Recognizing NE Phila Connected, a community based non-profit organization, for piloting a catalytic convertor theft prevention program in Northeast Philadelphia.

WHEREAS, NE Phila Connected (NEPC) is a town watch and community outreach organization based in Northeast Philadelphia; and

WHEREAS, The non-profit organization began in the summer of 2020 with 30 members and now has over 500 volunteers assisting in community patrols and outreach events; and

WHEREAS, Most recently, the organization is pitching a “cat cut” program designed to reverse the troubling trend of catalytic converter theft; and

WHEREAS, The exhaust emissions control device is an easy target for thieves, which contain precious metals and require just a few minutes to remove; and

WHEREAS, Police departments around the nation have warned of the increase in thefts since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, The part can cost well over $2,000 to replace; and

WHEREAS, To reverse this trend and protect the community, NEPC’s “cat cut” initiative would help residents engrave catalytic convertors with their vehicle’s VIN number, coat the device in a specific paint, and provide a decal to be placed on the window to let potential thieves know the part is trackable; and

WHEREAS, This initiative would also assist junk yards and auto shops in identifying stolen parts; and

WHEREAS, Residents would have the engraving and painting completed for a modest fee of forty dollars at five participating auto shops in the Northeast: Rhawn Automotive, R&R Car Repair Service, G&I Repair, Prestige Auto Service, and Next Level Automotive Service Inc.; and

WHEREAS, For twenty dollars, NEPC would provide the tools to complete the work “DIY”; and

WHEREAS, Creative initiatives like the “cat cut” program, and organic community organizations like NEPC, should be recognized and encouraged to continue their work in making our City safer and more united; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it herby recognizes NE Phila Connected, a community based non-profit organization, for piloting a catalytic convertor theft prevention program in Northeast Philadelphia.

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