“As friends and fellow mayors, we write to you in this hour of tragedy with the deepest of sympathies for the Dayton community. We know words alone won’t ease the pain of this horrific event, but we hope to provide some comfort through this expression of solidarity,” the letter said.
“Just a few short months ago, Dayton came together after it had been rocked by a series of devastating tornadoes. In the face of another heart-wrenching tragedy, we know Dayton’s unconquerable spirit – with your leadership – will shine through yet again.”
The letter also praised “the inspiring courage” of Dayton’s law enforcement officers.
“We would like to recognize the inspiring courage of your law enforcement officials, whose quick action undoubtedly prevented the loss of even more innocent lives. We would also like to recognize your leadership throughout these trying times. You have been rock and a steadfast leader for your community and the entire Dayton-region. You have represented the Ohio mayors well and we are so proud to call you our friend and our colleague,” the letter said.
The coalition told Whaley that her fellow mayors “pledge to do whatever we can to support you and the Dayton community in this time of grief and the search for answers to this senseless tragedy. Over the years, many of our communities have been impacted by gun violence and we refuse to accept that there are no reasonable policy solutions at the state and federal to help prevent the next mass shooting.”
The letter was signed by coalition board members that included Kettering Mayor Don Patterson, Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, Mayor Tim DeGeeter of Parma, Lancaster Mayor David Scheffler, and Mulligan.
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