Lexington city leaders are asking police how local government can help to reduce gun violence. The issue came up for discussion at Tuesday’s council work session in reaction to the shooting death of Lexington Lafayette High School Sophomore Trinity Gay. She died after being hit in an exchange of gunfire in a restaurant parking lot.
Police Chief Mark Barnard says some of the best help could come from citizens who have information about those involved in violent crimes.
Council member Angela Evans suggested more tax money for youth-centered social and mental health services with measured attention on city aesthetics. “We talk about how pretty it is and how pretty the city is and we want to make it pretty,” said Evans. “But, we really need to look at I guess the soul of the city and we have problems that we’re honestly not ready to discuss.”
Evans says the community is crying out, adding it’s only going to get louder. Mayor Jim Gray and his staff are meeting with a number of groups including those in the faith community to examine the issue broadly. He expects a report to council within a few weeks.?
