(Editor's note: City Council member Tom Rasmussen wrote this letter to the community, with a copy to the Ballard News-Tribune, in response to recent concern about crime in downtown Ballard parks.)

Dear Ballard Community,

Recently I met with members of the Ballard community about increased illegal activity in and around Ballard Commons Park, Bergen Place Park and Marvin’s Garden. They requested my assistance and I wanted to provide you with an update of what has happened since that meeting. 

I contacted the Department of Parks and Recreation to request them to follow through on earlier commitments made to the community to improve lighting at the parks. Shortly thereafter, the department sent a crew to Ballard and they have assured me that their lights have been repaired and are now in working order.

They are also coordinating with Seattle City Light to upgrade the lighting to brighten the area and discourage crime that has been happening in the darker portions of the parks.  

Also, parks and the Seattle Police Department will host a meeting to continue  discussions with you about safety and security issues. The meeting will be held on  Thursday, Aug. 6, from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Ballard Branch Library, 5614 22nd Ave. NW.  

I will do all I can to ensure that Ballard’s parks are safe, and attractive places for you to enjoy. Please feel free to call or write me if I may be of further assistance. 

Sincerely, 

Seattle City Councilmember Tom Rasmussen
Chair, Parks and Seattle Center Committee
tom.rasmussen@seattle.gov