During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed several pressing issues, including crime statistics, community safety initiatives, and plans for a new teen center. The meeting was slightly delayed to accommodate National Night Out events, which aim to foster community engagement and safety.

City leaders reported a concerning uptick in violent crime, with five murders occurring within city limits this year, three of which involved individuals under the age of 18. This statistic has prompted discussions on how to better engage and support the youth in the community. In response, officials have allocated $45,000 to establish a teen center aimed at providing a safe space for teenagers aged 13 to 18. The center will offer various programs, including conflict resolution and talent development, to address the needs of this vulnerable demographic.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the launch of a Crime Stoppers initiative, a partnership between the mayor's office and the district attorney's office, designed to encourage anonymous reporting of crime. Officials have placed 40 signs throughout the city to promote this program, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in crime prevention.

Another significant topic was the proposed gun buyback program, which aims to reduce the number of firearms in circulation. The city plans to allocate up to $30,000 from its remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for this initiative, modeled after successful programs in other cities. The program will offer varying compensation for surrendered firearms, with the goal of removing guns from individuals who may not need them.

City officials expressed a commitment to continuous improvement in community safety and crime reduction, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and proactive measures to create a safer environment for all residents.