Hyde answered questions and discussed dealing with problems with Section 8 rentals, youth intervention, crime and traffic.
Another community outreach tool is the Police Department Web site, which provides information on community policing services, crime statistics, crime prevention tips, at-risk youth programs, contact information, job opportunities, animal control services, calendar, juvenile curfew ordinance, operation thumbprint, recruitment videos, RV permits, the SWAT team, the volunteer academy and ride-along information.
Also featured on the Web site is the newly created Community Action Team, which is comprised of a sergeant, corporal and two officers dedicated to dealing with quality of life issues such as trashy yards, broken down cars and excessive noise.
The unit works closely with the Contra Costa Housing Authority, the Antioch Neighborhood Improvement Services, Antioch Code Enforcement and neighboring law enforcement agencies. It also handles problem residences, commercial areas and homeless issues within the city.
Hyde encourages residents to check the Web site on a regular basis. His goal is to ensure that it remains a useful and up-to-date resource for all Antioch residents and visitors.
"I think for a community this size to see a police chief come out is invaluable," said Lee Haynes, one of those at the coffee klatch.
"There needs to be a better way to reach people," said Alicia Coleman Clerk, "and I think making himself available like that is awesome."
"He is the greatest thing to come here," said John Bacher. "It says something when a police chief goes out to connect with the community."
The two-hour meeting was more than Hyde expected. He was pleased with the turnout, he said, adding that he looks forward to meeting with the community again and likes the advice from a resident that he distribute informational handouts at the next meeting.
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