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"Gangs now are more mobile than ever," Salinas Mayor Dennis Donahue said. "Cities, especially small to mid-size ones, can't do it alone. We need to partner with other cities, state and the feds to stem the rising violence."
Donahue cited as an example the rising homicide rate in his city. "In six days, we had seven homicides. I consider this an attack on our community and citizens," he said.
Several mayors attending the conference said they were starting to get money specifically earmarked for gang prevention from the 2009 omnibus appropriations bill.
Santa Rosa councilmember Jane Bender said her city will receive $10,000.
Donahue said Salinas is expected to get some $2.5 million this year.
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