Retirees, grieving mother and small-business owners urge council action at public safety meeting

During the public-comment period several residents urged the committee to take action on issues affecting public safety and economic stability.

Cheryl Neechie, a retired Richmond City police officer, described being seriously injured in the line of duty and said she only recently received her full retirement benefit. She urged the committee to consider a cost-of-living increase for city employees and retirees, saying the issue is about principle as well as pay. "If we were to get a 1% COLA, I would get 96¢ more per month," Neechie said, explaining the small but symbolic nature of the change.

Kathy Burrell, a 9th District resident, described the November 29 death of her child and questioned why the driver was not charged. "Mowing my hundred and 26 pound daughter down with a 300 pound car is not an accident. It is a crime," Burrell said, and she urged changes to laws to create consequences for drivers in pedestrian fatalities.

Esad Alshami, president of the Yemeni American Association, urged clearer and consistent enforcement after his community experienced dozens of small-business closures tied to an enforcement operation; he said 47 stores remain closed and criticized long delays and inconsistent messaging from city regulators, calling for transparent notices and a reasonable opportunity to cure violations.

Committee members and the chair thanked speakers and requested follow-up discussions with the police chief, city attorney and policy analysts to clarify legal processes and next steps.