In many ways, the Library serves as a focal point for Oakwood, a foundation for the educational system, a source of cultural amenities, and an information hub for the community. In the recent past, the Library has added dozens of items, including videos, DVDs, e-books, and Internet access. These services should grow in importance, as Oakwood continues to be a community of choice for families with school age children. New media, programs and services will be needed during the next 10 to 15 years.

The Library Board employed an architect to do a space study in 2002. The study concluded that additional space is needed at Wright Memorial Public Library. Since the Library serves as a focal point for Oakwood and a foundation for the educational system, the City should work with the Library Board and Oakwood City Schools to help resolve space needs in the future.

Oakwood City and Public Safety Building

The attractive and historical Oakwood City and Public Safety Building is a two-story structure located at 30 Park Avenue. The building houses all City departments except for Leisure Services and Public Works. These departments include: a) the City’s administrative offices, b) Public Safety, c) Finance, d) Income Tax, and e) the Municipal Court.

The original portion of the building was constructed in 1920, with an administrative wing added in 1960. An improvement program completed in 1985 included the addition of new office space, new elevator service, and general overall remodeling and upgrading of existing space.

The building is currently undergoing a major renovation project which is scheduled for completion in late 2004. Completion of the Oakwood City and Public Safety Building renovation should resolve the space needs for the City’s administrative offices, Public Safety, Finance, Income Tax, and the Municipal Court. The building will be of sufficient size and configuration to meet the present and long-term future needs of the departments.

The Oakwood Public Safety Department is one of only 32 fully consolidated police and fire departments in the country. All of Oakwood’s sworn officers are state certified in law enforcement, fire fighting, and emergency medical techniques. The underlying philosophy of the Department is that public safety services can be most effectively provided by deploying officers trained in the basics of all three disciplines.

The Public Safety Department currently employs 32 sworn officers, plus six civilian personnel. The current officer staffing level is considered adequate. There are no plans to add personnel in the immediate future.

The Fire Department operates three fire-fighting apparatus, including; a) a 1996 Central State Fire Apparatus; b) a 1996 McCoy-Miller emergency medical vehicle; and c) a 1979 American La France fire apparatus. The Department recently purchased one new fire apparatus and anticipates delivery in September 2004. The new engine will replace the 1979 engine. Also, the Department plans to add one new emergency medical vehicle in 2005.

All Public Safety services are housed at the Oakwood City Building. The facility is centrally located in the community, thus facilitating response to police, fire and medical emergencies.

Oakwood does not experience significant crime problems. The number one priority is to reduce larcenies, which account for the major portion of Part 1 crimes in Oakwood. According to the Department, Oakwood has the lowest crime rate in the area.

Since surface streets in Oakwood are heavily used by pedestrians, all traffic and speed violations are a major concern to the community.