DeKalb residents faced frightening times with the recent gang-related homicide last week.

At least they came away feeling a little less helpless after attending Wednesday’s town hall meeting.

More than 500 people attended the event at the Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. Second St., to discuss last week’s shooting and gang issues.

The meeting was held after the murder of DeKalb resident Jayson Martin, 19, last Tuesday. DeKalb police said they believed gangs were involved.

School district officials discussed security issues and policies regarding gangs at DeKalb High School. City police described how to spot and deal with gang culture. Others spoke about the need for involved parenting to discourage gang affiliation in youths.

The meeting was a good example of how open communication is the best way to handle a major crisis. Without it, rumors would eventually abound and panic would ensue.

By openly addressing the issue, officials offered helpful advice on how to solve the problem. More importantly, they reminded concerned parents and residents that they can help fight gang activity and make their community safer.

What’s more is that many residents appeared willing to take on the responsibility.

DeKalb resident Bennetta Stearnes said it best.

“Information is power and we need to arm ourselves with as much as we can so maybe we can solve some issues,” Stearnes said.

That’s not to say residents’ and officials’ jobs are over.

Just as it would be foolish to think a gang presence came to DeKalb overnight, it would be just as dangerous to assume the problem can be solved in the short span of time.

This is something that will likely take years of dedication and openness — along with many more town hall meetings — to resolve.