Public safety

Cincinnati City Council must approve a budget with an estimated $29.5 million deficit in the general fund.

About $500,000 earmarked for wall stabilization and landslide correction will now go toward HVAC improvements at the police academy and roof repairs at the fleet garage.

The report describes Police Chief Teresa Theetge's leadership as "rigid and authoritarian," criticizes her communication, and says she struggles to accept accountability.

While all general fund departments have been asked to estimate a 5.1% cut to address a nearly $30 million deficit in the next city budget, that level of cuts is not likely for public safety.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine said it's not likely the state would send National Guard troops to places like Portland and Chicago where Trump is sending federal forces.

Cincinnati Council set new regulations for hookah lounges Wednesday following complaints of late-night street takeovers, fights, and shootings outside the establishments in Roselawn, Clifton, and elsewhere.

The Thursday event in Delhi Township is designed to gather feedback about public safety from residents.

Cincinnati Council's Budget and Finance Committee Monday voted to approve the funding for police overtime, new technology like police drones, and public outreach efforts including curfew centers for young people.

An agreement between Cincinnati and the Ohio Department of Public Safety will allow Ohio State Troopers to patrol areas in the city beyond state highways. In addition, the state will provide aviation law enforcement tools and special state investigators.

The plan would allocate $4.63 million for police officer overtime and recruitment efforts, plus technology like drones, license plate readers, and more public cameras.