During a recent government meeting, community members expressed their concerns regarding gun violence and public safety in Spokane. One resident highlighted a personal sense of insecurity while walking downtown, stating that they felt more threatened by the possibility of being stabbed than shot. Drawing from experiences in Los Angeles, they emphasized that while gun violence is a significant issue, there are other pressing matters that require attention, particularly the rising prevalence of Fentanyl in the area.

The resident questioned the necessity of introducing new gun ordinances, pointing out that existing laws already address many concerns. They urged local officials to shift their focus towards tackling the Fentanyl crisis, which they believe poses a greater danger to public safety.

Another participant in the meeting suggested that the city should implement measures to monitor large ammunition purchases, arguing that ammunition is a critical factor in gun-related incidents. They recounted a story about a friend who felt compelled to buy a firearm for protection due to repeated threats from gang members, but faced restrictions on ammunition purchases, which left her feeling uneasy.

The discussions reflect a broader community sentiment that while gun violence is a concern, there are other urgent issues, such as drug-related dangers, that warrant immediate attention from local authorities.