New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker said he is open to the idea of meeting with nearby business owners in the coming weeks.
NEW HAVEN, Conn. — Dozens of residents and business leaders gathered in Fairhaven Tuesday night to voice concerns that a lack of safety is hurting businesses in the area.
Some residents who gathered at the corner of Blatchley and Grand streets say they feel forgotten.
“The city has forgotten us because we have no protection,” said Alberto Bustos, a local business owner.
Related: What are the signs of a developing store robbery?South Windsor police explain
Residents said crime and drug use were spiraling out of control.
“People keep shooting drugs in front of my house,” said John Lugo, who organized Tuesday's rally.
“A man came into the building with a gun. He appeared to be brandishing a gun and taking merchandise and putting it in his pocket,” Lugo said.
Lugo said crime and drugs are taking a toll on small business owners because potential customers don't feel safe.
“They're losing customers all the time. They're moving away from Fairhaven, and I think that's enough for the city to start paying attention,” Lugo said.
Sign up for the FOX61 Newsletter: Morning Forecast, Morning Headlines, Evening Headlines
One of the group's main concerns is New Haven police response times.
“I called the police and they showed up about 30 minutes later,” Lugo said. “If a situation like that happened in Worcester Square or East Rock, you know the police would take immediate action.”
Grand Avenue business owners said they raised their concerns with city council members but were told if they wanted additional patrols or security they would have to pay out of pocket.
“We tried to go to the city or alderman about this area, and he suggested we pay the police to come here,” Bastos said.
RELATED: Scammers target families of Connecticut college athletes
New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker said the city has done a lot to combat crime in the city, but there's still a lot more that can be done.
“Our officers have worked hard over time and have installed numerous cameras throughout the city, including Fairhaven, to help bring those involved in this violent crime to justice.” he said. Elicker.
Ecker said that while ensuring safety in the city is a top priority, safety in the area is also important to him personally.
“My two daughters go to school in Fairhaven on Grand Avenue, which is important to me as mayor, plus making sure everyone in the city feels safe.” That's important to me personally,” Elicker said.
Ecker said he is open to the idea of meeting with nearby business owners in the coming weeks.
Jake Garcia is a multimedia journalist at FOX61 News. You can contact him at: jgarcia@fox61.com.follow him Facebook, twitterand Instagram.
Do you have a story idea or something you'd like to share? We want to hear from you!Please email us at newstips@fox61.com.
Here's more ways to get FOX61 news
Download the FOX61 News App
iTunes: Click here to download
Google play: Click here to download
Live streaming Roku: Add channels from the ROKU store or by searching for FOX61.
steam live on Fire TV: Search for “FOX61” and click “Get” to download.
follow me X, Facebook & Instagram