At the Newport News City Council Work Session on June 24, 2025, a pivotal discussion emerged around enhancing community safety perceptions through education. Council members explored how other cities have successfully utilized educational campaigns to improve their safety ratings and address public concerns about crime.

One council member highlighted the importance of targeted educational initiatives, suggesting that small campaigns could effectively communicate safety measures and community resources. "We heard from you that you’re concerned about violent crime," they noted, emphasizing the need for proactive engagement with residents to alleviate fears and build trust.

The conversation underscored a growing recognition that public perception of safety can be influenced not just by crime statistics, but also by how well the community is informed about safety initiatives and resources available to them. This approach aims to bridge the gap between residents' concerns and the actual safety measures in place.

As Newport News considers implementing similar strategies, the council is poised to take actionable steps towards fostering a safer community through education. The anticipated outcome is a more informed public that feels empowered and secure, ultimately leading to a positive shift in the city's safety ratings.