COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The leader of Columbus’ largest police union voiced his support on Monday for a proposed city charter amendment that would expand alternative crisis response programs, signaling a collaborative shift in how the city handles emergency calls involving mental health and addiction.
Brian Steel, president of Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Capital City Lodge #9, released a statement following an announcement from Columbus City Council and the Columbus Safety Collective Campaign regarding the initiative, which is expected to appear on the May 2026 primary election ballot.
The proposal seeks to formalize and fund models that dispatch social workers or medics to certain non-violent calls instead of traditional law enforcement.
“As community expectations evolve regarding alternative crisis response, so too must law enforcement,” Steel said.
Steel, who represents more than 4,700 officers in Franklin County, noted that police currently respond to thousands of calls annually rooted in homelessness, mental health crises, and substance abuse. He argued that a “thoughtful, well-structured” model could improve outcomes for those in distress while freeing up officers to focus on violent crime.
The union’s endorsement of the discussion marks a significant step for the Safety Collective, a coalition of elected officials, service providers, and advocates. Steel emphasized that for the program to be successful, it must be properly funded and clearly coordinated with existing police operations.
“Public safety works best when we collaborate,” Steel said. “Our priority remains clear: ensuring the safety of our residents while protecting the men and women who serve them.”
The specific language of the charter amendment is still being finalized.