Akron City Council approves staffing study for police department improvements

In a recent City of Akron Council Committee meeting, discussions centered on a proposed staffing study for the police department, highlighting the need for a comprehensive evaluation of current resources and community expectations. The study aims to assess not only the number of personnel but also their deployment across various units within the department.

The proposal, which seeks authorization to move forward with a contract for the study, emphasizes the importance of community engagement. Council members expressed the necessity of understanding public expectations regarding police services, such as response times and the types of incidents officers should handle. This engagement will likely involve surveys or community meetings, although specific methods have yet to be determined.

Council members raised concerns about budget implications, questioning whether the $138,000 cost for the study was accounted for in the current budget. The police department has not conducted a formal staffing study since 2017, relying instead on internal assessments. The new study is expected to provide a detailed report within six months, offering recommendations based on best practices from similar-sized cities.

The discussions also touched on the potential for reallocating existing personnel rather than simply increasing staff numbers. This holistic approach aims to ensure that resources are effectively utilized to meet community needs. Council members emphasized the importance of gathering input from diverse community groups to ensure a balanced perspective on public safety issues.

As the city prepares to undertake this significant study, the outcome will likely shape the future structure and operations of the Akron police department, guiding decisions on staffing levels and resource allocation well into 2026 and beyond. The council's commitment to community engagement will be crucial in aligning police services with the expectations and needs of Akron residents.