It's about time someone took a new approach to crime in Milwaukee. It looks as though police Chief Edward A. Flynn is doing something to turn things around. The new police chief took office on Jan. 7, and has moved quickly to unveil his new plan to combat crime.

A key part of Chief Flynn's new initiative seeks to get cops out of their patrol cars and on the streets with the people they are trying to protect. A foot patrol will try to build relationships with other people who hold a stake in the safety of the area, such as home and business owners. By listening to the needs of the people and their suggestions, the police force hopes to bring about positive change.

The foot patrol will be supported by a more traditional squad car patrol as well as plainclothes cop surveillance. The new approach will target the area from 27th to 35th streets with a special emphasis on the Wells Street area.

This is a great idea, and overdue. A fresh approach is exactly what Milwaukee needs. Police will be talking to people that have a vested interest in the safety of their area. People that spend their time around the crime that police are fighting will surely be able to offer insight into who to watch out for, houses to watch, etc. The multilateral approach to the problem will prevent such details from being overlooked and build a greater trust between citizens and the police.

In addition, police will hold neighborhood meetings to get feedback and encourage neighborhood events to strengthen the community. Holding such events will strengthen the community and bring people closer together. A strong community with citizens that know and support each other may be able to do more than the cops ever could.

Milwaukee has always struggled with crime, and the steps taken up to this point have not made a lot of change. A clear-cut, organized plan gives the city hope in the fact that leaders are taking interest in the issue enough to put the effort into making solutions.

Kudos to Chief Flynn for stepping up and doing what it takes to turn Milwaukee around. It is great to see someone taking action with a fresh approach.