Our Police & Fire Departments are staffed by individuals who take pride in their work and the services they provide.   They perform challenging and dangerous work – they deserve our respect and support.  I will advocate for the equipment, facilities, and training needed to perform their jobs safely and effectively.

While we have the same public safety challenges that every large city faces, we face a unique image problem that keeps perspective residents and businesses from investing in Springfield.  There is a perception, right or wrong, that our Downtown is not safe, and that our Police Department is damaged beyond repair.  I believe neither statements are true, but acknowledge the crisis they create.

21st century public safety policies require active adaptation to the needs of an increasingly diverse community that is struggling with mental health. I support the partnership between Behavioral Health Network and the Springfield Police Department to help ensure competent professionals are able to address mental health emergency calls.

The consent decree between the Department of Justice and the City of Springfield, and the reestablished Civilian Board of Police Commissioners are opportunities to restore trust and confidence in the Springfield Police Department in every neighborhood. New voices and ideas are required at the table to bridge the chasm and bring our city together - I have the unbiased perspective necessary to keep Springfield safe.

I will fight for continued modernization and training of our Police Department.  This will include ongoing investments in the C3 Community Police Initiative and the use of body cameras. 

Greater investments and grants are needed to ensure our firefighters have the resources needed to get smoke detectors into the homes of seniors, have appropriately sized oxygen tanks, and personal protective equipment that will reduce their risk of cancer.