Henderson leaders resolve to combat gun violence as a community

Tuesday afternoon, the City of Henderson made a resolution to reduce violent crime and gun violence. They're changing the way they classify violence – from a public safety issue, to a public health crisis.

What does that approach mean for the community's efforts to get gun violence under control?

In this resolution, Henderson leaders say gun violence is linked to a host of health problems, such as substance abuse and premature death -- which is why they're deeming it a public health issue.

Surveillance cameras captured a terrifying scene on Memorial Day weekend. In the middle of the day, at the Gate City Food Store, gunfire broke out. Two men with long guns returned fire. The store window shattered; a customer crawled to safety.

Now, a month later, Henderson is declaring its commitment to the reduction of violent crime.

In this city council meeting, city manager Terrell Blackmon reads from a resolution declaring gun violence "a public health issue."

It cites the Centers for Disease Control in saying gun violence is the leading cause of premature death.

"Henderson City Council is committed to providing the necessary support to enhance the efforts of the Henderson Police Department," said Blackmon.

Like many other police departments in the area, it's beset by staffing shortages.

Mayor Eddie Ellington says by passing this resolution, Henderson will qualify for more state and federal money to combat gun violence.

Not only does he want more officers on the street, he wants those streets to be cleaner.

"We have to start focusing on property improvements, neighborhood improvements, and holding people accountable. When we ride through our neighborhoods, we see a lot of improvements that need to be done," said Ellington.

Mayor Pro Tem Sarah Coffey says gun crimes are not a problem for the police alone to tackle.

The resolution calls on everyone – churches, health care providers, civic groups, parents, neighbors – to work more closely with the police and city government.

City leaders say they passed this resolution to coincide with the safer communities act, which will invest in efforts to prevent community violence across the country.