In the heart of Dallas, city leaders gathered to discuss a pivotal initiative aimed at enhancing youth safety and community engagement. The meeting, held on May 12, 2025, showcased a collaborative effort between the Dallas City Council and the Lone Star Justice Alliance, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing community input in shaping effective strategies.

City Manager Seville opened the session by highlighting the ongoing development of a youth strategy, which has been informed by feedback from various community members and generations. "Your input at this moment is critical to our success," Seville stated, inviting further collaboration with community organizations and faith groups to ensure a comprehensive approach.

Ulysse Reeves Waters, Chief Innovations Officer for the Lone Star Justice Alliance, took the floor to present the strategic plan developed in partnership with the National League of Cities. Waters, who has a background in law and community prosecution, underscored the significance of the National League of Cities, which has supported local governments for nearly a century.

Dallas was recently awarded a grant under the municipality's reimagining community safety initiative, sponsored by Wells Fargo, joining a cohort of cities including Baltimore and Philadelphia. This funding aims to explore innovative ways to enhance safety for young people in the community.

As the meeting progressed, the focus remained on the collaborative efforts to address youth safety, with plans to further engage with local institutions and departments. The discussions underscored a commitment to creating a safer environment for Dallas's youth, driven by community voices and strategic partnerships.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism and determination, as city leaders recognized the importance of their collective efforts in shaping a brighter future for the city's younger generations. As Dallas moves forward, the emphasis on collaboration and community input will be crucial in realizing these ambitious goals.