Ford Heights doesn't have a police department? (Chicago, Chicago Heights: section 8, how much)

[j33]

The Ford Heights Police Department has stopped doing police work after running out of officers.

Apparently $12 an hour isn't enough incentive to serve as the law in the downtrodden village. "A lot of them found jobs elsewhere," said Trustee Jimmy Viverette.

Ya think?

I've driven through Ford Heights on many occasions, but it has been at least 15 years since I've been down that way, but it seems like not much has changed. Reading this made me depressed. How do we let places like this slide so far downhill?

[simple1171]

I just read the article via internet from The New York Times regarding East Chicago Heights, which has now become Ford Heights. It just really touched my heart and had me on the brink of tears (yes i am a male and i cry) to hear of how this suburb has slipped under the radar so to speak. But what really touched me was what their income per capita was and how much their police force (which is of four) make annually. Myself, i live in the Englewood area of Chicago, (which often is the subject of the local news) which is also not a great place to reside and/or raise a family. On the verge of moving out soon though, but that would not stop me from coming back and helping out in whatever why possible to help left up our young men and women there. Thats what Ford Heights needs, some national attention or at least some press coverage, and investors who are willing to come in and take a chance with this suburb. This city is just like an open, forgotten about field; But once its cultivated, and seeds are planted and watering takes place; Then up sprouts new growth and life, and this is what Ford Heights need.

[chitown85]

Ford Heights had their police department disbanded last year due to corruption and mismanagement. Their chief didn't even show up for work. The Cook County Sheriff's Police now conducts 24 hour patrols of the village. There was a debate as to whether Ford Heights could or should deincorporate as a village and become unincorporated, which is probably still ongoing.

Ford Heights has been a major recipient of Section 8 housing. It is similar to what happened in Dixmoor several years back, but they snapped out of it.

[Chummy Waters]

*blub*

[kurtkeller]

What the town of Ford Heights needs is a Change. A change in local government and the citizens need to take responsibility for their children. I"ve lived here for a few years and I've noticed how no one really cares about how our town looks or operates. Most of the citizens just do what they want to do but they are very respectful when they go to so called "White Neighborhoods" and its truly a shame that you wouldn't want the town that you reside in to be beautiful and respected. I also think that the youth are really horrible-some but not all. They are not being taught moral values and they dont even have goals. Must of them smoke weed and think that everything should be handed to them on a silver platter. The local government is corrupt and even cheated in the April 7th election so more crooks could get elected. This town really needs some help.