Madison Park Shooting: Lakewood City Council Proposes Changes

LAKEWOOD, OH — After an 18-year-old was hurt in a shooting at Madison Park on Tuesday evening, members of Lakewood City Council swiftly proposed improved safety measures for the park and city.

In a letter shared to social media, Councilperson Tom Bullock called for an expanded police presence at the park immediately, including having an officer at the park seven days a week during open park times. He also called for: adding cameras to the park, full-staffing of the neighborhood policing units, and an open dialogue with county officials to secure their support.

Councilperson John Litten also took to social media to outline legislation that would implement several safety changes in Lakewood. The proposal was drafted with the help of Council President Dan O'Malley and Councilperson Tristan Rader.

Read more: 18-Year-Old Hurt In Shooting At Madison Park

Here's what the legislation would do:

• Form a public safety task force to consider hiring a separate public safety director (Lakewood's mayor currently serves as public safety director in addition to her other roles.) Litten said city council would support both budgeting for the role in 2022 and seeking to fill the position in 2021.

"We understand this issue has been contentious in the past, and hope to depoliticize the matter via the use of this citizen board. This proposal is not to slight anyone, Mayor or Chief, but to utilize a tool available to us that exists in other communities," Litten wrote on social media.

• Consider ways to expedite training and hiring for all public safety positions.

"This does not mean acting recklessly or without concern for proper protocols, but if screening processes could be streamlined we feel this is important to filling vacancies and would welcome proposals on ways to do so, even if additional funds are required," Litten said.

• Develop succession plans for all key safety force positions at least one year in advance.
• Prioritize filling all ward community police officer roles.

"These roles have been a wonderful means for community members to connect and build relationships with our police department outside of actual safety concerns. If necessary, also adjust the hours to accommodate the highest rate of resident needs," Litten said.

• Consider adding more capacity to grow block clubs.

"While not a sole means to increased safety, we know that these groups are an essential ingredient," Litten noted.

In addition to the proposed safety changes, Councilpersons Tom Bullock and Tess Neff encouraged residents to attend Monday's 6 p.m. Public Safety Committee meeting.

"Gun violence in our parks is unacceptable, full stop. The risk of harm to children at sports practices is 1000 percent more unacceptable. We must take decisive action safeguard the public, especially in our parks," Bullock told Patch.

"It causes me immense sadness that there was a second shooting at Madison Park. I'm incredibly grateful only one person sustained a gunshot wound. Unfortunately, Lakewood is experiencing incredibly difficult times with respect to crime. People are scared and upset," Neff said. "It is critical we work together to support one another and our safety forces."

Councilperson Jason Shachner offered the following statement:

"I am saddened, horrified, and furious to learn that another shooting has occurred at Madison Park. Many of you have contacted me to share your concerns, fears, and recommendations on how to ensure that Lakewood remains a place where all feel welcomed and safe - thank you. I am heartened by the influx of engagement that has resulted from these events and am taking the time to carefully consider each and every recommendation I have received from community members.

Safety is at the very foundation of what makes Lakewood a place that we love and why so many aspire to live here. I will work tirelessly alongside my colleagues to restore your sense of security and ensure that you are included in the conversation to make our community stronger."