Watch Final Media Update for the RNC
Mayor Frank G. Jackson and Police Chief Calvin D. Williams provided the media with a final overview of actions that transpired in the event zone as it related to the Republican National Convention (RNC). A brief summary follows.
Final Wrap-up:
Mayor Jackson and Chief Williams gave many thanks to all Cleveland employees from Officers to Public Works and everyone in-between, as well as partner organizations and agencies, local businesses, visitors and the community for their overwhelming support this week.
This was a collaborative effort that took hard work, commitment and forethought from the beginning. It took a couple of years for the City to earn the position of host site for the 2016 Republican National Convention. The planning process for the Convention began about 18 months ago. There were many moving parts behind the scenes from inception to execution. Law enforcement coordination involved, planning, logistics, Intel and training; City efforts were vast covering utilities, public works (street maintenance, waste removal, clean up); and countless man hours from so many area partners.
Many of the assets acquired by the City for the Convention will remain. The Bicycle Unit proved to be particularly invaluable during the convention. The Division of Police will keep the bikes and reinstitute the bike patrols in neighborhoods. Community policing efforts will remain a main priority of the division and the city will continue to institute, sustainable, lasting and meaningful reform.
All-in-all, it was a great week that was successful on every level from planning and execution to partnerships and community engagement. The overall view of our city was positive. We got our chance to show everyone what Cleveland is all about and why we are a great city.
To sum it up, Mayor Jackson said, “We were accused of not being prepared, but I think the proof is in the pudding.” Chief Williams followed up by saying, “Don’t doubt Cleveland. Never doubt Cleveland.”
Arrests:
Total number of arrests for the week related to the RNC: 24
Total External Law Enforcement Support: 2,800
Finances:
After the audit is complete the City will release information relating to the National Special Security Event (NSSE) Grant Funds, including equipment costs, personnel and housing. Much of the cost to the city in regards to safety forces for the RNC will be reimbursed through this federal grant. City made financial contribution of $2.5 million to Host Committee for the event.
Straight from City Hall 
I really enjoyed all of RNC,,downtown was very nice and very very safe,,Everyone was very nice,had a goodtime,wished lake Erie had a part in the RNC,,it is one of our great jewels..also the flats,,boy that really would have put the icein on the cake,,all. in all our Mayor did a great job and our police chief and all the people that made it very safe clean and beautiful,,Thank s,,,Mayor Jackson.,,Job well done ,,,Thanks To all the police officer and security,,Great job ,,can’t wait for another one..
Police Chief Williams is,awesome. You rock!! Tbank you.thank you for your professionalism. I am prouud to be a Clevelander because of you!!