Update on Indy – August 31, 2025: Sparking the Conversation: Public Safety Reform, and Indy’s Future
- Michael-Paul Hart
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
By Councilor Michael-Paul Hart
Working to Make Indianapolis the Smartest City in America
Public Safety Reform: Sparking the Conversation
This month, I introduced three public safety reform proposals aimed at making our city safer. While none received a “due pass” recommendation in committee, each sparked serious discussion, something that hasn’t happened in years. That’s progress in itself, and it shows that we can push important conversations forward even without immediate passage.
Here’s where things stand:
🏠 Residency Requirements
I introduced a proposal to eliminate the outdated residency requirement that forces many city employees to live inside Marion County. This rule has made it harder to recruit top talent—especially for positions like public defenders and specialized roles.
Democrat Councilor Nick Roberts supported my proposal, and I’m grateful for his open-mindedness.
Councilors Dan Boots and Maggie Lewis acknowledged changes are needed, though they disagreed with my approach.
Chief Public Defender Raymond Casanova testified in support, highlighting an unfair imbalance: prosecutors can live outside the county, but public defenders cannot.
This conversation isn’t over. There’s momentum to reform the out-of-county exemption process, and I’ll keep pushing for parity and fairness.
👨👩👧 Parental Accountability & Curfew Fines
I also introduced a proposal to hold parents more accountable when their children are repeatedly caught breaking curfew.
Democrat Councilor Dan Boots voiced support and voted. In favor, thank you, Councilor, for your leadership.
Some opponents claimed the measure was discriminatory. My response remains clear: “We cannot ignore juvenile violence, and parents must be part of the solution.”
Watch my response:
To continue this conversation, I’ve invited James Taylor, Director of Student and Social Services in Warren Township, to testify at the October 22nd Public Safety Committee meeting on the direct connection between truancy and youth crime.
📋 General Orders Board Reform
Perhaps the most impactful proposal I introduced was to restructure the General Orders Board. Right now, critical policy decisions for IMPD are bogged down by a board that sometimes can’t even meet quorum.
My plan would have:
Made the board advisory instead of binding.
Restored authority to the Chief of Police—appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Council—to issue and amend general orders.
Preserved civilian oversight through non-binding recommendations.
This proposal failed in committee across party lines. But it raised awareness, and I’ve already heard from State leaders who are concerned about how Marion County is handling police oversight. This discussion is moving to a higher level—and it started here in Indianapolis because I raised the issue.
Budget Update: Where We Stand
We’re now just past the halfway point of public hearings on the 2026 City-County budget. Each week, committees are reviewing different agencies, and the Council will soon begin shaping amendments.
If you’d like to follow the full schedule of presentations and hearings, I’ve broken it down here:
I’m focused on accountability, transparency, and making sure every taxpayer dollar is used wisely. While others may be content with business as usual, I’m committed to asking tough questions and offering practical solutions to keep Indy on a strong financial path.
This is how we build a smarter, stronger city.
🧠 Why This Matters
I know the math: I’m one of only a few voices in the minority. But that doesn’t mean new ideas don’t matter. In fact, it’s my responsibility to introduce them, spark debate, and force tough conversations.
That’s what I’ll continue to do—bring your ideas forward, challenge the status quo, and push Indianapolis toward becoming the Smartest City in America.
Thank you for reading and for supporting common‑sense leadership. Together, and with the community driving accountability, we are turning bold ideas into real‑world results.
Accountability, Transparency and Local Leadership
See you next week with more updates from the Neighborhood.
