at least you are open to it.
1. I think there are situations - addicts, homeless, etc.. where less police presence could be used. Let them focus on other things. Yes, it would be dumb to suggest that a social worker is called for a robbery or gang shooting, and that is not what people are suggesting (Ok, not what I am). Relieves some of the burden and stress of the police officers.
2. I think the problem is, this isn't a one size fits all situation. A town of 20,000 could probably do some of these things, but NY might not be able to do the same things.