An issue that came up a lot at our kick-off was the ability to submit anonymous tips to the police. We’re happy to report that the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police actually allows you to fill out an anonymous tip form online if you’d like to talk to the police without naming yourself. If you’d rather print a form and mail it, you can do that too.

(Of course, if you have a situation that poses an immediate danger, you should always dial 911 – and 911 callers can remain anonymous, if they choose to.)

Non-emergency situations should dial 311 from a landline, 412-255-2621 from a cell, or use the online 311 form. I’ve personally had a great deal of success with 311 – every issue I’ve reported (from potholes to improperly secured abandoned buildings) has been addressed promptly, and they’ve even followed up with me.

The City can’t address problems in your neighborhood if it doesn’t know about them. Whichever way you choose to do it, be sure to document all your concerns.