CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Charlottesville Police Department is set to host a series of community meetings titled Let’s Talk! Public Safety Technology and Community Conversations, aimed at discussing the integration of technology in law enforcement. These meetings, scheduled to begin on November 9, 2026, will provide a platform for residents and police officers to engage in open dialogue about technology’s evolving role in enhancing public safety.
As technological advancements continue to influence law enforcement practices, the meetings will address both the opportunities and challenges they present. City officials stressed the importance of community involvement in shaping how technology is utilized to ensure public safety. Participants will have the chance to ask questions, share their views, and learn about the current and potential future use of technology by the police department.
The Police Civilian Oversight Board (PCOB) recently sent a letter to the City Council indicating support for technological tools that can assist the department in evidence-based policing. This initiative builds on the department’s previous presentations to both the PCOB and the City Council, focusing on the need for dialogue around the use of public safety technology.
Police Chief Michael Kochis emphasized that community voices are essential in discussions about public safety technology. “Technology is changing how communities approach public safety, and those conversations must include those in our community most affected by it,” he said. “Let’s Talk! is a chance to listen, learn, ask questions, and work through these issues together.”
Residents are encouraged to attend any of the upcoming meetings, where discussions will address three main topics:
- What technology does the department currently have and use?
- What technology is available but not in use?
- What gaps and needs does the department identify in its technological resources?
The first meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Velocity Urgent Care (Community Room, 920 E High St), with an option for virtual attendance. Other meetings will take place on subsequent days and locations, culminating in a session on Wednesday, January 13, 2027 at the Fry Springs Neighborhood Association.
Community members are invited to participate and share their insights as the Charlottesville Police Department seeks to strengthen trust and transparency with the community it serves.
