A meeting was planned before the Orlando attacks to talk about a possible LGBT community center for the five surround counties.
While they are talking about that proposal, the community is also coming together to remember those killed and injured in Orlando.
9&10’s Cody Boyer continues our coverage on the Orlando attacks as Traverse City’s community reacts to the terror attack.
Regardless of Sunday’s horrific tragedy, members of the LGBT community are coming to a town hall forum to discuss the possibility of a future LGBT community center.
The mayor and chief of police say the reality of the fear has sent ripples through the city.
"It’s just not right. 50 people should not be murdered when they are out in a safe place, enjoying themselves," says Mayor Jim Carruthers
A night of darkness, of violence and of terror, it is a scene sending chills as far as Traverse City.
Openly gay Mayor Jim Carruthers says it goes well beyond the LGBT community as well.
"It was a very sad event for us to all learn of the tragedy in Orlando this weekend. 50 people murdered. 50 some odd people still in the hospital in critical condition," says Mayor Carruthers. "It’s a scary time. It’s a frustrating time."
Fear and frustration that Traverse City chief of police Jeff O’Brien says is too real.
"We really are coming to a point in our culture where we really need to change something real fast," says Chief of Police Jeff O’Brien.
This weekend, the LGBT organization "Locally Up North Pride" is planning an event.
The mayor says protection is key.
"With the help of the city manager and the chief of police, we decided that we would put extra police out there at events just to make sure that citizens know that they are protected and feel safe," says Carruthers.
"The police department is here. And the police department will serve them, make sure that their event goes off safe," says O’Brien.
An effort for safety that will not be stopped by terror.
"We are a safe community, we want to protect people, we support diversity and we WILL protect people,” says Carruthers.
The meeting Monday night at Kirkbride Hall also has an added police presence, much like similar events all across the country.
Another meeting is planned later this week to discuss Saturday’s parade.
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