Norristown residents urge council to release funds for youth anti-violence programs

NORRISTOWN — Several residents and community leaders urged the Norristown Borough Council on Dec. 16 to release funds the municipal administration has earmarked for youth anti-violence programs, saying local faith groups and nonprofits are prepared to deliver services and that delay risks further harm to young people.

"I come tonight not in opposition but in partnership," Pastor Byron Craig told the council, saying the municipal administrator and the police chief had engaged more than 20 faith-based organizations prepared to work on youth violence prevention. He listed churches and the Islamic Society of Norristown among those ready to support programs.

Nicole Skinner, youth pastor of Siloam Baptist Church and newly sworn-in police chaplain, asked directly that the council release the funds, saying, "The funds we are requesting have the power to transform lives," and urging the borough to act without delay. Skinner framed the programs as mentorship and safe spaces that reduce violence and improve academic outcomes.

Young residents amplified the appeal. "We wanna feel safe walking to school," Crystal Williams said, asking the council to continue and expand funding for programs, particularly those led by faith-based community organizations.

Representatives of local nonprofits described available services and outreach plans. Eric Johns of Pathway to Potential said his group operates a character-building program and a facility in Bristol, Pa., that serves Norristown youth; he invited council members to tour the site and called for collective investment and accountability rather than punitive responses.

Not all comments were limited to funding. Resident Neda Johnson thanked municipal staff for their professionalism but criticized the council itself, saying, "It is very clear that this council is not working together in a way that reflects the best interest of the people you were elected to serve," and urging members to set aside personal conflicts and prioritize public needs.

No vote on releasing the funds was recorded during the public-comment period. Council procedural items and a series of community announcements — including a 'Snow Much Fun' event at the recreation center, a Vonsi Holiday Market and a Jan. 28 budgeting workshop for business owners — were also presented earlier in the meeting.

Speakers called for prompt action and partnership between the borough, faith-based groups and nonprofits; petitioners said program details and funding breakdowns remain to be provided to the council for formal consideration.

The council proceeded with its agenda after public comment; the record in the transcript does not show a council vote on the requested funding during the portion of the meeting provided.