The future of Fresno’s Advance Peace program hangs in the balance as city officials grapple with funding challenges. During a recent budget hearing at City Hall council members expressed their support for the program but acknowledged the need for creative solutions to secure its financial stability.
The program, which has been instrumental in curbing retaliatory gang violence, is at a crossroads following the loss of federal funding from the Trump administration last year. With the current budget cycle set
Advance Peace’s Impact on Fresno’s Public Safety
Aaron Foster the program manager for Advance Peace Fresno, presented a compelling case for the program’s continuation. He highlighted the program’s success in reducing violent crime and its role as a vital component of the city’s public safety apparatus.
Councilmember Mike Karbassi echoed Foster’s sentiments, praising the program’s effectiveness. “You’re part of our public safety apparatus,” Karbassi stated, emphasizing that Advance Peace “reduces violent crime.” The councilmember’s support underscores the program’s significance in Fresno’s ongoing efforts to enhance community safety.
A joint study conducted by UC Berkeley and UC Merced last year provided further evidence of Advance Peace’s positive impact. The study found that the program contributed to a 46% reduction in city gun violence, including both homicides and assaults, two years after its implementation. This substantial decrease in violent crime underscores the program’s potential as a cost-effective strategy for improving public safety.
The Search for Sustainable Funding
With the loss of approximately $2 million in federal funding, Fresno’s leaders are exploring alternative sources to support Advance Peace. Mayor Jerry Dyer a longtime advocate for the program, called on the Fresno county Board of Supervisors to “step up” and “do their part as well.” Additionally, Councilmember Miguel Arias suggested that the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission the nonprofit overseeing Advance Peace, contribute to the program’s operations.
Foster emphasized the need for $1 million per fiscal year to restore the program’s proactive intervention strategies. He stressed the importance of being “more proactive and less reactive” in addressing street-gang violence. The city’s ability to secure this funding will ultimately depend on Mayor Dyer’s revised budget proposal, which is expected to be presented on June 23.
The financial stakes are high, but the potential benefits are even greater. Research has shown that the cost of a single homicide can range from $2.4 million to $3 million. If Advance Peace Fresno prevents even one homicide per year, the program more than justifies its cost, making it a wise investment for the city.
The Road Ahead for Advance Peace
As Fresno’s leaders work to secure funding for Advance Peace, the program’s future remains uncertain. However, the overwhelming support from city officials and the compelling evidence of its effectiveness provide reason for optimism. With the revised budget proposal looming, all eyes are on Mayor Dyer and his administration to make the necessary decisions to keep Advance Peace afloat.
The coming days will be crucial in determining the program’s fate. If successful, Fresno’s efforts to secure funding for Advance Peace could serve as a model for other cities seeking to implement similar initiatives. In the meantime, the program’s advocates continue to push for its continuation, emphasizing the importance of proactive intervention in reducing violent crime and promoting community safety.
