The City Council of Indianapolis convened on August 13, 2025, to discuss various public safety and criminal justice initiatives, with a focus on addressing budgetary constraints and enhancing support for self-representing individuals in the legal system.

A significant topic of discussion was the role of navigators who assist individuals representing themselves in legal matters. Council members expressed concern about the workload faced by these navigators and explored potential solutions to alleviate this burden. One suggestion included partnering with local colleges and universities to establish an internship program. This initiative could provide students with valuable experience while helping to manage the case load of navigators.

Council members noted that law school externs currently assist with certain functions, and there is potential to include undergraduate interns for administrative tasks. This approach could not only support the navigators but also offer students practical experience in the field.

The meeting highlighted the importance of innovative solutions to meet the needs of the community while adhering to budgetary limitations. The council's willingness to explore partnerships with educational institutions reflects a proactive approach to enhancing public safety and legal support services in Indianapolis. Further discussions and planning are expected as the council continues to address these critical issues.