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Roanoke's Gun Violence Task Force Hears from the Public for the First Time

Nick Gilmore / RADIO IQ

City leaders in Roanoke got fed up with gun-related crimes in parts of the city. That prompted them to create a task force to research ways to address gun violence.

Task force members fielded questions and comments for about an hour from residents who have opinions from both sides of the gun control debate.

“Enact Constitutional carry – self-defense is a right not a privilege,” says Maynard Keller.

Martin Jeffrey has issues with a gun sale regularly held at Roanoke’s civic center.

“There’s nothing stopping them from shutting that down," Jeffrey says. "Nationally, we all know that a lot of illegal gun sales take place in parking lots during those shows.”

Shakira Williams chairs the task force. She says some proposals mentioned during the hearing – like bringing response services together under one roof – have already been discussed.

Williams believes the public will be vital in helping cut back on gun violence.

“Nothing can be accomplished without the citizens," she explains. "And so it’s important for people to feel that they are able to contribute – for their voices to be heard.”

The task force will bring some of its specific proposals back to the public during another hearing in October. After that, the committee will provide city council with a report detailing their suggestions in November.

You can find more information here.

Nick Gilmore is a meteorologist, news producer and reporter/anchor for RADIO IQ.
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