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Residents ask Norristown council to back Stop the Violence Day; youth group OTR seeks city resources
Summary
During public comment at the June 16 work session, community members asked council to sponsor a Stop the Violence community day planned for July 18 and youth organizers from OTR requested access to municipal spaces and support for events aimed at engaging young people.
During public comment at the June 16 Norristown work session, residents urged council support for community safety and youth engagement initiatives.
Taria Mayo introduced herself and requested council sponsorship for "Stop the Violence Day," proposing a July 18 event with educational activities, youth engagement, guest speakers, entertainment and resource tables to promote mentorship and alternatives to violence. "Stop the Violence Day will provide a safe environment where families, youths, local organizations, businesses, and community leaders can connect," Mayo said, asking council to help with permits, venue, equipment and other expenses.
Representatives from OTR (On the Run) — Hassan and Lee Marlin (also known as Leontay) — described their organization’s work using basketball and music to engage youth. Hassan said OTR holds 1‑on‑1 and 2‑on‑2 basketball events, music showcases and park programming and requested that the city open municipal facilities and other resources to support expanded events. Lee Marlin said the group’s platform reaches large audiences and that they can draw significant crowds for local events.
Councilors acknowledged the requests; staff noted the event date and the council president encouraged follow‑up conversations with staff to identify permits and sponsorship details. The public comment period helped surface two community‑led proposals seeking municipal partnership to support youth programming and community safety.
