Statement by Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh on Syracuse Common Council approval of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding today:
“The federal government urged communities to deploy ARPA funding to improve public safety, and the City of Syracuse has been acting on that priority. Working with the Common Council we have authorized pandemic relief to expand body-worn cameras, neighborhood street cameras and gunshot detection.
Today, (Nov.8) the Council approved a $90,000 expenditure for public safety and community engagement. It funds cultural competency and diversity training for our sworn officers, new recruits, and civilian staff. The program fosters a better understanding of different cultures, especially regarding conflict management, and helps create greater consistency in how the department handles investigations, stops and use of force. This training is an important investment in the people of our police department and our entire community.”
