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Gallego touts falling violent crime, new 911 center, civilian review and alternative response expansion
Summary
The mayor reported drops in violent crime and homicides, previewed a new 911 call center and described a civilian review board and reforms to police practices, alongside expansion of non‑police responses for certain 911 calls.
Mayor Kate Gallego said violent crime in Phoenix is down and that homicides are at their lowest level in more than five years. She announced the city will open a new 911 call center adjacent to City Hall that will support next‑generation 911 capabilities.
“We will open a new 911 call center in the tower next to City Hall,” Gallego said, adding that the facility was designed with input from city employees and AFSCME representatives to maximize effectiveness and staff support.
The mayor highlighted efforts to increase transparency and modernize police policies, noting the creation of a civilian review board of residents and the passage of reforms in September intended to improve data collection and interactions with residents. She credited Councilman Kevin Robinson for supporting the measures.
Gallego underscored a shift in response strategy: “Not every 911 call requires a response from a police officer,” and emphasized the city’s use of the fire department’s community assistance program as an alternative response for mental‑health and welfare checks. She said such models are intended to better serve vulnerable populations and free sworn officers for other duties.
The speech described policy changes and facilities but did not include ordinance texts or vote records in the address.
