West Haven Council discusses funding public safety and possible new police department

The West Haven City Council convened on May 8, 2025, to discuss critical issues regarding public safety services and community growth. The meeting focused on the rising costs of public safety and the potential for the city to establish its own police department versus continuing its contract with the county sheriff's office.

The council began by addressing the increasing costs associated with public safety services, emphasizing that residents would ultimately bear these expenses. A key discussion point was whether residents preferred to maintain the current relationship with the county sheriff or transition to a city-run police department. Council members expressed the need for clarity in survey questions posed to residents, ensuring they understood the implications of their choices, particularly regarding potential cost increases.

Several council members highlighted the importance of framing the survey questions to reflect the reality that costs would rise regardless of the decision made. They proposed a straightforward question: whether residents would prefer a city police department or to continue with the county sheriff's office, with a follow-up question to gauge the reasons behind their preferences.

The conversation also touched on the feasibility of increasing law enforcement presence through the county, with discussions about the possibility of purchasing additional services from the sheriff's office. However, concerns were raised about the county's current staffing limitations and the potential costs involved in establishing a city police department.

In addition to public safety, the council reviewed questions related to the city's fiber internet service and community growth. They aimed to assess residents' awareness of the Utopia network and their satisfaction with current internet providers. The council also sought to understand residents' attitudes toward growth in the city, comparing current sentiments to those from three years prior.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for clear and concise survey questions that would effectively capture residents' opinions on public safety and growth, while also considering the financial implications of their preferences. The council plans to refine the survey questions and gather community feedback to inform future decisions regarding public safety services and city development.