Savannah’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement Faces leadership Change
Table of Contents
- 1. Savannah’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement Faces leadership Change
- 2. What Does John Bush Say?
- 3. How will Director Johnson IV ensure ONSE’s significant budget is well-spent and what priorities will guide his decisions?
- 4. Archyde Exclusive: A Conversation with ONSE’s New Director, jimmie H.Johnson IV
- 5. Meet Jimmie H. Johnson IV
- 6. A Fresh Outlook on Community Safety
- 7. Budget and Achievements
- 8. A Fresh Outlook – A Change of Pace?
- 9. Interactive: Your Thoughts Matter
The City of Savannah recently ended the employment of its first Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) Director,John Bush,amid allegations of violating “anti-harassment” and “code of conduct” policies. This comes as the ONSE,along with the Savannah Police Department (SPD) and Savannah Fire Department (SFD),presented its annual public safety statistics at a recent workshop.
Bush’s tenure with the city spanned from January 18,2022,to July 24,2024. This departure was not addressed at the public safety workshop, where officials highlighted the office’s efforts and achievements.
Days after Bush’s departure, the City of Savannah announced the appointment of Jimmie H. johnson, IV as the new ONSE Director. The office, established in 2022, focuses on implementing crime reduction strategies and enhancing community safety through collaborative initiatives.
As its inception, ONSE has consistently received a significant budget allocation, exceeding one million dollars annually. In 2022, the office was allocated $1.6 million, with over $1.583 million spent.
The following year, the allocated budget was $1.467 million, approaching full utilization. In 2024, ONSE received $1.728 million, spending the entirety of the allocated funds. For 2025, the proposed budget is approximately $1.3 million.
What Does John Bush Say?
Bush, contacted by
the Savannah Morning News, stated there were “several different reasons” for his departure from the city, attributing it to a “difference of leadership.” He cited his then-direct supervisor “weaponizing” Human Resources to effect his removal.
Bush further revealed that he had attempted to resign during his second month as ONSE Director, but ultimately felt pressured to stay.
the City of Savannah declined to comment on the specifics of Bush’s termination, citing privacy concerns regarding personnel matters. Though, this instance highlights the ongoing challenges and complexities faced by organizations working tirelessly to improve public safety and address crime in our communities.
How will Director Johnson IV ensure ONSE’s significant budget is well-spent and what priorities will guide his decisions?
Archyde Exclusive: A Conversation with ONSE’s New Director, jimmie H.Johnson IV
Meet Jimmie H. Johnson IV
Greeting the leadership change at Savannah’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) is Jimmie H. Johnson IV.
A Fresh Outlook on Community Safety
Archyde (A): Director Johnson, it’s a pleasure to have you with us today. you’ve taken on a meaningful role here in Savannah, following some recent developments. How do you feel about stepping into this position at this particular time?
JJ: I appreciate the chance, Archyde. I believe my background in community engagement and crime prevention will help me continue the good work started by the previous governance and address the challenges that lie ahead.
A: We appreciate your commitment, and we’re excited to see what changes and improvements you’ll bring to ONSE.
Budget and Achievements
A: ONSE has consistently received a substantial budget – over a million dollars annually. How will you ensure this investment is well-spent,and what priorities will guide your decisions?
JJ: My priorities will focus on evidence-based strategies,collaboration with community stakeholders,and enhancing our predictive analytics. I want to ensure every dollar brings tangible improvements to our community’s safety. I’m also committed to providing transparency in our budget spending and keeping the community informed about our progress.
A Fresh Outlook – A Change of Pace?
A: Given the recent departure of the previous director, do you anticipate any significant changes in ONSE’s approach or strategies?
JJ: While I respect the previous administration’s work, I do intend to introduce some new initiatives. I believe his departure opens an opportunity to infuse fresh ideas and perspectives into ONSE. I’m ready to listen, learn, and lead as we continue to make Savannah a safer place, together.
Interactive: Your Thoughts Matter
As director jimmie H. Johnson IV begins his tenure, share your thoughts and ideas on how ONSE can best serve our community in the comments below. We value your input and look forward to Savannah’s future under ONSE’s leadership.
