Opinion

Meeting on gangs 1st step of many needed

Posted October 11, 2007 11:00 pm

The Elgin Latino Political Action Team (ELPAT) would like to take this opportunity to thank the many community leaders who attended the recent meeting concerning the increased gang-related activities, co-hosted by the city at The Centre.

Special thanks to members of the Gifford Park, Summit/Hill and NENA enighborhood associations; Police Chief Lisa Womack and members of the police deparment; assistant city manager; and Councilmen Bob Gilliam, John Walters, Dave Kaptain and Juan Figueroa for their support and guidance.

It appeared that the general consensus among those in attendance was that seeking solutions to the current gang activities did not rest solely on the city or police, but on all citizens.

We must seek ways to reduce gang violence through a collaborative effort with neighborhood associations, local organizations, School District U-46, churches, local businesses, the city and police to accomplish the ultimate goal: gang suppression.

We hope to continue working as one force in this battle against gang violence in order to provide a safe community for all, especially our children.

George Irizarry

ELPAT chairman

Elgin

Article Comments

Article Categories
Communities Elgin Letters to the Editor Opinion

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.