Public Calls For Alternatives To Increased IMPD Budget

The Indianapolis City-County Council held a full meeting Monday night and there was extensive public testimony about one budget item.  

Over two hours of written and in person public testimony expressed a desire for spending less policing and more support for social services. 

Clerk of the Council SaRita Hughes read a majority of the statements including that of resident Linda Young. 

"Reduce IMPD budget and redirect funds to the community via housing and social services. Police should not take up 30 percent of funds exclusively," Young wrote. 

The budget proposal under consideration includes more than $260 million for the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, an increase of more than $7 million over last year's budget.  Other testimony called for investment in mental health services, food assistance, homeless services and other basic needs. 

Resident Rachel Hubbard's testimony asked for no increase to the IMPD budget. 

"2020 has shown us the IMPD has spent more than enough money on their toys," Hubbard wrote, "It’s time that taxpayer money benefits the people of the community."

Budgets ordinances for IndyGo and other municipal corporations were also on the agenda. The council also passed appropriations for a neighborhood public arts program.

The final budget passage is expected in October.