Kansas City Business Owners Urge Officials for Safety Measures Following Rise in Crime

KC Business Owners Demand Action on Recent Crime

Kansas City, Mo. – Recent crime incidents have prompted local business owners in Kansas City to take action, calling on city officials to implement changes to enhance safety in their community. A particularly unsettling event occurred at a grocery store on Prospect Avenue, where a naked woman stormed into the Sun Fresh, wreaking havoc by throwing products off the shelves. Business owners are voicing their frustration, as they believe ongoing criminal activities are harming their livelihood and the local area.

Council Considers Detention Center as a Solution

In response to these concerns, the city council is discussing an ordinance that could potentially fund a new detention center. Councilwoman Melissa Robinson proposed that this ordinance be placed on the November ballot. It aims to renew a capital improvement public safety sales tax for 32 years, which would finance not just the detention center, but also a substance abuse facility, a low-barrier shelter, and transitional housing for the homeless.

Robinson’s View on Community Safety

Robinson expressed her worries, stating, “I’m concerned that individuals who are committing violent crimes are only being held for hours but let back out on the streets to do harm to other people.” She emphasized that this initiative is crucial for the safety and well-being of the entire community.

Council Revisions and Approval Timeline

The city council has opted to amend the ordinance, reducing the term to 15 years and scheduling it for the April 2025 ballot. This measure will be re-evaluated in 30 days. Despite the amendment, Robinson expressed frustration, saying, “We cannot wait; our community is suffering; today was an opportunity to act now.” She underscored the ongoing dangers residents face as they navigate their daily lives.

Mayor Lucas Emphasizes Need for Details

Mayor Quinton Lucas voiced his concerns regarding the timeline for the ordinance, insisting that more specifics are needed before presenting it to the voters. He stressed the necessity of identifying a proper site and development plan for the detention center.

Proposed Locations for the Detention Center

Robinson has suggested three possible locations for the center, including areas near KCI, East Bottoms, and US 40 Highway close to I-70. Meanwhile, Lucas suggested that the 8th floor of the Kansas City Police Headquarters could serve as a temporary detention space, which could be operational within months.

Community Sentiment

Local business owner Emmet Pierson Jr., who oversees the Sun Fresh, expressed his desire for change, adding, “If nothing happens, my board and staff will look at different opportunities.” Pierson mentioned that disturbances in and around his store happen daily, leading to decreased customer visits and sales.

Impact of Crime on Local Businesses

He noted, “Nobody wants to go through all of that to go spend their money, their hard-earned money, to get healthy food. But you have to go through a war zone to get there.” Pierson highlighted how law enforcement is often unable to take immediate action due to the absence of facilities for individuals involved in criminal acts. “It’s like broken windows; if I see one, it’s going to continue,” he remarked.

Conclusion

The ongoing dialogue between Kansas City business owners and city officials underscores the urgent need for effective measures to combat crime and improve community safety. As discussions continue around the proposed detention center and other potential solutions, residents remain hopeful for a safer environment.