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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Safety Cmsn - 09/09/09 � �.►--�T,-.-w•� � CITY OF PALM DESERT . : REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING APPROVED MINTUTES Wednesday, September 9, 2009 — 3:30 p.m. Administrative Conference Room I. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Nethery called the meeting to order at 3:30 p.m. II. ROLL CALL ��TI�■']'�«�7��-'{�1'�����'��►��''� A��(�II\��Y !'.Il %�--__" '_._""' �p'.<"t1�S �S Present: ItF.CE1vE�)���J�._ ��s � �����:��� �__ .._�.�� _ __.. Commissioner James Butzbacf� _�'�'TING DATF, I G-��-��_ � � _ ����-�_�_ AYF.Sr C��'n�nr� �i/lPrfv, �j�/�j,,.���., Commissioner Gloria Kirkwood �--T— �� J�--- Vice Chairman James Larsh NOEs:_���� ABSENT: Commissioner Rick Lebel ABSTAIN: � Chairman Martin Nethery VERIFIED BY: Origina!on File with City Clerk's ffice Also Present: Mayor Pro Tem Cindy Finerty Stephen Aryan, Assistant to the City Manager Frankie Riddle, Director of Special Programs Gary Rosenblum, Risk Manager Lt. Andrew Shouse, Palm Desert Police Department Sergeant Misty Reynolds, Palm Desert Police Department Chief Dorian Cooley, Riverside County Fire Department Chief Steve Brooker, Riverside County Fire Department Chief John Rios, Riverside County Fire Department Lori Wimbish, Recording Secretary III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS None APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 IV. PRESENTATIONS None V. CONSENT CALENDAR A. Minutes of the Public Safety Commission Meetings of June 10, 2009 Rec: By Minute Motion, receive and file. B. Palm Desert Fire Services Monthly Report for May, June, and July 2009 Rec: By Minute Motion, receive and file. C. Palm Desert Special Enforcement Team Monthly Report for June, July, and August 2009 Removed for separate consideration under Section VI, Consent Items Held Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Commission discussion and action. D. Traffic Team Report for June, July, and August 2009 -- Includes Traffic Collision Statistics for May, June, and July 2009 and Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Statistics for June 2009 Rec: By Minute Motion, receive and file. E. Business District Team Report— June, July, and August 2009 Removed for separate consideration under Section VI, Consent Items Held Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Commission discussion and action. F. Canine Report— June, July, and August 2009 Rec: By Minute Motion, receive and file. G. Coachella Valley Violent Crime Gang Task Force Report for June, July, and August 2009 Rec: By Minute Motion, receive and file. 2 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 Lt. Andrew Shouse asked that Item C be removed for separate consideration under Section VI, Consent Items Held Over. Lt. Andrew Shouse asked that Item E be removed for separate consideration under Section VI, Consent Items Held Over Upon motion by Commissioner Butzbach, seconded by Commissioner Kirkwood, the remainder of the Consent Calendar was approved as presented by a 5-0 vote. VI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER C. Palm Desert Special Enforcement Team Monthly Report for June, July, and August 2009 Lt. Shouse reported that the Special Enforcement Team Reports for the months of July and August had an error in the statistics, which were corrected, copied and distributed to the Commissioners. E. Business District Team Report— June, July, and August 2009 Lt. Shouse reported that the Business District Team Reports for the months of July and August had an error in the statistics, which were corrected, copied and distributed to the Commissioners. Commissioner Butzbach moved, by Minute Motion, to receive and file both reports as modified. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Kirkwood and carried unanimously. VII. NEW BUSINESS A. Recommendation to accept United States Department of Justice BJA FY 2009 Recovery Act Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program Local Solicitation (Award #2009-SB-B9- 0954) Lt Shouse reported that the Department received $63,344, the full amount requested from the grant. The money will be used to fund the citywide Theft Suppression Program and VICE Crimes Suppression Program. Child Safety Equipment (bicycle helmets and car seats) and one Automated License Plate Reader will be purchased with these funds as well. Educational programs regarding bicycle safety and distribution of bicycle helmets will be given to the kids. Car seats will be given out to parents along with instructions on installation. He said they have officers who attend 3 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 specific training for child safety car seats and how to properly