Philadelphia police are developing a new public safety plan with input from the community.

Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel has announced significant progress in formulating a comprehensive five-year strategic plan designed to reshape community policing in Philadelphia. This initiative, which he describes as a pioneering effort for the department, has gathered input from over 200 stakeholders, including police personnel, community members, and youth impacted by the criminal justice system. The strategic plan aims to be completed shortly after the New Year.

During a recent press conference attended by Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and other officials, Bethel emphasized the importance of community involvement in the development of public safety policies. Historically, police strategies have often been crafted in isolation without substantial input from the communities they serve, leading to a disconnect between law enforcement and residents’ expectations and needs. Bethel underscored the necessity for trust and engagement, stating that genuine community investment in public safety plans is only achievable when residents see their reflections within those strategies.

While the commissioner refrained from disclosing detailed elements of the forthcoming plan, he noted that it would build upon a 100-day public safety initiative he had previously implemented at the mayor’s request. Key aspects of this new strategic framework will include enhancements to officer training and wellness programs and a clearer definition and operational model for community policing. Bethel expressed the need to critically examine whether the approach is genuinely “community policing” or merely “policing the community,” highlighting the ongoing need for a thoughtful analysis of these concepts.

David Zega, appointed by Bethel to spearhead this initiative, is currently drafting the foundational elements of the strategic plan. Zega has been engaging stakeholders since May, and a preliminary draft is anticipated to be ready by January. He also encouraged Philadelphia residents to contribute their perspectives through an accessible survey.

The context for Bethel’s strategic plan is notably distinct, as Philadelphia is projected to record its lowest homicide rates in 50 years this year. With homicide and shooting clearance rates at historic highs, the city is experiencing a transformative shift away from previous years characterized by rampant gun violence. Moreover, for the first time since 1979, Philadelphia has emerged as no longer the poorest major city in the United States, signaling broader socioeconomic improvements that may influence public safety initiatives.

The evolution of public safety strategies represents a crucial step in fostering a collaborative relationship between law enforcement and the community, particularly as the city grapples with its changing dynamics. This strategic plan promises a fresh approach to community policing, driven by resident engagement and a commitment to building trust.

As discussions continue, stakeholders and residents alike are invited to partake in shaping the future of policing in Philadelphia, reflecting the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance in addressing the complex challenges of public safety.

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