ROANOKE, Va. – Reducing gun violence – it’s a national issue that each locality is tackling in very different ways.
Roanoke City Council heard an update on Monday morning from its gun violence prevention commission about its strategy moving forward.
City Manager Bob Cowell pointed out that when it comes to the city level of government and its approach to curbing gun violence ... regulating the availability of guns isn’t part of their approach or ability.
Instead, the city is focusing on policing and intervention and prevention efforts in the community. Much of that is focused on kids, and providing them with positive ways to spend their time ... keeping them out of trouble.
“Many of the most recent shooting incidents have had more to do with individuals engaged in personal disputes versus individuals embedded with gangs. That requires a different approach,” he said.
On Monday morning, they talked about an initiative called Star City Safe which opens city buildings for kids in the area as a way to give them a space to meet and connect.
The city has a list of activities that kids can get involved in including a teen apprenticeship opportunity on its website. You can see the events by clicking here.