In a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed zone change that would allow for the establishment of a mental health facility in their neighborhood. The meeting, which featured public comments from local residents, highlighted concerns about safety, community integrity, and the potential impact on local property values.

Pastor Tommy Starks, representing Benson Memorial CME Church, expressed deep reservations about the facility's location, citing fears that it could disrupt the community's efforts to maintain a safe and welcoming environment. He emphasized that many seniors in the area are particularly anxious about the implications of such a facility, suggesting that it could lead to increased security concerns and a decline in the neighborhood's quality of life.

Dr. Kenya Edom also spoke against the proposal, arguing that the facility, which is intended for veterans, does not align with the community's demographics or aspirations. She pointed out that the area is working hard to shed its reputation as a \"drug-infested, impoverished community\" and that introducing a facility for mental health treatment could undermine these efforts. Dr. Edom referenced alarming statistics about mass shootings, linking the potential risks associated with the facility to broader safety concerns within the community.

The meeting concluded with a clear sentiment from the speakers: the community is united in its opposition to the zone change, advocating for alternatives that would better serve their neighborhood's needs. As discussions continue, the council faces the challenge of balancing community concerns with the need for mental health resources.