Formal Statement on Increased Crime and Emergency Response in the Waldo Neighborhood
- Administrator
- Apr 26
- 3 min read
April 26, 2025 - Kansas City, Missouri
As President of the Waldo Tower Neighborhood Association, I want to address the growing concerns from residents and business owners regarding the recent surge in crime and the challenges with emergency response times in our community.
Rising Crime in Waldo
Over the past year, Waldo has experienced a significant increase in property crimes, including car break-ins, auto thefts, business burglaries, and, more recently, incidents that have escalated to violence. Multiple homes and vehicles have sustained damage from gunfire during attempted thefts, leaving residents shaken but grateful that no one has been physically harmed. Business owners have reported a troubling pattern of armed teenagers targeting vehicles and threatening customers, and some have witnessed these incidents occurring in broad daylight. This trend is reflected citywide, with property crimes in Kansas City up 31% since 2019 and car thefts rising by 138% over the same period.
Impact on Businesses
Local businesses, already facing challenges from construction and economic pressures, have been hit hard by this crime wave. Break-ins, vandalism, and threats to staff and customers have eroded the sense of safety and community that defines Waldo. In response, business owners are working together to install security cameras, improve lighting, and share information in real time to prevent further incidents. The Waldo Area Business Association has publicly called for more support and resources to help businesses recover and protect themselves, welcoming the city’s new “Back to Business Fund,” which offers grants for security upgrades and repairs following property crimes.
Emergency Response Times
Residents and business owners have expressed deep frustration with delayed police response to 911 calls, especially for property crimes. Due to ongoing staffing shortages in the Kansas City Police Department — a result of retirements, recruitment challenges, and increased call volume — officers may be dispatched from distant parts of the city, causing longer wait times for critical incidents.
In recent cases, residents reported waiting significant periods for police to arrive after violent events, further undermining confidence in public safety services.
Community and Official Response
The Waldo Tower Neighborhood Association stands in solidarity with our neighbors and local businesses. We are actively collaborating with the Waldo Area Business Association, law enforcement, and city officials to advocate for:
Increased police presence and dedicated resources for the Waldo area, including more detectives focused on property crimes.
Continued investment in crime prevention measures, such as security grants and neighborhood watch programs.
Improved emergency response protocols and communication to ensure timely assistance for all residents and businesses.
Long-term solutions addressing the root causes of crime, including youth engagement, mental health resources, and support for unhoused individuals.
Demand for Immediate Action and Accountability
While we are committed to collaboration, we must also demand accountability and measurable progress. We call on the Kansas City Police Department, City Council, and all relevant agencies to provide a clear and public timeline for the following:
Deployment of additional patrol units and detectives in the Waldo area within the next 60 days.
Implementation of improved emergency response protocols and a reduction in 911 response times, with monthly progress updates to the community.
Allocation of additional funding for security improvements for both residents and businesses, with grant application processes streamlined and communicated within the next 30 days.
Regular public safety meetings with city officials and law enforcement, beginning within the next month, to review progress, share data, and address community concerns directly.
We will hold our city leaders and law enforcement partners accountable to these commitments and expect transparent, timely updates. Our neighborhood cannot afford to wait any longer for meaningful change; we need swift, decisive action to restore safety and trust.
Conclusion
Waldo is a resilient and caring community. While these challenges are serious, we are committed to working together — with law enforcement, city leaders, and each other — to restore safety and peace of mind for everyone who lives, works, and visits here.
Thank you for your continued engagement and support.
Signed, Angie Lile
President, Waldo Tower Neighborhood Association
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