The Buffalo City Community Development Committee convened on July 29, 2025, to address pressing community issues, particularly focusing on the ongoing addiction crisis affecting the Broadway Fillmore neighborhood. The meeting began with a roll call of attendees, both in-person and online, followed by public comments.

Chris Holly, a resident of 483 Peckham Street and representative of the Central Terminal Neighborhood Association, presented a heartfelt statement regarding the alarming rise in addiction-related incidents in the area. He highlighted the recent tragic events, including the death of his brother due to an overdose, and emphasized the need for a compassionate, multi-faceted approach to address addiction and its impacts on the community. Holly urged the Erie County Department of Health and the Buffalo Police Department to allocate resources to support health care and housing solutions for those affected by addiction, rather than relying solely on law enforcement.

Following Holly's remarks, Tim Stevens, a local business owner, also spoke, expressing his awareness of the challenges faced by the community and his willingness to collaborate with the committee to find effective solutions.

The discussions underscored the urgent need for a coordinated response to the addiction crisis, with a focus on health care and community support rather than punitive measures. The committee acknowledged the concerns raised and indicated a commitment to exploring potential resources and strategies to improve the situation in Broadway Fillmore.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed their appreciation for the community's input and reiterated their dedication to addressing the pressing issues highlighted during the session. Further actions and follow-up discussions are expected in future meetings as the committee seeks to implement effective solutions for the neighborhood.