Pontiac declares gun violence a public health crisis, looks at ways to address it

The Pontiac City Council has declared gun violence a public health crisis, passing a resolution aimed at bringing funding and support to affected families and organizations. Despite a decline in gun-related crimes in recent years, city leaders emphasize the persistent trauma and loss in the community. The resolution calls for studying gun violence causes, creating a prevention-focused task force, and increasing support for community-based programs like Deleah Sharp’s foundation, which assists families impacted by violence. Talks are underway to involve local groups in shaping the city’s response and developing targeted interventions.