Cincinnati · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cincinnati public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
UC Health Mobile Crisis Team recognition
Council honored the mobile crisis team's 40 years of mental health crisis response — now operating 24/7 in every police district, serving nearly 3,000 people this year.
Cincinnati Police Department Budget and Performance Goals
Seven council members want the administration to explain recent STARS crime data showing a dramatic spike in reported rapes and strangulations. A briefing is due to the Public Safety Committee within 30 days.
Chronic Nuisance Ordinance Review
A proposed update to city rules governing chronic nuisance properties remains stalled as community advocates and city leaders debate its potential impact on local businesses and vulnerable residents.
Domestic Violence and Non-Fatal Strangulation Trends
Council directed carryover funds to support safety upgrades at the regional domestic violence shelter and health screening programs.
Justice assistance grant for police overtime and advocacy services
Up to $274,735 in federal money would fund police visibility overtime and the sexual assault advocate contract with Women Helping Women.
Fire Department thermal imaging equipment
Councilmembers Johnson and Kearney want $225,000 of carryover money to buy thermal imaging gear for the fire department, but the motion was held rather than sent to Council.
Recognition of Retired Assistant Police Chief Ronald J. Twitty
The city honored retired Assistant Police Chief Ronald J. Twitty for his groundbreaking career in law enforcement and community leadership by passing a formal resolution and naming a street after him.
Supplemental Flood Relief Funding
The Army Corps-built flood control infrastructure along Mill Creek needs an operator with money. Without a funding agreement, the Conservancy District would dissolve and Cincinnati could inherit millions of dollars a year in maintenance obligations. The committee advanced a $1.5 million funding plan toward a long-term, multi-jurisdictional revenue solution.
Access to Free Period Products in Municipal Buildings
Council members advanced a motion requiring a comprehensive report on the availability and condition of free period product dispensers in municipal buildings and city-operated properties to ensure equitable access for employees and the public.
Neighborhood Health Disparities and Life Expectancy
City officials and health experts presented updates on lead exposure risks and prevention programs in Cincinnati children.
CPD Surveillance Technology and Data Privacy
Council will get a 30-day report on the city's cameras, drones and license plate readers and a draft ordinance setting limits on data sharing and storage — while several members stressed cameras must stay a strong crime-fighting tool.
Parking Facility Safety and Gun Thefts
The parking ordinance was held — small operators say the licensing crackdown with $10,000 fines forced one OTR lot to close, and members want a revised version with police chief input before voting.
Clifton Neighborhood Public Safety
The Cincinnati Police Department briefed the committee on safety measures and initiatives surrounding the Clifton and University of Cincinnati campus area.
Paid Organ Donation Leave for City Employees
Vice Mayor Kearney's motion pushes the administration to recommend extra funding for city employees who become organ or tissue donors — supporting workers who take on a major personal sacrifice.
Police Department Staffing and Mental Health Grants
Council approved applying for federal grants totaling over $6.5 million to hire 50 new police officers and fund officer wellness programs.
Price Hill Litigation and Community Updates
City officials provided updates regarding Second Avenue litigation and general neighborhood developments in Price Hill.
Port security and emergency preparedness grants
Federal and state grants will fund river surveillance cameras, night vision gear and a bomb robot for police and fire, plus public health preparedness planning.
Hate Crime Incident Procedures Update
City leaders are following up on how the administration tracks and responds to hate incidents and hate crimes. The committee requested a 30-day update on dashboard creation, reporting portals, and police procedure updates.
Public Safety Consulting
Cincinnati hired former U.S. Attorney Ken Parker as a public safety consultant to revamp local policing and community safety. It's a major leadership addition aimed at tackling crime and improving department strategies.
Graffiti Victim Protection and Code Enforcement
Council directed the administration to establish an amnesty program to assist property owners victimized by graffiti and explore solutions that do not penalize victims.
Regional Safety Complex Additional Funding Commitment
Council committed an additional $2 million toward the joint city-county police and sheriff training facility, conditioned upon detailed cost presentations.
Juvenile Justice Reform and Youth Rehabilitation
Angela Chang of the Hamilton County Public Defender's Office discussed how juvenile detention disrupts education and increases recidivism, urging investment in community alternatives and holistic defense.
Police Department Litigation
Another day, another police department drama in Cincinnati. A reinstated police captain is now suing the city and the former police chief, keeping local law enforcement leadership in hot water.
Street Takeovers and Stunt Driving Enforcement
Council is pushing back hard against reckless street takeovers after a chaotic weekend. They've ordered city officials to report back in 30 days with plans for heavier fines, vehicle impoundments of at least six months, and strict enforcement tracking.
Establishment and Initiatives of the Cincinnati LGBTQIA+ Commission
The newly formed LGBTQIA+ Commission updated the committee on its work, including advocating for inclusive policies, reviewing city anti-discrimination ordinances, and addressing state legislation.
Trauma Care and Emergency Medical Education ('Stop the Bleed')
UC Health representatives presented information on regional trauma and burn services and demonstrated critical bleeding control techniques for everyday citizens.
Gun Violence Prevention, Firearm Safety, and Suicide Prevention
The city and community partners are working together through a five-pillar strategy to address the root causes of gun violence and support youth.