MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) — Memphis Mayor Paul Young says he is open to utilizing the National Guard to assist the city with pressing challenges, including community beautification and homelessness, after observing how Washington, D.C., has deployed Guard members in similar roles.
Learning from Washington, D.C.
Mayor Young met earlier this week with Deputy Mayor Lindsey Appiah and Police Chief Pamela Smith in Washington, D.C. During their discussions, he learned how the National Guard has provided support to the capital city not only with law enforcement but also with community improvement and homelessness services.
“For Memphis, I choose to view this as an opportunity,” Young wrote in his weekly newsletter on Friday. “My commitment is to make sure every resource we receive strengthens our city, not just for today, but for the long term.”
Focus on Beautification
Young stressed that while he has not formally requested National Guard assistance, he sees the potential for Guard members to make the biggest difference in beautification efforts.
“We’re already investing heavily in this work: grass cutting, litter pickup, and graffiti removal,” Young explained. “Our Blight Zero teams and Community Enhancement Division are out daily clearing lots and tackling problem properties. And now, with additional hands and resources, we can scale that work — clearing more vacant lots, removing more trash, and restoring more blocks.”
The mayor emphasized that beautification is not just about appearances. “Clean streets are a crime prevention tool, an economic development strategy, and a morale booster all at once,” he said.
Addressing Homelessness
In addition to beautification, Young pointed to homelessness as another area where the National Guard’s involvement could provide valuable support. By supplementing local outreach and housing efforts, he believes the Guard could help the city better address the needs of its most vulnerable residents.
Memphis, like many urban centers, has seen growing concerns over homelessness and its impact on public spaces. Additional resources could provide relief to city departments already stretched thin by demand.
Commitment to Collaboration
Young also underscored the importance of bipartisanship in moving Memphis forward. He said the situation calls on him to “reach across the aisle” and work with Republican lawmakers in order to secure the resources and partnerships necessary to improve quality of life for residents.
His comments signal a willingness to look beyond political divisions and focus on practical solutions that can deliver results for Memphis.
Looking Ahead
While no formal plan is yet in place, Young’s remarks suggest that conversations around the National Guard’s role in Memphis will continue. For now, the mayor is positioning the idea as an opportunity to strengthen ongoing city initiatives, particularly in keeping neighborhoods clean and safe.
As the debate unfolds, residents will be watching closely to see how the city balances the use of local resources, community partnerships, and potential support from the National Guard in tackling challenges that touch every part of Memphis life.
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