Bessemer Neighborhood Residents Call for Action Amid Rising Crime and Disorder
PUEBLO, Colo. — The Bessemer neighborhood in Pueblo is experiencing significant turmoil, prompting residents to demand immediate intervention from local authorities. At a recent city council work session, community members voiced their concerns over escalating issues related to homelessness, drug use, and illegal dumping that they claim threaten their safety and quality of life.
A Community Under Siege
Residents characterized their community as "under siege," expressing frustration and fear over increasing criminal activity. Betty Finley, a longtime resident, shared her disappointment, stating, "We are being invaded by the homeless, the addicts of the homeless, and gang members, and we can’t get the help that we need in Bessemer." She went on to describe a neighborhood plagued by trash, abandoned homes, and open drug use, stressing the urgency of the situation.
In response, residents are advocating for the establishment of a "Bessemer Safety Task Force," aimed at coordinating law enforcement efforts, community cleanup initiatives, and outreach programs to assist vulnerable individuals.
Council Members Acknowledge Limited Authority
During the meeting, council members listened to the residents’ impassioned pleas. However, some expressed concern over their limited ability to effect change. Councilmember Regina Maestri explained, "Our role in council – we put out the ordinances, the laws, and the codes that give the mayor the authority to exercise enforcement through her police department." She noted several existing ordinances, including loitering bans and minor curfews, but acknowledged challenges with recent legal setbacks, such as a court ruling against the city’s attempt to outlaw needle exchange programs.
Councilmember Roger Gomez highlighted staffing shortages within the police department, noting, "They can’t do the proactive stuff they’d love to do. They’re on the end of this—it’s all reactive." He also pointed out that other cities face similar challenges.
Moving Forward
Although no formal task force was established during the council meeting, local leaders encouraged Bessemer residents to form grassroots solutions, leveraging existing neighborhood watch groups and community initiatives.
As frustration mounts, Bessemer residents remain committed to pushing for more aggressive city action to reclaim their community. "We plan to keep advocating for the changes we need," Finley asserted, embodying the collective determination of her neighbors to restore safety and dignity in their neighborhood.
This story will continue to develop as residents and city officials seek effective solutions to the pressing challenges facing Bessemer.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.