Tacoma City Council Adopts Resolution 41197 to Combat Youth Gun Violence with 300,000 in Funding

In response to escalating youth gun violence, the Tacoma City Council has unanimously adopted Resolution 41197, which allocates $300,000 for summer programming aimed at safeguarding young people. This initiative includes $200,000 for establishing Whole Child Safe Zone sites, designed to create safe spaces for teens, and an additional $100,000 for expanded summer activities for middle and high school students. Council Member Kiara Daniels articulated the urgency of the resolution, underscoring the need for immediate action to protect Tacoma’s youth from gun violence. Collaborating with local entities such as Tacoma Public Schools and Metro Parks, the resolution outlines strategies for data-driven violence prevention and emphasizes the importance of supporting Black male youth. Mayor Woodards reiterated the city's dedication to working with community partners to align resources effectively for youth safety.

Additionally, the resolution calls for further research on firearm storage safety and analysis of federal legislation that could impact local gun violence. This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term prevention efforts. The collective commitment from city officials and community organizations aims to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Tacoma's youth.