BUFFALO, NY (WKBW) — Kaisertown residents gathered on Tuesday night at the Autumnwood Senior Center for a public meeting organized by the Kaisertown Coalition.
The community came together to voice its deep concerns about the state of its neighborhood, particularly recent incidents that have impacted quality of life.
One of the most pressing issues discussed was a series of window-smashing incidents along Clinton Street.
I previously spoke with business owners about the incidents. You can watch our previous report below and read more here.
On December 27, 2024, Buffalo police announced an arrest was made. 40-year-old Leroy Scott was charged with one count of second-degree criminal mischief and one count of third-degree criminal mischief. Police said additional charges were expected.
Local business owner Cindy Lawson spoke candidly about her experience, noting that after her storefront was targeted with rocks not once but twice, stating action from police was slow.
“In September, the police knew about it. In October, they knew about it. In November, nothing was being done. It wasn’t until it escalated and started hitting 2 or 3 businesses a night that they finally took action,” Lawson recounted.
Another business owner, Elisabeth Von Hahn, spoke before the meeting, saying the police had failed her after her business was hit with rocks twice in one week.
"My taxes pay those politicians salaries, so I believe all those politicians owe me answers, and that's why we're here," said Von Hahn.
Residents expressed their frustration over feeling neglected by law enforcement and city leaders.
I asked Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon if the residents feeling left behind by leadership had any reason to feel that way.
“I am the mayor of the City of Buffalo, and I represent every district, whether it’s north, south, east, or west. We will come out for the same response no matter the issue," said Mayor Scanlon.
Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia, community officers, and Council member Bryan Bollman joined the mayor, who announced measures to increase police visibility on Clinton Street. The initiatives include more sidewalk patrols and the installation of police cameras.
Council member Bollman emphasized the effectiveness of the block club in addressing community concerns.
“This block club is effective in a sense where we have our community police officer, and we solve problems in this club and this community," said Bollman.
For Lawson, the meeting offered a glimmer of hope.
"I just find pure joy in the community coming together to get resolution,” Lawson said.
Lawson and other residents are eager to see positive changes and ensure their voices are heard in the ongoing discussions about security and community well-being in Kaisertown.
The Kaisertown Coalition meets every month.
