Burnet Police Department Patrol Officer Myron Hall was named the 2015 Locals Love Us favorite law enforcement officer and city employee for the Burnet area. He said engaging young people to feel comfortable with law enforcement and getting to know the citizens has served him well in carrying out his duties. Staff photo by Cindi Ashford
BURNET — Patrol officer Myron Hall says civil servants should get to know the people in the community on a personal level and engage young people to help them feel comfortable interacting with law enforcement.
Hall, 42, has worked for the Burnet Police Department for nearly a decade. Before that, he worked for the Llano County Sheriff’s Office and the police unit at St. Edwards University in Austin.
He was voted the 2015 Locals Love Us favorite law enforcement officer and city employee for the Burnet area by The Picayune readers and KBEY 103.9 FM Picayune Radio listeners.
Hall’s philosophy about his role as a municipal employee and police officer has guided him in his responsibilities.
“It’s more than just making sure people’s houses are OK and people are safe. Just stopping to say 'hello' goes a long way,” he said. “It’s knowing who lives at these houses, knowing their cars and knowing them by name.
“Not only knowing if things look out of place, but knowing who you work for.”
When he is not at work, Hall, who is an avid gamer, enjoys cookouts and fishing trips with his family.
“We love to entertain,” he said.
Hall sees the community of Burnet as an extended family.
He said one of the most effective ways to get to know the neighbors is National Night Out, during which officers encourage residents to turn on their porch lights and join local law enforcement and first responders at Wallace Riddell Park for a festive and educational event with activities and opportunities to meet those who protect and serve.
“It’s a time to see officers in a different light. They can come out speak to the officers, have a conversation and a time to relax in a positive, not a (service) call-type, setting,” he said.
“A youth may have a different mindset when they see us driving around in our cars or on a traffic stop. (National Night Out) puts it into perspective for the children to see we interact with you,” Hall added. “(Young people) can see we’re human beings, and we can be approached.”
connie@thepicayune.com
