In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing gun buyback program in Oakland County, which aims to reduce gun violence by incentivizing residents to turn in firearms. The program has garnered attention for its financial implications, with a request for an additional $15,000 to support future events. This funding is intended to cover various expenses, including the purchase of gift cards as incentives for participants who surrender their guns.

Commissioners highlighted the program's success, noting that over 350 guns were collected during the last buyback event, including firearms linked to criminal activity. The average cost per gun turned in is estimated at approximately $107, with varying amounts offered for different types of firearms—$200 for pistols, $100 for rifles, and $50 for long guns. Participants can turn in multiple firearms but will only receive compensation for up to five.

Concerns were raised regarding the transparency of the budget, with calls for a clearer breakdown of how the requested funds will be allocated. While the Oakland County Board of Commissioners has historically been the primary sponsor of these events, officials noted that funding now comes from various sources, including community contributions.

The meeting also touched on the broader impact of the program, with changes noted in the state’s approach to gun destruction, ensuring that surrendered firearms are not resold but properly disposed of. As the discussion progressed, the board moved towards finalizing the fiscal budget for 2025-2027, indicating a commitment to ongoing funding for initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety.