SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP, Ohio — The need for more officers in Springfield Township is now coming on wheels.
In 2022, voters passed a levy to have more patrol around the township. A resident said the decision came directly from community input and involvement.
"I actually sat in on some of the meetings. There's a police advisory board that I sit on as well, and it's been amazing. The response from the community to vote and recognize that our city needed protection was amazing. And they've done wonderful things ever since the levy took force," said Lorrie Weekley, a Springfield Township resident.
It was a benefit to the community Weekley said was necessary. Now, those across the community are seeing the fruits of those benefits.
In July, the township launched their bike patrol program. To celebrate, officers hosted an ice cream social. But kids won't be the only ones enjoying time with the new team.
"We want to bring out some new things. We had a couple of residents say, 'We hadn't seen police on bikes in this area in about 20 years,' so, that's a win for us, and it's a win for the community," said community service officer Miquael Warren.
Warren said the department is looking to connect with the community through events.
"You get a little more intimate with the community, as opposed to being in a patrol car. You're out and about, you're able to stop and talk," said Warren. "The bike is less intimidating to community members."
Weekley said the bike patrol is working to connect police with the community - and break stigmas.
"I think our kids nowadays are kind of intimidated or scared of the police. So I think this is a really good way for them to realize that we do live in a safe community. We do have the support of Officer Warren and the community," Weekley said. "I think the community's getting exactly what we were promised. With the security, with the community resources. Prior to the levy, none of this went on for our kids."
Warren shared a similar sentiment.
"I love it, it's very rewarding because at the end of the day, I know that I've touched a few people. Especially with the way the world works and how policing is right now, we want to continuously restore that police legitimacy."
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