During the Public Safety & Transportation Committee meeting on May 1, 2025, in Newton City, significant discussions centered around community policing and budgetary concerns for the police department. Chief Carmichael received commendations for his leadership and the department's commitment to community engagement, particularly through the community police academy.

Committee members expressed satisfaction with the police leadership team, highlighting the positive impact of Captain Divine and Lieutenant Henrikson. The focus on community policing was reaffirmed as a core value for both the department and the community.

Budget discussions revealed a notable increase in health insurance costs across departments, prompting questions about specific line items in the budget. One area of inquiry was the decrease in Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) contributions for police administration support, which was attributed to changes in employee health insurance enrollment. The committee was informed that OPEB budgeting is based on actual employees taking health insurance, which can fluctuate with departmental changes.

Additionally, the budget for police cruisers was confirmed at $400,000, ensuring that the department can maintain its fleet. The committee also inquired about ongoing initiatives related to 21st-century policing and the "1 Mind" campaign, with assurances that these goals remain a priority, including ongoing training for officers in crisis intervention and compliance with established standards.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing public safety through effective community policing and responsible budget management, setting a positive tone for future initiatives and community relations.