Protest groups hold morning news conference protesting Atlanta Public Safety Training Facility

ATLANTA — Even before 8 a.m., protesters opposing the Atlanta Public Safety Training Facility were lining up.

Channel 2′s Steve Gehlbach was at City Hall, watching as the groups pushing back on the facility’s plan before the city council’s vote started going in a little before 10 a.m.

First, different organizations, including the Young Democrats of Georgia, and various elected Democratic leaders, held a news conference and delivered a letter opposing the facility.

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As hundreds lined up to enter City Hall to speak to city council members, a group representing the Young Democrats of Georgia spoke on the steps in front of City Hall.

“We have grave concerns with the environmental impact, and moreover, the financial impact that this project will cost the people of Atlanta,” Bryce Berry, president of the Young Democrats of Georgia said.

Other members of the organization also spoke on the hall’s steps.

DeKalb County Commissioner Ted Terry weighed in, speaking against the facility.

“Today is a good day to fight the system everyone,” Terry said.

He represents the area of DeKalb the facility is in and wants to protect the South River forest and Watershed.

“They have endured the impacts of pollution, borne the burden of health issues directly linked to this type of contamination,” Terry added.

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Channel 2 Action News asked those gathered about the protests turning violent, such as when activists threw rocks, fireworks, and other objects at police officers, smashed windows and set fire to a police car and construction equipment.

“We as Young Democrats condemn any form of violence but we recognize the importance of peaceful protest,” said Royce Mann, a member of the Young Democrats.

The organization said they stand with the protesters but said they don’t want their movement painted as violent, due to the actions of a few.

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RELATED NEWS:

Atlanta City Council hearing from hundreds as they weigh training center funds The Atlanta City Council is prepared to vote Monday on a $67 million funding bill for the controversial center.

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