Dear Mayor:

Yesterday, Mayor Robert Bowser, League third Vice-President and Chairman of the League of Municipalities' Gang Prevention and Youth Violence Task Force and Mayor Doug Palmer of Trenton and President of the NJ Conference of Mayors, co-hosted a press conference at the State House urging Legislative action on a set of proposals which would help curb escalating gang violence in our communities

The League of Municipalities and the Conference of Mayors agree gang violence is a critical issue that presents a threat to public safety in our urban, suburban and rural communities. This upswing in gang activities demands aggressive action.

Expressing support of the anti-gang package were Mayors Jeremiah Healy, Jersey City, Gwendolyn Faison, Camden, Wayne Smith, Irvington, Jose Torres, Paterson, Ron Sworen, Frenchtown and Tim McDonough, Hope Township. They were joined by police chiefs, police directors and other local officials from across the State.

Mayors urged the Legislature to move immediately to enact the package and forward it to the Governor's desk. These bills provide needed tools to support the battle against the threat to public safety.

The anti-gang package includes bills which establish a Gun Court Pilot Program, upgrade possession of assault firearm to a second degree crime, permit municipal ordinance to curb gang related loitering; instruct elementary school students in ways to avoid membership in gangs.

For further details, see the League's web site at www.njslom.com or call Helen Yeldell at (609)695-3481, ext. 12. For copies of the complete package, contact Donna Baltz at (609) 695-3481 ext. 14.