install them. Upon question by Commissioner Larsh, Lt. Shouse said they would use both the media and the Public Safety Fair being planned by the City of Palm Desert at the Civic Center Park in spring of 2010, to advertise the events. Upon inquiry by Commissioner Butzbach, Lt. Shouse responded that there was not an implemented plan for the funds. He believed the funds would last through 2013. He outlined the Theft Suppression Program and the VICE Crimes Suppression Program for the Commissioners. He said the Department does not have a Vice Team; however, the Set Officers were well trained in vice crimes and believed they could do a good job. He noted that they have realized some success with the Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) program. He thought the ALPR technology was untapped in the use of investigations. An Officer can run a partial plate number in the ALPR database and find the location of that car anywhere in the city. They are working on getting tied into Indio the Station and are currently downloading the Gang Taskforce data into the ALPR database. Commissioner Kirkwood moved, by Minute Motion, to concur with the Police Department's recommendation that the City Council accept the United States Department of Justice BJA FY 2009 Recovery Act Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program Local Solicitation (Award #2009-SB-B9-0954). The grant amount is $63,344. Funds will be used for multiple law enforcement programs. This award program runs from March 1, 2009, through February 28, 2013. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Larsh and carried unanimously. B. Recommendation to accept Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) DUI Enforcement and Awareness Program Grant (Grant #AL1094) for FY 2009/10 Lt. Shouse stated that they were currently running DUI saturation patrols, DUI checkpoints, and other programs with funds from the OTS DUI Enforcement and Awareness Program Grant. They applied for the same grant this coming fiscal year, October 1, 2009, through September 30, 2010, and received approval of that application. They were able to add a couple more saturation patrols and will be able to purchase equipment for DUI training. 4 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 Upon question by Commissioner Nethery, Lt. Shouse responded that a saturation patrol was essentially motors or traffic officers in vehicles driving around on patrol looking for drivers that may be under the influence of alcohol and/or driving while intoxicated. These officers work during the evening hours and overtime, which the additional funding allows them to do. The DUI checkpoints are set up in a fixed location. Commissioner Lebel moved, by Minute Motion, to concur with the Police Department's recommendation that the City Council accept the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) DUI Enforcement and Awareness Program Grant (Grant #AL 1094) for FY 2009/10. The grant amount is $163,167. Funds will be used for DUI saturation patrols, checkpoints and enforcement programs. The program will run from October 1, 2009, through September 30, 2010. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Larsh and carried unanimously. C. Recommendation to accept United States Department of Justice BJA FY 2009 Justice Assistance Grant Program (Award #2009-DJ- BX-1348) Lt. Shouse reported that there were a number of department computers that were outdated and it would be prudent to have funds set aside for computer equipment should the need become necessary. The grant funds can be used for purposes other than initially specified as long as they petition the DOJ to request other uses for the funds. Upon question by Chair Nethery, Lt. Shouse responded that these funds were separate from Cal COPS money and do not have to be used until 2012. Upon question by Commissioner Larsh, Lt. Shouse responded that he was hopeful that there would be more funds coming from Cal COPS before 2012. There were indications that the Cal COPS funding will remain through this fiscal year; however, there is no way to determine what will happen after that time. Commissioner Lebel thanked Lt. Shouse and members of his Department for bringing in $250,000 for additional funding through these three grants. Commissioner Larsh moved, by Minute Motion, to concur with the Police Department's recommendation that the City Councif accept the United States Department of Justice BJA FY 2009 Justice Assistance Grant Program (Award #2009- DJ-BX-1348). The grant amount if $15,654. Funds will be used to purchase needed 5 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 computers and printers for the Palm Desert Police Department. This award program runs from October 1, 2008, through September 30, 2012. