station, 529 East Myers Boulevard. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the MPD will be hosting the annual fundraising event from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm in the police station parking lot. The department will also be bringing awareness to the community with their traditional Pink Police Cruiser as it patrols the streets of Mascotte.
Please visit www.CityofMascotte.com for additional information regarding upcoming events and safety related news.
