VPD launches community questionnaire to help shape next strategic plan

We are developing our next Strategic Plan toguide our priorities and focus areas for the next several years. This plan will strengthen community safety, enhance trust, and ensure we continue meeting the needs of those who live, work, and visit Ventura.

We want to hear from you

Residents, business owners, and visitors are invited to take our Strategic Plan Community Questionnaire, available in both English and Spanish. The questionnaire is open through October 27, 2025 and gives stakeholders a direct role in shaping the our goals.

You'll be asked to:

• Share your views on safety in neighborhoods, schools, parks, commercial areas, and on roads.
• Rank the urgency of issues like traffic enforcement, homelessness and encampments, gang activity, narcotics, property crime, violent crime, and parking concerns.
• Offer new ideas or changes you think the department should consider, and what that might look like to you.

What is a strategic plan?

A Strategic Plan helps organizations set clear goals and align resources to achieve them. For us, it defines where we are going, how we will get there, and how we'll measure success. It also ensures our officers and staff have the tools, training, and support needed to serve effectively.

How the plan is developed

• Community input - Feedback from the questionnaire, stakeholder meetings, and conversations with residents, businesses, and partners.
• Employee feedback - Insights from our officers and staff who serve on the frontlines.
• Data and trends - Analysis of calls for service, crime patterns, staffing, and emerging challenges.
• Collaboration - Partnership with City leadership and regional law enforcement to align resources and improve outcomes.

Why Your Voice Matters

This plan isn't built by us alone. It must reflect the values and priorities of our community. By sharing your perspective, you're helping guide the future of public safety in our city. Together, we can create a plan rooted in safety, trust, and accountability for all.