The Healthy Neighborhoods Committee meeting on May 13, 2025, opened with public comments highlighting pressing community concerns. Kevin Corey, the executive director of the Wesley Chapel Mission Center, addressed the committee, emphasizing the importance of funding for after-school programs amid rising challenges in the community.

Corey reported that the Wesley Chapel Mission Center serves a significant number of children, with daily attendance ranging from 80 to 100 kids during the summer months. He expressed gratitude for previous funding but noted that current budgetary constraints are impacting their ability to provide essential services. Corey urged the committee to consider additional resources for the center, particularly in light of predictions indicating an increase in violence among youth aged 10 to 16 in the coming year.

He referenced a study from Boston University that forecasts a troubling rise in crime rates among this age group, including incidents of gun violence. Corey's comments underscored the urgent need for community support and resources to address these challenges effectively.

The meeting served as a platform for discussing the critical role of local organizations in fostering safe and supportive environments for youth, particularly as the city faces potential increases in violence. The committee's response to these concerns will be crucial in shaping future initiatives aimed at enhancing neighborhood safety and well-being.