YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Youngstown City Council convened for its first meeting since the recent downtown explosion that rocked the community. Although there were no new updates on the Realty building, the impact of the explosion was a major topic of discussion during the meeting.
Residents like Million Perry-Phifer, who regularly attends city council meetings, expressed concern and sorrow over the tragic incident. The explosion at the Realty Building left many in the community worried about the safety and well-being of their fellow attendees.
Councilman Julius Oliver shared his personal connection to the explosion, as it occurred in his first ward where he had lived for over six years. The weight of the tragedy weighed heavily on him, impacting his sleep as he grappled with the aftermath in his community.
In the aftermath of the explosion, Mayor and city officials worked tirelessly to coordinate emergency response efforts and support those affected. Councilman Oliver commended the swift actions and decisions made by the mayor during the crisis, highlighting the unity and collaboration exhibited by the community during a difficult time.
The council meeting also addressed plans for community support and recovery, including initiatives to assist local businesses affected by the explosion. Councilman Mike Ray urged residents to continue supporting downtown businesses impacted by the incident, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity in times of adversity.
In addition to discussing the explosion, the Youngstown City Council approved funding for various projects, including the construction of an ADA-approved kayak launch at McKelvey Lake. They also authorized the sale of a former fire station for use as additional storage space by the EMT ambulance service.
Councilwoman Anita Davis proposed legislation to restructure the city’s police department, aiming to reduce the number of detective sergeants and lieutenants in an effort to streamline operations and resources within the department. These efforts reflect ongoing initiatives by the council to address community needs and enhance public safety measures.