Public Safety Committee

Contacts

Kelly Ruhnke Chair
kruhnke@oakwoodhills.org

Mandy Bone Co-Chair
mbone@oakwoodhills.org

Monica Stokke Member
mstokke@oakwoodhills.org

Quick Links

Committees

Public safety in our village is rooted in neighbors looking out for one another and a strong partnership between residents, our Public Safety Committee and the Police Department. Our village is committed to maintaining a safe, peaceful and welcoming place to live and visit.

Our Police Department works closely with village leadership and the community to provide responsive, dependable protection while emphasizing prevention, preparedness and personal connection. Community events, outreach programs and open communication help strengthen trust and ensure that public safety remains a shared responsibility.

In a small village, safety is more than services—it’s about relationships, care for one another and a continued commitment to the well-being and values of our community.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee supports safe, accountable and effective public safety services in our community. Working collaboratively with Police Department leadership, the Committee provides feedback and recommends approval of the Police Department’s annual budget proposal and offers guidance to promote responsible and transparent operations.

The Committee also welcomes community input and supports events and outreach initiatives involving the Police Department that help build relationships, understanding, and trust. While it does not investigate individual incidents or manage daily operations, the Committee is committed to thoughtful oversight and responsible stewardship of public resources.

Our Role

Oversight and Accountability
The Committee oversees the policies, practices, and overall performance of the Police Department. Through regular review and reporting, it promotes transparency, ethical conduct and continuous improvement in public safety services.

Officer Vetting and Standards
The Public Safety Committee plays an important role in the recruitment and vetting of new officers to help ensure they meet high professional and ethical standards.

Budget Review and Resource Allocation
The Committee reviews and approves the Police Department’s budget to ensure public resources are used responsibly and effectively. Funding decisions are guided by public safety priorities, accountability measures and community needs.

Community Engagement
The Committee serves as a vital link between the community and the Police Department, listening to public concerns, encouraging input and ensuring public safety efforts reflect the community’s values. Beyond meetings and discussions, the Committee brings people together through fun, family-friendly events. These gatherings create opportunities for residents to connect with law enforcement in a relaxed, festive setting, building trust, friendships and a stronger sense of community.