Summer is finally here. It is time to enjoy all that Madison and the Northside have to offer.

In the warm summer months, we are more likely to leave windows and garage doors open and not lock our doors, which increases the chance of being a victim of a crime. It is also important that we watch over each other and call the police when you see suspicious people or activity.

The biggest issue we are dealing with is the shots being fired in our neighborhoods. We have made a number of arrests, taken preventive actions and put more resources toward this issue, but incidents continue to occur. We really need residents to call us when a house or apartment becomes “active.” Please do not wait until a shots-fired call occurs before letting us know about a problem address. This will continue to be our number one priority.

If you have not heard, I have been assigned to the new Midtown Police District starting June 3, so this will be my last column. It has been an honor and privilege serving you over the last four and a half years, and I will miss all the residents I have met and worked with. The Northside is a great place to work because of the loyalty, interest, hard work and care residents have for the area in which they live. I will miss that.

Captain Brian Ackeret will be the new commander of the North Police District. He worked here as the Patrol Lieutenant a few years back. You will be in good hands. You can reach him at backeret@cityofmadison.com or 245-3652.

Have a fun and safe summer.