To: City Council and City Leadership

We, the undersigned, are members of the community, youth, families, and organizations who care about the safety and well-being of our people. We call on the city to implement a formal response plan when a life is lost to gun violence to ensure transparency, support, and accountability.

We ask the city to:

  1.Direct Family Notification

Before social media, rumors, or news reports spread information, the city ensures:

-Families receive direct, respectful, and compassionate notification
-Notification is done in person whenever possible, by trained individuals
-Families are treated with dignity, patience, and humanity
-No information is released publicly before families are informed

2.Family Care & Support

After notification, trained city officials or response team members will:

-Provide face-to-face, empathetic presence
-Offer genuine condolences
-Share clear referrals for support
-Provide ongoing follow-up, not just one visit

3.Transparent, Responsible Public Communication

When appropriate, the city will:

-Release official public statements and press releases
-Share verified, respectful updates

Communicate with care that:

-Avoids sensationalizing
-Protects family dignity
-Reduces rumors and panic

Provide public updates as appropriate to:

-Maintain transparency
-Offer reassurance

This builds trust, truth, and community stability.

Goal:

Ensure the city responds with empathy, unity, and actionable support for youth, families, and the community.