Neighbors urge Salem council to establish protective zone around downtown Safeway

Concerns over safety and community support took center stage at the City of Salem Council meeting on May 27, 2025, as residents voiced urgent calls for action to protect a vital grocery store in the downtown area. A local advocate highlighted alarming incidents of violence near the Safeway store, including personal threats and attacks on community members.

The advocate, speaking on behalf of the store manager who was unable to attend, urged the council to consider establishing a protective zone around the grocery store. “We do not want to lose this critical store,” they emphasized, referencing a troubling trend of businesses leaving the downtown core. The advocate noted that while the Salem Police Department had previously increased patrols, that support had ended, leaving the community feeling vulnerable.

The discussion underscored the complex challenges of balancing safety for local businesses and addressing the needs of the unsheltered population in the area. The advocate called for collaboration among community members, local organizations, and the city to find effective solutions. “It’s going to take a significant amount of time,” they warned, but stressed the importance of protecting both the vulnerable and the surrounding community.

The council acknowledged the impact of increased police presence during the previous week, with one member affirming that “presence makes a difference.” As the meeting progressed, the council moved on to approve a consent calendar that included various administrative actions, but the pressing issue of community safety remained a focal point for many attendees. The council's next steps in addressing these concerns will be closely watched by residents eager for solutions.