City leaders push for urgent funding to combat violence

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the importance of ensuring competitive pricing for public projects, emphasizing the need for due diligence in managing taxpayer dollars. A representative highlighted that costs incurred by the department would ultimately impact property tax liens, underscoring the responsibility to secure the best possible deals.

The meeting also addressed funding concerns related to community safety initiatives. A council member expressed urgency regarding a potential shortfall in a $1.7 million allocation from the county commissioners, which is critical for implementing wraparound services and street intervention programs aimed at reducing gun violence and juvenile crime in Montgomery.

In response, city officials confirmed that they have applied for a $2 million grant through the Community-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant Program, with awards expected in October. Additionally, they are exploring twelve other grant opportunities, including those for community policing and school violence prevention, totaling over $15 million in potential funding.

Despite these efforts, officials noted that a minimum of $10 million annually is necessary to effectively address violence prevention in the city. The council member emphasized the need for proactive measures to secure funding, ensuring that the city’s initiatives to combat violent crime remain on track, regardless of the outcome of the county's funding decisions.