Mount Vernon is in the grip of a rising tide of crime, leaving its residents increasingly vulnerable and unsafe. The recent rally by Save Mount Vernon, aimed at ending gun violence, highlights the urgent need for a state of emergency to be declared and for law enforcement to receive much-needed support. Unfortunately, yet another shooting has occurred yesterday, underscoring the pressing need for action.
The safety and security of Mount Vernon's residents must be the top priority of our elected officials, and we must not rest until lawlessness is eradicated from every corner of the city. It is the government's duty to protect and defend its citizens from violence, and we cannot allow this unacceptable situation to continue any longer.
Once elected, I will:
Invest in the development of our youth with mentoring programs, counseling, and job skill training. It works! After founding the first accredited construction trades school in Mount Vernon, over 1,400 students secured union jobs and elevated their circumstances.
Ensure Mount Vernon becomes a business-friendly location--unemployment factors into high crime. Our city lacks the necessary business development to compete with our surrounding municipalities. Companies relocating to Mount Vernon will employ our residents with livable wages. In addition, corporate and sales taxes will fund job training centers to give the unemployed the necessary skills to obtain good jobs.
Create a support network for formerly incarcerated citizens to assist in housing, counseling, job training and employment.
Create a comprehensive plan with county, state and federal law enforcement agencies to remove illegal guns and other illegal activity off the streets of Mount Vernon.
Hire 40 additional Police Officers within the first 18 months of my administration to effectively increase police presence.
Change police department work schedule from rotating shifts to steady tours promoting officer wellness and reducing overtime cost.
Negotiate salaries and benefits for our Police Officers to be compatible with other municipalities to prevent the continuous "badge drain" of our police department.
Review police policies, procedures, and training to ensure MVPD operates within National Policing Standards.
Obtain grants for city-wide security cameras and gunshot detection systems.
My top priority is to ensure all Mount Vernon residents are safe.
"So let's work together for a better Mount Vernon!"
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