Lykins neighbors raise concerns with increasing number of crimes in the Northeast community. | File photo
Lykins neighbors raise concerns with increasing number of crimes in the Northeast community. | File photo

Dorri Partain

Managing Editor

Residents in all Historic Northeast neighborhoods are invited to a community forum to address issues of public safety, crime prevention and access to community resources. This event — planned and hosted by the Lykins Neighborhood Association (LNA) — is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 27 at the North-East Branch Library (6000 Wilson Ave.), Meeting Room A.

Beginning at 6 p.m., this forum will provide an open platform for discussion, education and collaboration between law enforcement, service providers and residents, according to Angie Hicks-Curtis, LNA Bilingual Service Coordinator.

Confirmed panelists include representatives from the City’s fire and police departments, along with City Council members. Attendees will be provided with comment cards to ask specific questions during this moderated event.

At press time these panelists included:

  • James Dean, KCFD Deputy Chief, Community Risk Reduction (Fire Prevention/Community Paramedics/Safety/Public Outreach)
  • Major Chris Young KCPD East Patrol Division Commander and/or Community Engagement Officers
  • Mayor Pro Tem Rayna Parks-Shaw 5th District
  • Councilwoman Melissa Robinson 3rd District
  • Mattie Rhodes Center  Street Outreach team ParateXPaz 

Topics to be discussed include violence prevention strategies and community engagement, availability of victim support services, connecting with outreach resources and collaborative efforts between neighborhood groups, service providers and law enforcement, according to Hicks-Curtis in an emailed statement.

“Our goal is to foster transparency, build trust, and equip residents with practical tools and resources to help make our neighborhood safer,” Hicks-Curtis said, on behalf of LNA board members.

“The Lykins Neighborhood Association is committed to creating a safer, stronger community by bringing residents, service providers, and city leaders together for open dialogue,” said Hicks-Curtis. “The upcoming Crime and Violence Forum is not just about addressing challenges — it’s about building collaborative solutions that reflect the voices and needs of our neighbors. We are grateful for the support of our partners and elected officials in making this possible, and we look forward to working together to ensure every resident feels safe and supported in Lykins.”