During a recent city council meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding local issues, particularly litter enforcement and youth engagement in the Uptown area.

One speaker highlighted the ongoing litter problem in the city, emphasizing the need for a more equitable approach to waste management. They criticized the selective enforcement of litter ordinances, particularly in relation to a memorial for Palestinian lives, arguing that its removal sends a harmful message to the Palestinian community and undermines the dignity of those affected by ongoing conflicts. The speaker called for a collective responsibility among council members to ensure that all community members are treated with respect and urged for a permanent ceasefire and support for divestment from conflict zones.

Another resident, Jamal Carter, raised concerns about the lack of recreational facilities for teenagers in the Uptown area. He pointed out that while other neighborhoods have access to youth programs and safe spaces, Uptown is lacking in resources, which he believes contributes to rising violence and a lack of guidance for young people. Carter urged the council to prioritize the development of community-oriented programs to provide safe spaces for youth engagement.

The meeting underscored the urgent need for city officials to address these pressing community issues, as residents seek solutions to improve both environmental stewardship and youth opportunities in Harrisburg.