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Kirkwood and carried unanimously. D. Request to expend funds for purchase of Crime Free Multi-Housing Software from Dynamic Design Crime Free Software Lt. Shouse reported that they were working to reinvigorate the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program. Officer Ellis, the department's Community Policing Officer, has been assigned to that task. The Software is very comprehensive and was designed specifically for the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program. He reviewed a demonstration of the program and stated that there were many components to the Software that would be beneficial to the needs of the department as well as help Ms. Ellis with organizing all of the data and information collected. The most valuable part of the Software was that there will be a seamless transition for the next person who steps into that job. A training event has been scheduled in October. Lt. Shouse stated that they will be receiving $100,000 this fiscal year in Cal COPS funds. There is approximately $28,000 remaining from last fiscal year, which ended on June 30, 2009. There are sufficient funds to cover this expense. Upon question by Commissioner Butzbach, Lt. Shouse responded that the Software has a two-year subscription period, which costs $395. The program cost is $995. There will be a cost to renew the subscription in two years. Commissioner Larsh moved, by Minute Motion, to concur with the Police DepartmenYs recommendation to purchase the Crime Free Multi-Housing Software from Dynamic Design Crime Free Software. No other vendor has been identified as providing a similar product. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Kirkwood and carried unanimously. E. Request to expend CAL Cops funds for various training courses. Lt. Shouse noted that most of the training will be local, Riverside County, and is essential for Dedicated Palm Desert Officers who are assigned to traffic. Upon question by Commissioner Lebel, Lt. Shouse responded that these Officer's positions will not be covered while they are in training as they are Dedicated Officers whose positions are not 6 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 backfilled when they are gone. In addition, he would not request funding for training of regular Patrol Officers because post training hours are paid for by the County. A discussion was held regarding the post training reimbursement of Officers who work for Municipalities and those who work for Contract Cities. Chair Nethery believed that because this is a Contract Police Department, post funds were not available for training. Commissioner Butzbach would like research into any legislation with regard to this matter. Stephen Aryan asked Lori Wimbish to schedule a meeting with Commissioner Butzbach, Lt. Shouse, Gary Rosenblum, and himself to discuss post training funds legislation. Commissioner Larsh moved, by Minute Motion, to concur with the Police DepartmenYs request to expend $2,860 in CAL Cops funds to send officers to six (6) different training events during FY 09/10. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Kirkwood and carried unanimously. F. Proposed Law Enforcement Responsibilities Memorandum of Understanding Agreements Chair Nethery commented that the report submitted by Stephen Aryan was excellent. Stephen Aryan noted that the COD Agreement was different in that COD does not have its own officers. All three Agreements were standardized amongst all of the educational institutes included, as preferred by the County, and it brings the colleges in compliance with the California Educational Code. He added that all Agreements were reviewed by the City Attorney, County Counsel, and Boards of all three colleges. Upon question by Commissioner Larsh, Mr. Aryan responded that he and Lt. Shouse looked at the information provided and determined that, based on the call volumes, there was not a need for cost recovery at this time. There is a 30-Day Termination Clause in the Agreement that states that the Agreement can be terminated and renegotiated if necessary. 7 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 A discussion was held regarding the legality of a contract not containing any dollar amount. Commissioner Larsh moved, by Minute Motion, to approve staff's recommendation that the City Council approve the attached Law Enforcement Responsibilities MOU agreements with COD, CSUSB-PDC, and UCR. