Subscribe

Public Safety is Paramount

Riley Mulinix supports maintaining a well-funded, well-trained police force in Norman, ensuring public safety and fostering trust between officers and the community.

The events of 2020 highlighted the challenges our police department faced, including staffing shortages and strained resources. Since then, the Norman Police Department (NPD), under the leadership of Chief Kevin Foster, has worked tirelessly to rebuild public confidence, improve recruitment, and implement advanced training in crisis prevention, de-escalation, mental health, and substance abuse. These efforts have set a new standard for community policing in Norman.

However, challenges remain. The Public Safety Sales Tax (PSST), initially enacted in 2008, has never generated sufficient funds to meet its intended goals. The city’s general fund has borne the burden of filling this gap, which is unsustainable. To ensure the safety and well-being of our community, we must expand and extend the PSST.

Why Riley Supports PSST Expansion

1. Improved Recruitment & Retention: The NPD must have the resources to recruit and retain highly trained, diverse officers who reflect the values of our community.
2. Enhanced Community Policing: Adequate staffing allows officers to respond promptly to calls, restore investigative capabilities, and strengthen partnerships with residents.
3. Critical Training Investments: Advanced training empowers officers to handle complex situations with professionalism and compassion.
4. Supporting Public Services: Departments like Norman Animal Welfare, overseen by the NPD, demonstrate the impact of proper funding by quietly excelling in their mission to serve the community.

A Vision for Public Safety

Riley envisions a city where public safety is a shared priority. With expanded PSST funding, Norman can provide officers with the tools they need to succeed while alleviating pressure on the general fund. This will enable the city to invest in other essential services without compromising safety.

“Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community,”

Riley says. “When we invest in our police force, we invest in Norman’s future.”

By working together to strengthen public safety, Riley Mulinix aims to build a safer, more connected Norman for all residents.