Troubled by recent reports of thefts from parked cars in the neighborhood, Ward 7 City Council candidate Charles “CJ” Donovan announced yesterday he would reinstitute Ward Seven Neighborhood Forums beginning next month.

Donovan, who held the forums as an elected councilman, said he would extend an open invitation to city department directors to attend the event planned for July 12 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Police Community room in police headquarters. He said a police representative has agreed to attend.

Donovan said the forum would allow residents the opportunity to ask questions of their local officials and share ideas with neighbors on the day-to-day issues they are concerned with.

“This is an effective tool that allows for open communication between all stakeholders on important neighborhood matters,” said Donovan.

Donovan said forums would be scheduled in the near future for Arnolds Neck, Apponaug, Nausauket and Cowesett neighborhoods.

Anyone interested in helping out is asked to contact C.J. Donovan at cdonovanjr@

gmail.com or 487-1880.

Donovan lost the Democratic nomination for Ward 7 in a closely contested 2014 primary. Now that incumbent Kathleen Usler has chosen not to seek reelection, he is running to recapture his former seat.