The City of Fenton's Board of Aldermen meeting on December 19, 2024, highlighted several key issues affecting local safety and law enforcement, particularly as the community prepares for the new year.

One of the primary discussions centered around traffic enforcement and public safety. The police department reported a decrease in Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) incidents, attributed to a highway safety officer currently on family medical leave. Officials expressed optimism that enforcement efforts would increase once the officer returns, aiming to prevent accidents and ensure community safety.

In terms of traffic statistics, the police noted a decline in on-view radio assignments in the business district, with 586 assignments in November, down from 659 the previous month. However, this figure is still an increase from the same time last year. The department also addressed a calculation error in citation numbers due to a transition to a new mobile ticketing system, which has since been corrected. A total of 114 citations were issued in November, alongside 40 warnings.

The meeting also touched on the deployment of radar units to monitor speeding in various areas, including a stealth radar unit on Old Highway 141, where speeds exceeded the 30 mph limit. The police plan to enhance enforcement in these hotspots, particularly as community complaints about speeding have increased.

Crime statistics were another focal point, with the police reporting six crimes against persons in November, including domestic violence incidents. Notably, there were 46 property crimes, with shoplifting being a significant concern as the holiday season approaches. The police have adopted a stricter approach to shoplifting, opting for full custody arrests rather than issuing summonses, a strategy that has previously proven effective in deterring theft.

The meeting concluded with discussions about ongoing challenges, including staffing shortages and the need for collaboration with county police for additional support. As the new year approaches, the Fenton police department is committed to addressing these issues and enhancing safety measures for residents.