(Astoria, NY) - Recent events in our community have ignited a critical conversation about public safety, criminal justice policies, and the potential impact on our neighborhood. Kelly Klingman a candidate for City Council in District 22, believes it is her duty to address these concerns, particularly with respect to the policies advocated by her opponent, Tiffany Caban, which some members of our community perceive as a clear and present danger.

Let us begin by acknowledging the Bosnian-Herzegovinian Islamic Center of New York (BHICNY) press release condemning a brutal assault on their Imam. This incident, which occurred on September 8th, serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining the safety and security of our community. BHICNY rightly calls for improved cooperation, response times, and increased police patrols to ensure that our places of worship remain sanctuaries of peace.

Turning to the larger context of public safety policies, it is essential to emphasize that the safety and well-being of our residents are paramount. Concerns have been raised regarding what some perceive as "soft on crime" policies advocated by Ms. Caban. These concerns stem from the belief that these policies may inadvertently compromise the safety of our community members, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

While criminal justice reform is a necessary and worthy endeavor, we must approach it with careful consideration. Balancing reform with accountability is critical to ensure that our neighborhoods remain secure. An effective approach involves collaboration with community stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, and the judicial system to address the root causes of crime while holding individuals accountable for their actions. Ms. Caban has done none of this.

It is essential to recognize that advocating for reform does not inherently equate to a disregard for public safety. We can, and should, strive for policies that both support effective policing and address the systemic issues that contribute to criminal activity. Kelly Klingman is committed to finding solutions that prioritize community engagement, support law enforcement efforts, and offer rehabilitation and reintegration resources where appropriate.

In these challenging times, our community should be a place where open dialogue is encouraged, and concerns are addressed constructively. Kelly Klingman believes in fostering an environment where all voices are heard, where we can openly discuss policies that affect our lives, and where our community remains a safe and vibrant place for everyone.

In conclusion, the recent incident at BHICNY underscores the importance of community safety and the need for timely responses from law enforcement agencies. While we engage in conversations about criminal justice reform, let us remember that our collective goal is to ensure the well-being of all residents. By working together, we can strike a balance that safeguards our community and addresses the broader issues at hand.