Montgomery Mayor Celebrates Crime Reductions, Eyes City-Run School System
Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed announced encouraging trends in the city’s crime statistics, thanks in part to the Montgomery Metro Area Crime Suppression (MACS) task force. In a recent interview with the Alabama Politics This Week podcast, Reed revealed that violent crime has decreased by 28% in the first half of the year, with significant drops in non-fatal shootings (22%), robberies (40%), and homicides (12%). While acknowledging these improvements, he emphasized that ongoing efforts are essential as recent spikes in violence, including a series of shootings, prompted the implementation of a youth curfew.
Reed also highlighted the personal impact of crime, particularly on Black communities. “For me, it’s personal… far too many Black men and boys are affected by violent crime,” he stated, underscoring a commitment to tackling these issues through education, economic opportunities, and local engagement.
A significant focus moving forward is Reed’s support for a potential city-run school system. Following the recent ousting of a popular superintendent from the Montgomery County School Board, Reed sees an opportunity to explore alternatives for education governance that might address systemic issues leading to crime. “The city school system is certainly an option I intend to explore,” he said, expressing the need for trust in leadership to foster positive change in education.
Reed’s vision for Montgomery encompasses a holistic approach to safety and education, aiming for a future where all residents feel secure, and youth are empowered through effective schooling. Discussions regarding the city-run system are already underway, as local officials seek innovative solutions to longstanding challenges.
For more insights, listen to Reed’s full interview on Alabama Politics This Week, available on all major podcast platforms.
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