Residents gathered Tuesday evening, Jan. 13, 2025 for the first “Safe Auburn” community meeting of 2025 to discuss ongoing efforts to improve safety and quality of life in the city.
This free, open event was held at West Auburn High School.
Hosted by Auburn’s Office of Equity, Engagement, and Outreach, the meeting featured updates on key community concerns and initiatives, including crime prevention, homelessness services, traffic safety, and youth programs.
Top Concerns Identified
Kesha Taylor, a representative of the City of Auburn’s Office of Equity, Engagement, and Outreach, opened the meeting by summarizing the top issues raised during a previous series of meetings in 2024.
Community concerns included gun violence, homelessness, theft, gang activity, drug abuse, and child safety.
Suggested solutions ranged from implementing block watch programs and increasing police presence to expanding community resources and youth programs.
Youth Safety in Schools
Representatives from the Auburn School District, including Dee Nelons, Director of Safety and Security, and Dave Halford, Executive Director of School Leadership, highlighted safety measures in schools. These include the use of school resource officers, vaping sensors, and mental health counseling. A pilot program using vape detection sensors has been particularly effective in addressing vaping in school bathrooms.
“Our number one priority is the safety and security of students and staff,” said Nelons. “We’ve made significant investments in prevention and awareness programs.”
Homelessness Initiatives
Kent Hay, Director of Human Services, detailed the city’s efforts to address homelessness, including shelter programs, outreach services, and housing solutions. In 2024, Auburn’s homelessness services housed 205 individuals. Hay also discussed the city’s clean and sober housing program and its no-camping ordinance for parks.
“We manage homelessness well in Auburn, but we’ll never completely end it,” said Hay. “Our focus is on compassion and accountability.”
Traffic and Crime Prevention
Public Works representatives reported on traffic calming measures, including newly implemented roundabouts and speed studies.
Auburn Police Chief Mark Caillier emphasized the effectiveness of safety cameras in reducing crime, noting that 20 new cameras had been installed in 2024, with 20 more planned this year.
“Crime in Auburn is down significantly,” Caillier said. “But we’re focused on long-term trends to ensure these numbers continue to decline.”
Community Engagement
The meeting also addressed communication gaps between city leadership and residents. A resident shared frustration about the lack of awareness regarding city initiatives. In response, Mayor Nancy Backus pledged to prioritize better communication in 2025.
“This year will be the year of storytelling,” said Backus. “We’ll focus on sharing what’s happening in Auburn and making sure residents feel informed and involved.”
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded with a Q&A session, where residents voiced concerns about juvenile crime, traffic safety, and ways to increase community involvement.
City leaders encouraged participation in block watch programs and other initiatives aimed at fostering safer neighborhoods.
Video
Watch full video of the meeting below:
More Info
More info on the “Safe Auburn” can be found here.
Read our previous coverage of this program here.
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