Announcing the Formation of the Newcastle City Council Public Safety Ad Hoc Committee

In response to rising concerns about public safety in Newcastle and the surrounding areas, we are proud to announce the formation of the Newcastle City Council Public Safety Ad Hoc Committee. Chaired by Councilmember Steve Tallman, this committee is our proactive step towards enhancing community safety and engagement.

About the Committee

An ad hoc committee is a temporary group formed specifically to address particular issues until they are resolved. The Newcastle City Council Public Safety Ad Hoc Committee consists of community members from diverse backgrounds and will work closely with the Newcastle Police Department/ King County Sheriff's Office, judicial partners, local businesses, Homeowner Associations (HOAs), apartment and condo complexes, block watches, and the general public.

The committee will meet once a month to address concerns and identify areas of opportunity to enhance services and make targeted recommendations to the Council that support our overarching goals of community safety.

Committee Members

The City of Newcastle thanks our volunteers for their commitment to our wonderful city. All members are passionately dedicated to serving our community and its top priority: public safety.

• Amber Elam
• Elizabeth Widseth
• Kirie Tsuchida
• Len Trautman
• Philipp Schmidt-Pathmann
• Steve Tallman - Chair

Our Mission

"The mission of the Newcastle City Council Public Safety Ad Hoc Committee is to discuss and address issues related to community safety. The committee will bring forward recommendations in support of those goals. This work will be done in collaboration with the police and fire departments, commissions, key stakeholder groups, community members, HOAs, and block watches. Ensuring our community is safe is one of the top priorities of the City Council. This Committee is dedicated to bringing the community together where all feel safe, supported, and engaged."

Challenges and Opportunities

One significant challenge we face is the prevalence of unreported crime. Unreported crime can undermine our efforts to fully understand and combat safety issues effectively. In alignment with the national "See Something, Say Something" campaign, we urge community members to report suspicious activities or concerns. Proactive community engagement is crucial for our success.

Together, we can make Newcastle a safer place for all.

For more information about the committee, please email Councilmember Steve Tallman at [email protected]

***Page Updated 6/11/2024***