Statement from the Mayor Regarding the Menacing of a City Employee and Public Safety in Lincoln Park
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
This morning, a City employee was menaced while in the City employee parking area at Lincoln Park. This incident is unacceptable and serves as a reminder that the safety of our employees, residents, businesses, and visitors must remain our highest priority.
As Mayor, I want to be clear: criminal behavior, trespassing, loitering where prohibited by law, public lewdness, littering, and the intimidation or threatening of our citizens will not be tolerated. Our parks, neighborhoods, and business districts belong to everyone who uses them responsibly and lawfully.
Effective immediately, the City will increase patrols in and around Lincoln Park and other areas where public safety concerns have been identified. We will continue working closely with our law enforcement officers and other public safety personnel to ensure our laws are enforced consistently and fairly. Private properties displaying "No Trespassing" notices should expect those laws to be enforced.
We also recognize that some individuals struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders. Help and treatment are available, and we encourage those who are willing to seek assistance to do so. At the same time, compassion cannot come at the expense of public safety. Every resident has the right to feel safe in our parks, neighborhoods, and public spaces.
The City is also researching additional ordinances and policies regarding unauthorized encampments to ensure we have effective tools to protect public spaces while complying with all applicable laws.
I was elected to keep our community safe, and I intend to honor that commitment. I will continue to support the men and women on the front lines who serve our community every day, often under difficult and dangerous circumstances. They deserve our gratitude, our respect, and our full support.
To those who choose to commit crimes or intimidate our residents, know this: the City will enforce its laws, protect its employees, and stand firmly on the side of public safety.
Together, we will continue working to ensure our community remains a safe, welcoming place for families, businesses, and visitors.
Office of the Mayor
City of Olean Municipal Building
101 E. State Street, Olean, NY 14760
(716) 376-5615
