Athens Reporter

Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz held a media conference on February 28, 2024, where he addressed various public safety initiatives and the county's stance on immigration issues.

Expressing his condolences for recent tragedies, Mayor Girtz stated, "We are all grieving the loss of Laken Riley, just as we've grieved so many tragedies over the years in Athens." He emphasized the community's shared responsibility in improving safety, acknowledging the need to address criminal activities and work towards a safer environment.

Mayor Girtz outlined upcoming public safety initiatives, including the advancement of the Real Time Crime Center, mobile closed-circuit television surveillance trailers, and the introduction of all-terrain vehicles for police patrols. He also highlighted salary increases for police officers, noting a net gain in the number of officers employed in 2023.

Regarding crime statistics, Mayor Girtz mentioned Athens-Clarke County's rankings compared to other Southeastern Conference communities and reiterated the goal of zero murders in the community. He emphasized that public safety involves various factors beyond policing, such as housing, youth programs, and community outreach.

Addressing the county's immigration status, Mayor Girtz clarified, "There is no legislation from this government that has created sanctuary city status." He highlighted the county's annual submission of information to the Georgia Department of Audits to demonstrate compliance with state law.

In addition to the initiatives within the Police Department, Mayor Girtz discussed investments in quality housing, youth development programs, and support for neighborhood leaders, emphasizing a holistic approach to public safety.

The Mayor's comprehensive approach to public safety encompasses a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing community well-being and addressing crime concerns. The full details of the initiatives and statistics discussed during the media conference are available for reference online.