Crime down and recovery investments rise: Cobb cites declines in overdose and steps to move people into housing

Mayor Joe Cobb highlighted public-safety and recovery efforts, noting that "overall crime has dropped 19% so far this year, and 50% in Downtown Roanoke." He credited Roanoke Police Department facilities and programs with supporting faster responses and stronger prevention efforts.

On behavioral-health and homelessness, Cobb said the city has directed more than $4,000,000 in opioid-abatement funds since 2024 into community partners and that overdose-related emergency visits have fallen about 40% since 2020 while overdose deaths are down more than 60% from the 2022 peak. He also reported that the city's homeless-assistance team and partners have helped over 300 people move into permanent homes since January 2025 and announced the upcoming grand opening of the Jane Care Center, a one-stop day center.