The Lake Forest City Council made a significant decision during its regular meeting on May 20, 2025, approving a new law enforcement contract with the Orange County Sheriff's Department (OCSD) for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This contract, totaling approximately $22.7 million, represents a 6.45% increase from the previous year and includes the addition of one new deputy to enhance public safety.

Deputy City Manager Sean McGovern presented a detailed overview of the contract, highlighting the OCSD's effective service model, which has proven cost-efficient since Lake Forest's incorporation. The presentation included impressive statistics from 2024, such as a 30% increase in community service hours and a notable rise in parking citations, addressing long-standing resident complaints about street parking.

The council discussed the rising call volume and slight increase in response times, emphasizing the need for additional deputies to maintain safety standards as the city grows. The public safety ad hoc group recommended adding one deputy per year for the next two years to meet the demands of a growing population and increasing calls for service.

Council members expressed their support for the contract, acknowledging the OCSD's commendable performance and the importance of investing in public safety. The council's unanimous approval reflects a commitment to ensuring Lake Forest remains one of the safest cities in Orange County, with crime rates consistently below the county average.

As the city prepares for the upcoming fiscal year, the addition of a new deputy is expected to bolster law enforcement efforts, further enhancing community safety and responsiveness.