The Oshkosh Common Council held a budget workshop on October 28, 2024, focusing on the proposed operating budget for the Oshkosh Police Department for 2025. Chief Smith presented key initiatives and challenges faced by the department, emphasizing the importance of staff development and training in law enforcement.

Chief Smith introduced his team, highlighting the roles of his office and business manager, as well as captains overseeing operations, administration, and investigations. He outlined the department's commitment to training, which includes mandatory sessions on de-escalation, implicit bias, and crisis intervention, among others. The Chief noted that the department exceeds the state requirement of 24 hours of training per officer annually, aiming to provide the highest level of service to the community.

The workshop also addressed the department's ongoing efforts to engage with youth through programs like the Youth Leadership Academy, which pairs high-performing teens with those seeking guidance. This initiative aims to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on homelessness and mental health issues. Chief Smith reported a 59% increase in calls for service related to homelessness from the previous year, indicating a pressing need for dedicated outreach. The proposed budget includes funding for a homeless outreach officer and a social worker to assist individuals in navigating available resources. The Chief emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach, involving community partners to develop effective solutions.

The Chief also discussed the rise in white-collar crimes, particularly fraud cases targeting seniors and businesses. He noted a 7.9% increase in reported fraud cases in 2024, highlighting the need for additional resources to address these crimes effectively.

Throughout the meeting, the Chief underscored the challenges of staffing, stating that 97% of the police budget is allocated to personnel and fleet costs. He expressed the need for additional officers to alleviate the burden on current staff, who are often required to work overtime due to staffing shortages.

The council members engaged in discussions about the proposed budget enhancements, including the addition of a sergeant position to oversee the homeless outreach program. They expressed support for the Chief's initiatives and acknowledged the importance of addressing homelessness and mental health in the community.

In conclusion, the workshop highlighted the Oshkosh Police Department's commitment to training, community engagement, and addressing pressing social issues. The council will continue to evaluate the budget proposals and consider the necessary resources to support the department's initiatives in the coming year.