Guilford County leaders have passed a resolution declaring gun violence a public health crisis. The move comes in the wake of the recent deadly school shooting in Texas.
The resolution was paired with a unity statement that outlines how community partners are working together to protect students and residents from gun violence by focusing on safety planning, training, and facility design, and they extend to coordinating mental health services and support. The statement was presented by Guilford County schools, the government, the cities of Greensboro and High Point, and the city's law enforcement agencies.
Commissioner Carly Cooke says the county's $300 million bond measure passed in 2020, and last month's $1.7 billion package will allow them to do more.
"There are a number of schools that will be rebuilt using those bond dollars, but on top of that, every school in the county is going to receive some funds for safety and security upgrades even if they're not getting a full facility makeover," says Cooke.
The unity statement concludes with a call to action for all Guilford County citizens to report criminal behavior, demand better intervention services for struggling children and families, and to volunteer at local schools.