FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 2, 2026
Statement from Brian Steel, President, Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Today, members of Columbus City Council and the Columbus Safety Collective Campaign announced updates regarding a proposed charter amendment for alternative crisis response that is expected to appear on the May 2026 primary election ballot.
As community expectations evolve regarding alternative crisis response, so too must law enforcement.
As President of the Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge #9; representing more than 4,700 dedicated law enforcement officers serving Franklin County, I am grateful to be part of the Safety Collective and engaged in these discussions about the future of public safety in our city.
Our officers respond to thousands of calls every year involving mental health crises, addiction, homelessness, and other complex social challenges. While law enforcement will always be prepared to respond when there is a threat to public safety, we recognize that not every situation is best resolved through traditional enforcement alone.
A thoughtful, well-structured alternative crisis response model — one that is properly funded, clearly defined, and coordinated with law enforcement — has the potential to improve outcomes for individuals in crisis while allowing officers to focus on violent crime and serious threats to our community.
Public safety works best when we collaborate. That means bringing elected officials, service providers, community advocates, and law enforcement professionals to the same table to develop solutions grounded in safety, accountability, and practicality.
Our priority remains clear: ensuring the safety of our residents while protecting the men and women who serve them. We look forward to continuing to work with City Council and community stakeholders as this proposal moves forward.
Brian Steel
President
Fraternal Order of Police
Capital City Lodge #9
