It all begins with an idea.

Reimagining Community Safety

Houston's public safety challenges demand innovation beyond traditional policing. With over 1,000 vacant police positions and 260,000 improperly suspended cases undermining trust, we need comprehensive reform (Texas Tribune, 2024). True safety comes from addressing root causes while ensuring accountability.

Our Holistic Safety Strategy

1. Mental Health First Response Expansion

Build on Houston's co-responder model:

  • Fund all 24 recommended Crisis Intervention Response Teams

  • Create civilian-led Mobile Crisis Units for non-violent calls

  • Establish 24/7 crisis stabilization centers in each quadrant

  • Partner with Harris County for seamless mental health services

Investment: $45 million annually Impact: Divert 25,000 calls from police to appropriate responders

2. Community Violence Intervention Program

Evidence-based violence prevention:

  • Fund 10 community organizations for violence interruption

  • Hire 100 credible messengers from affected neighborhoods

  • Hospital-based intervention for shooting victims

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy for high-risk individuals

Cost: $15 million annually Expected outcome: 30% reduction in shootings based on other cities' results

3. Youth Investment Initiative

Prevention through opportunity:

  • Summer jobs program for 10,000 teens annually

  • Year-round youth centers open until 10 PM

  • Expand Police Activities League to all neighborhoods

  • Restorative justice programs in schools

Funding: Reallocate 5% of police overtime budget Partners: Schools, nonprofits, businesses

4. Police Accountability and Transparency

Restore community trust through:

  • Independent investigation unit for officer misconduct

  • Mandatory body cameras with public access policy

  • Community oversight board with subpoena power

  • Quarterly neighborhood forums with command staff

Implementation: Year 1 ordinances and appointments Cost: $8 million for investigation unit and technology

5. Neighborhood Safety Infrastructure

Environmental design for prevention:

  • LED streetlight installation in all neighborhoods

  • Vacant lot cleanup and activation program

  • Business corridor security camera network

  • Safe routes to school improvements

Investment: $25 million bond program Timeline: Complete within 3 years