Residents urge audit of Phoenix Next policing and question rise in police spending
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Summary
Public commenters at the Dayton City Commission meeting criticized the Phoenix Next policing program's visibility and effectiveness in Fairview and called for alternatives to increased police spending, while commissioners requested reports and said city committees receive Phoenix Next performance updates.
Residents raised pointed concerns about the Phoenix Next policing program and recent increases in police funding during public comment at the Dayton City Commission meeting.
Lynn Lemance of 1061 Bertram Avenue told the commission she had not seen Phoenix officers perform required foot patrols in Fairview, that officers did not attend a school "first responders" event in September and did not note recent robberies or a missing-persons case in the neighborhood. "Where is that documentation or proof? Officers will work closely with Fairview Elementary School. I can tell you I have never seen this," Lemance said, asking the commission to produce documentation of Phoenix Next activity.
Ebony Hastings of 1238 Wabash Avenue followed, listing several recent shootings and urging a holistic approach to violence that focuses on families, youth and services rather than increasing police presence. "The money that's being invested in the Phoenix police is a joke," Hastings said, and urged the city to ensure equipment and vehicles are maintained and that officers respond appropriately when lights and sirens are used.
Commissioner Terrence Lawson asked for copies of the Phoenix Next reports and noted the Phoenix Next committee, which includes city and Premier Health representatives, receives performance updates. City staff said they would request and distribute the reports to the commission as a follow-up. The city manager confirmed staff received the emailed complaints Lemance referenced and will respond.
What residents asked for: documented patrol logs and performance reports from the Phoenix Next program, a review of vehicle/response practices, and consideration of non-police interventions to address community violence. Commissioners said the city will seek follow-up reports and pursue a forthcoming violence-interruption initiative in the coming months.
Provenance: public comments and commissioner exchanges recorded during citizen-comment blocks and the budget presentation follow-up.
