Community Leaders Discuss Crime Prevention and City Infrastructure at Columbus Candidate Forum
COLUMBUS, MS — As the city grapples with crime and infrastructure issues, local leaders gathered for a candidate forum at the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library on Saturday to discuss potential solutions. Incumbent Mayor Keith Gaskin, seeking re-election for Ward 1, cautioned against over-reliance on surveillance and urged a comprehensive approach to community safety and crime prevention.
A Cautious Approach to Surveillance
With discussions of a citywide curfew and the implementation of high-tech surveillance cameras gaining traction, Gaskin expressed concerns about the implications of creating a “Big Brother” environment. “We can’t become a big brother system,” he stated. The mayor emphasized the need for investment in social programs like early childhood education and re-entry initiatives for formerly incarcerated individuals, noting, “You will never arrest your way out of crime.”
The forum, organized by the League of Women Voters of the Golden Triangle Area, featured contributions from various candidates, including Bill Strauss and Darren Leach, alongside a cohort of council hopefuls. They collectively addressed crime, infrastructure, and communication gaps within the community, aiming to connect more effectively with constituents.
Views on Crime Reduction Strategies
Council candidate Mary Beth Jeter proposed the enforcement of a citywide curfew as a proactive measure against late-night crimes, a sentiment echoed by Pierre Beard. Both advocated for the establishment of a public transportation system to minimize the need for residents to walk at late hours. Meanwhile, Gaskin and Leach argued for a broader preventive approach, focusing on community-building initiatives to address the root causes of crime.
Leach remarked, “We’ve got to rebuild the communities around us. That’s how we address the crime,” while Strauss insisted that non-profits and local organizations should also take an active role in youth prevention initiatives.
Infrastructure and Community Needs
The candidates also acknowledged significant infrastructure challenges facing Columbus. Gaskin described the current state of the city’s infrastructure as “deplorable” and called for cooperative efforts among council members to prioritize essential projects. “When you’re paving, those types of things, the wards need to work together,” Gaskin emphasized.
Contributions from other candidates highlighted the necessity for comprehensive planning. Jeter focused on addressing sewage issues as a precursor to road repairs, while candidate Donald Pope championed long-term maintenance over temporary fixes to drainage systems.
Communication Improvements Essential
All candidates agreed on the need for improved communication with the public. Suggestions ranged from newsletters and radio broadcasts to neighborhood meetings to enhance community engagement. Pope and Jeter underscored the value of transparency, proposing the reinstatement of a Public Information Officer, while Gaskin touted existing public sessions as key opportunities for dialogue.
Community Reactions
The forum drew a mixed response from attendees, with some appreciating the clarity it offered regarding candidates’ positions. Local resident Jermaine Shanklin felt that more questions remained unanswered, lamenting a lack of public engagement in city issues. Conversely, Randi Robison, president of the Columbus-Lowndes Public Library Board of Trustees, expressed satisfaction, stating, “We learned a lot about the people running in our local election.”
As the general election approaches this Tuesday, the candidates’ platforms aim to resonate with voters seeking effective solutions to emerging community challenges.
Further details will be updated as the election process unfolds.
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.