Community Police Office Opens near 13th & Oliver

Lavonta Williams said Monday that the new police office is the next step in helping enhance the safety of the neighborhood surrounding the refurbished

shopping center.

"Dreams have led to plans and plans led to progress, and progress leads to more progress, and eventually that leads to success," Williams said as the office was officially opened by the Wichita Police Department in a ceremony Monday afternoon.

The office will serve as a work station for community police officer Dan Oblinger, as well as a center for special patrol teams dealing with drug offenses and gang violence, Capt. Jeff Easter said.

Easter said a conference room will also give neighborhood groups a place to hold meetings.

Williams said the new police office in the former KenMar shopping center represents a step toward making the area, which has sometimes been plagued by crime, safer.

"The officers will also serve as role models for the young people in our community," Williams said.

Mayor Carl Brewer told residents from nearby neighborhood associations that the new office is "a prime opportunity to grow your neighborhood."