Sgt. Rodger Ollis recognized for excellent service
By Lauren Parker- Gill, News Editor, The Times
Community roundtable was held last week with CASD administrators, Coatesville Police Department and local politicians.
COATESVILLE – A community roundtable was held at Abdala Park in Coatesville with members of church communities, the Coatesville Police Department, the Coatesville Area School District, District Justice Gregory Hines, Senator Andy Dinniman, Josh Maxwell and city residents over the weekend, where issues such as community policing, public safety and academic goals were discussed.
In what was designed as an anonymous Q & A format where residents submitted questions beforehand, one of the first questions from a community member was directed for the police officers. In attendance for the Coatesville Police Department were Lieutenant James Audette and Sergeant Rodger Ollis.
Question: “What measures are being taken to improve community relations?”
Audette responded by stating that with the addition of body cameras and more street cameras, which provide transparency between the public and the police, officers are encouraged to conduct business checks while on patrol so they can get to know the business owners and have conversations with them as well as community members.
Ollis added that with the shift in policing strategy from law enforcement to community policing, the department intends to be more relational with community members through outreach efforts to build trust and open the lines of communication with the public.
Question: “Is there a correlation between absenteeism in high school and being in court?’
Judge Hines responded by saying he believes truancy is an issue with getting jobs and recommended parents get their children involved in clubs, sports and activities to keep them busy and keep them in school.
Senator Andy Dinniman answered questions and spoke about his intentions to bring more jobs to the city.
Superintendent Dr. Cathy Taschner added that children are tending to become disengaged at earlier ages, which is why the district began a Head Start preschool program with the Chester County Intermediate Unit this school year. Taschner said that the program being held at the Gordon Early Literacy Center is one of the first in the county and surrounding areas and will offer before and after school care and parent training classes.
Question: “How are you working to reduce violence in the community?”
Ollis said the police department tries to be active participants in the community and works to support and form partnerships with organizations that focus on the best interest of the community and youth.
Question: “Why do you care about Coatesville?”
Maxwell stated he cares about Coatesville because he cares about breaking down communication barriers and solving social economic problems.
Dinniman added that he wants to bring more jobs to Coatesville and to proceed with the revitalization in the city.
“The money is there, we just need to get PennDOT to move.” Dinniman said.
At the conclusion of the roundtable Q & A, Laurie Shannon- Bailey of the Coatesville Downtown Rotary Club presented Ollis with an award for his outstanding service and involvement in the community.
Pastor Sharlene Fullwood of Jubilee Evangelistic Ministries also presented Ollis with a certificate of appreciation for his involvement and service in the Coatesville community.
When asked how he felt about receiving the awards, Ollis, who always remains humble and shies away from formal recognition said, “I’m just one piece of the puzzle.”
Pastor Sharlene Fullwood of Jubilee Evangelistic Ministries presented Sgt. Rodger Ollis with a certificate of appreciation for his service in the community.
