City and Community Leaders Talk Safety in the Washington School Neighborhood

long beach City and Community Leaders Talk Safety in the

As part of the City’s Safe Long Beach efforts, Councilwoman Lena Gonzalez, City staff, and community leaders convened on Friday, August 7, 2015, to discuss new avenues for improving safety and enhancing quality of life in the Washington School Neighborhood.

“Ensuring the safety of our City is a responsibility that is shared by all,” said Mayor Robert Garcia.  “I commend the ongoing efforts of our Councilmembers, City staff, community leaders, and residents who are taking an active role to protect the health, safety, and welfare of Long Beach neighborhoods.”

The round table discussion expanded on the goals and initiatives of Safe Long Beach, including increased resident engagement, neighborhood improvement, career development, and reduced crime.  The event also featured a presentation by Councilmember Gonzalez on a wide-range of community projects and existing programs aimed at deterring criminal activity and uplifting the Washington School Neighborhood.

“The safety of families in the Washington Neighborhood is my top priority,” said Councilwoman Gonzalez.  “Building community leadership and working in tandem to tackle challenges and deliver essential programs and services is crucial to maintaining a safe and sustainable community.”

Representing those that live, work, and play in the Washington School Neighborhood—City officials, local school principals and teachers, faith leaders; community-based organizations, business owners, and members of the community gathered at The Guidance Center Headquarters to initiate a call to action for achieving the outlined priorities of Safe Long Beach.

Adopted by the City Council in May 2014, Safe Long Beach, the City’s Violence Prevention Plan addresses a broad safety agenda aimed at reducing all forms of violence, including domestic abuse, child abuse, elder abuse, hate crimes, bullying, gang violence, and violent crime.  The Plan draws upon the City’s many existing assets to target violence at its root and attain the goal of building a safer Long Beach by 2020.

The Washington School Neighborhood is bounded by Pacific Coast Highway to the north, Long Beach Boulevard to the west, Anaheim Street to the south, and Magnolia Avenue to the east.

For more information on Safe Long Beach, go to www.lbvpp.com