Monona Police Chief outlines traffic enforcement strategy during city council meeting

The Public Safety Committee of Monona, Wisconsin, convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss various pressing issues related to traffic safety and law enforcement in the community. The meeting highlighted significant statistics regarding traffic incidents and enforcement efforts, as well as ongoing initiatives aimed at improving public safety.

The committee began by reviewing traffic crash statistics for 2024, noting that Monona's crash rates are notably high for a community of its size. The discussions revealed that many traffic stops and citations issued by the police are linked to ongoing investigations, including follow-ups on hit-and-run cases and domestic violence incidents that originated in Monona but occurred elsewhere.

A key focus of the meeting was the introduction of a public-facing traffic dashboard, designed to provide residents with real-time data on traffic incidents and enforcement activities. This dashboard allows users to view detailed information about traffic stops, including the nature of the incidents and the demographics involved, enhancing transparency and community engagement.

The committee also addressed the challenges faced by law enforcement in monitoring high-traffic areas, particularly along the BeltLine and Highway 51. These locations have been identified as hotspots for crashes, prompting the police to conduct targeted enforcement operations. The chief of police emphasized the difficulties of safely monitoring these areas due to design flaws in the roadways and the limited resources available for consistent enforcement.

In response to community feedback, the police department is implementing designated enforcement zones to increase visibility and address specific traffic concerns in residential areas. This initiative aims to reassure residents that their safety concerns are being taken seriously while also providing a visible police presence.

Looking ahead, the chief of police proposed the potential hiring of a dedicated traffic officer to further enhance enforcement efforts. This proposal will be discussed with the new mayor, as the department seeks to explore staffing solutions that can effectively address traffic safety issues.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of data-driven approaches to traffic enforcement and the commitment of the Monona police to engage with the community in addressing public safety concerns. The committee plans to continue monitoring traffic trends and adjusting strategies to improve safety for all residents.