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update: This article has been updated for context with additional quotes and information from Memphis Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Ted Townsend.
Memphis business leaders are asking for state help to solve the city’s crime problem.
On January 10, the Greater Memphis Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Circle submitted a letter to Governor Bill Lee’s office requesting assistance with a range of crime issues affecting the city’s business community.
Ted Townsend, president and CEO of the Memphis Chamber of Commerce, drove into Nashville on Tuesday night and joined Lee, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally and Tennessee’s Cameron Sexton on Wednesday morning. He said he had handed over the letter to the House Speaker’s office.
Townsend said all the councilors he spoke to Wednesday welcomed and appreciated the chamber’s initiative to move these issues forward.
“They understand the importance of Memphis to the state’s economy,” he said. “This is not partisan. We all understand the importance of a safe Memphis.”
Ryan Poe, communications director for the Memphis Chamber of Commerce, said the Chairman’s Circle has submitted similar letters to the state asking for public safety assistance in recent years.
“As business and community leaders, trust in our local public safety systems has reached an unsustainable low. Crime is impacting our neighbors, customers, employees, and investors. Tennesseans You have the right to feel safe buying your groceries, getting your gas and going to work. Our communities need your direct intervention,” Townsend said in the letter.
In the letter, which was supported by more than 30 Chairman’s Circle members, including Richard Smith, President and CEO of FedEx Airlines & International, the Chamber of Commerce said: called for improvements to the state’s sentencing laws and an increase in the number of criminal jury trials. Shelby County cases, financial assistance for the Shelby County Public Defender’s Office, enhanced charges against stolen firearms and drag racing, and $50 million in aid to improve security in tourist zones.
Townsend said in the letter that the call to action could help protect the $3 billion in capital investments already made in Shelby County.
“We have more than $3 billion in local capital projects in the planning process, and tens of thousands more employees are asking for your intervention. Shelby County has become a model for the nation, providing the best in entertainment, distribution, and We can restore our world-renowned reputation as a hub for industry, health care, and technology. Your leadership and support are needed now more than ever.”
In a phone call Wednesday, Townsend said the chamber hopes to secure $50 million in block grant funding, but has not outlined a predetermined location for the “tourism zone.” Stated.
“We know that downtown is important to the overall development of Memphis,” he said.
Townsend said improving public safety downtown is paramount, especially as downtown prepares to host high-profile events such as the opening game of the 2024 NCAA March Madness men’s basketball tournament. .
“We are very encouraged by the level of cooperation from all the businesses (in the Chamber and Chair Circle),” he said. “Every business is affected by these issues.”
Memphis Mayor Paul Young has regularly called for a “pandemic-level” response to crime in the city and continues to support Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis. (Memphis City Council continues to consider Davis’ possible appointment.) The Young administration is also creating a special advisor to the mayor on public safety.
Townsend acknowledged that the letter outlines several elements to improve public safety and awareness and can serve as a starting point for change and improved partnerships with the province. However, he said this is a complex issue that requires multiple solutions and strategies, including strengthening economic mobility, which is a core focus of the Chamber.
“Memphis is the next great investment opportunity, not just in the Southeast, but in the United States,” said Townsend.
Neil Stbig is a journalist at Commercial Appeal. You can contact him at: neil.strebig@commercialappeal.com901-426-0679 or via X: @neilstbig
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