How would you improve your community?

How Would I Improve My Community? 🌻❣️🌻

When I picture my ideal community, it’s one where everyone — no matter their age, background, or income — feels safe enough to walk outside and enjoy what’s around them.

I imagine neighbors strolling to our small businesses and local eateries, popping into shops without fear of being robbed. Merchants focusing on serving their customers, not worrying about protecting their livelihoods.

I imagine families walking to the park, letting their children run free on the playground, soaking in fresh air without a thought about danger. A place where gathering outside isn’t a risk — it’s just part of daily life.

Right now, that’s not our reality.

Too many of us have gotten used to the sound of gunshots. To seeing fights break out between unhoused people. To hearing about cars broken into, vehicles speeding down the street, and even fires in dumpsters.

We live down the street from a police station — and yet, the crime and mayhem keep coming. Maybe they feel helpless too.

I wish I had the how. I wish I knew the exact steps it would take to make us feel safe again. All I know is that change has to be possible, because living in fear should never be normal.

I believe the first step is for all of us — residents, business owners, city leaders, and yes, even law enforcement — to be honest about the problem and commit to working together. A safe, thriving community isn’t built by ignoring what’s broken. It’s built by facing it, together.

Because we all deserve to live in a place where safety is not a privilege — it’s a given. 🌻