Data transparency and community safety took center stage at the Phoenix City Council meeting on June 18, 2025, as council members emphasized the urgent need for improved data collection regarding police interactions. Councilwoman Hodge Washington led the charge, stressing that without reliable data, public trust in law enforcement efforts diminishes. "We can say we're doing all the things, but if we can't prove that we're doing the things, the community can't trust or believe that we are doing those things," she stated.

Hodge Washington proposed a detailed monthly reporting system to begin in September, which would track various metrics including citywide police stops, reasons for those stops, and outcomes, such as transfers to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO). She highlighted the importance of making this data accessible to the public to foster transparency and accountability.

The discussion revealed that while some data collection is currently limited, the city is in the process of implementing a new Records Management System (RMS) that aims to enhance data capabilities significantly. The new system is expected to go live later this year and will include 29 interfaces to facilitate better data sharing across various departments.

Council members expressed a collaborative spirit, with Vice Mayor and other council members requesting to be included in discussions about data needs. The commitment to improving data collection and transparency reflects a broader effort to ensure community safety and trust in law enforcement practices.

As the city prepares for the new RMS, the council's focus on data collection could lead to more informed decision-making and a stronger relationship between the police and the community they serve.