Residents demand action on police response and neighborhood safety

During a recent city council meeting in Paramount, residents voiced concerns regarding public safety, neighborhood representation, and local governance issues. A resident highlighted a troubling incident where police response was delayed by four hours, leaving an unconscious individual unattended. This prompted a commitment from the council to investigate the specific incident further.

Another speaker, John Paul Dreyer, shared his personal connection to the community and emphasized the need for equitable representation and safety measures across all neighborhoods. He advocated for traffic calming measures, such as traffic circles, to be implemented in underprivileged areas, arguing that all neighborhoods deserve equal attention and resources.

Additionally, Mike Gradus raised alarms about an illegal hazardous waste facility operating near homes and schools, urging the council to enforce municipal codes to protect community health. Another resident, Sophia Partita, expressed opposition to a proposal regarding cemetery district boundaries, advocating for more community involvement in the decision-making process.

Council members responded to these concerns, discussing ongoing traffic studies aimed at determining the best safety measures for neighborhoods, particularly those near schools. They also clarified that the recent discussions about cemetery district mapping were not a rejection but a call for further review.

The meeting underscored the community's desire for improved safety, representation, and accountability from local authorities, reflecting broader themes of civic engagement and the need for equitable resource distribution in Paramount.