The newly appointed Clutha community constable started yesterday and believes this will lead to greater use of police in soothing small problems before they become larger issues.
"It's a role that will be more pro-active rather than reactive," Const Taylor said.
An officer with 11 years experience, Const Taylor was keen to take up the new role, which is slowly being introduced nationwide in a move back to more grassroots policing.
One issue that had already been undertaken was a dispute between neighbours about an overhanging hedge.
Const Taylor said trying to resolve that now, rather than letting relations deteriorate between both parties, could mean the difference between peace and harmony and possible police intervention.
"I would rather see things like that sorted out early instead of someone ending up in court.
"That's the idea," Const Taylor said.
He was also keen to meet community groups and work with them to address issues such as tagging, the introduction of community patrols and enforcing the central liquor ban in Balclutha and Milton.
Const Taylor also believed there were several issues specific to each town in the district that could do with his input.
He can be contacted at the Balclutha Police Station on (03) 418-0203.
