As part of the search process for the next Warrenville Police Chief, it was important to the City to include community feedback as we sought to identify the ideal candidate to fill this important role.
In September, the City sent out a five-question survey via Facebook and the City's website. The survey was open to the community for two weeks, and the City received 146 responses.
In addition to considering this information as part of the recruitment process, this feedback will be shared with the new Chief. The following trends emerged from the community's response, broken down by question:
Question 1: What are the three most pressing issues facing the City that the next Police Chief should address?
Respondents indicated their top concerns are:
* Burglaries/theft
* Stability and morale in the Police Department
* Police presence in the community/ public trust (tied)
In their comments, respondents expressed the need for police officers to receive more training on responding to mental health crises as well as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Community members also said they wanted more diversity represented in members of the Department. Several respondents also shared their concerns about speeding/driving/traffic violations and a perceived lack of enforcement.
Question 2: To what extent are you satisfied with the relationship between the police and the community?
More than 90 percent of respondents said they were satisfied with the relationship between police and the community.
Question 3: If dissatisfied, please tell us why.
In their comments, respondents indicated they would like to see the Police Chief and Department:
* Engage more with the community
* Be more visible when on duty
* Develop stronger relationships with people of color in the community
* Make the community aware of crime trends and how citizens can protect themselves
Question 4: What leadership qualities are most important for the new Police Chief to possess?
The majority of respondents mentioned integrity, followed by transparency/openness, accountability, and community concern.
In their comments, respondents said they want the new Chief to:
* Make sure police officers feel supported in their work
* Regularly meet and talk with residents
* Be open and welcoming to diverse groups in the City
Question 5: If you could change one thing, or offer one piece of advice to the next Police Chief, what would that be?
The common themes cited by many respondents included:
* Be more visible and active in the community
* Support police officers
* Increase police officer training in areas including DEI, de-escalation techniques, and responding to mental health crises
* Connect with citizens - adults and children - get to know them and listen to their concerns
* Enforce traffic laws for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians
Thank you for taking the time to participate in the survey and share your feedback.