A number of Opelousas business owners and employees are expected to attend an open meeting tonight hosted by the police department.

It’s a chance for them to voice their concerns after a series of recent burglaries downtown.

Many business owners told KLFY’s Jazmin Thibodeaux police have already stepped up security in the community.

Vera Nagy, owner of Farfallina’s, said she’s noticed officers patrolling more often, “They’re coming every night and that I’m very, very happy and grateful for.”

This is the fourth time Nagy’s shop was burglarized. She hopes to see the patrols continue even after the meeting, “If I don’t get these, if it quits I will call and make a lot of phone calls because this is what we need. This is what makes us feel safer and we know that we’re getting some patrolling.”

Nagy and other business owners said officers are leaving notes every time they come to their door.

They do so to let them know each time an officer patrols the area.

Illea Rice’s salon, Great Expectations, was one of the seven businesses broken into.

She’s grateful to be able to voice her concerns to the police, “Very pleased to hear some concern you know from the chief and our city officials. I know they’re just as concerned as we are.”

Police told KLFY they are looking forward to getting input from business owners and employees.

“It’s not going to be a bash meeting. You know tell us, talk to us. I want to know,” Chief Donald Thompson explained.