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Kirkwood and carried unanimously. VIII. CONTINUED BUSINESS None IX. OLD BUSINESS None X. REPORT ON CITY COUNCIL ACTION (S) Mr. Aryan reported that at the August 27, 2009, City Council meeting, the Council received and filed the City Manager's report regarding Reorganization within the City and Redevelopment Agency. He explained that through a combination of a hiring freeze, early retirement, and the elimination of four positions, the City was reduced by 19 positions at a savings of$2.7 million. Mr. Aryan announced that the Vehicle Impound Cost Recovery Fee Ordinance will be on the September 10, 2009, City Council Agenda. This Commission recommended a minimum recovery fee of $117.30. With the addition of a 5 percent cost of living, as Lt. Shouse indicated, and administrative costs, the recovery fee was increased to $140. A discussion was held regarding the loss of 19 positions and its impact on service delivery. Mayor Pro Tem Finerty responded that the City Manager did an excellent job coming on board at a very difficult economic time for the City. She believed the entire Council was very pleased with the reorganization plan and that the City needs to remain lean and cost efficient during both good times and bad. Chair Nethery inquired if the reorganization was received well by staff. Mr. Aryan responded, yes. 8 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 XI. REPORTS AND REMARKS A. Citizens on Patrol Program 1. Monthly Reports for June, July, August 2009 Frankie Riddle reported that the program was moving along. Through the summer months there were some fluctuation in volunteer hours, but still well above 600. The COPS were continuing to work with the Police Department on communication and were being utilized at DUI checkpoints. She introduced "The C.O.P.S. Caller," a monthly newsletter produced by a husband and wife team who are COPS members. The Newsletter will be distributed monthly for COPS members, and be included in the Commission's monthly agenda packets. Ms. Riddle reported that 27 COPS members will be attending the National Association Citizens On Patrol (NACOP) Conference in Chino Hills, California, October 3, 2009. B. Legislative Update 1. Gary Rosenblum None C. Police and Fire Departments 1. Crime Free Multi-Housing Program Brochures Lt. Shouse stated that the brochure outlines the training event organized by Officer Ellis. She worked closely with the City on developing the tri-fold brochure. He said David Herman an Administrative Analyst with the City does a great job and was thankful for his assistance. They were also receiving great participation from the City's Housing Department. They are working closely with apartment managers and have . recommended training at the Indio Police Department to get them on board early. Some managers have implemented 9 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 changes already and they were continuing to work with them to keep things moving forward. 2. Introduction of Chief Bill Hunley Chief Dorian Cooley introduced Chief Bill Hunley to the Commissioners. Chief Hunley is a local resident and comes to Palm Desert from the Training Division. Chief Hunley gave a brief history on his career, which began in the Fire Service in 1983 with Palm Springs. He moved to the City of Indio Fire Department when it began its Paramedic Program in 1985. In 1997, he transitioned over to Cal Fire and worked his way through the ranks running hand crews and wild land fires in the Training Division. He has been a resident of the Coachella Valley for 26 years. Chief Cooley noted that Chief Hunley will be working opposite Chief Rios as the City's two Operational Battalion Chiefs. As you may be aware, Chief Brooker is at the Fire Marshal's Office and also handles emergency calls and some operation assistance, but the primary Operation Team will be Chief Rios and Chief Hunley. Lt. Shouse introduced Sergeant Misty Reynolds. Sergeant Reynolds is the new Palm Desert Administration Sergeant and will be working closely with him. Sergeant Reynolds will be replacing Sergeant Robert Purdue who was recently promoted to Lt. and will be working at the Indio Jail. The Commissioners welcomed both Chief Bill Hunley and Sergeant Misty Reynolds. D. Staff 1. CNG Ambulance Update Mr. Aryan gave an update on the progress of the CNG Ambulance. Mr. Aryan and members of the Fire Department will be traveling to Houston in October to view the construction of the unit. Delivery is expected in December, at which time, they will have a dedication ceremony wherein everyone will be invited. 10 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 Mr. Aryan reported that the Fire Department took possession of two new engine pumpers for Stations 33 and 67. Once the engines are fully lettered and equipped they will bring them to City Hall for the Commission to view at its meeting in October. Mr. Aryan announced that Ryan Stendell and his wife were the proud parents of a new baby girl. Mr. Stendell said that his wife just gave birth to their second daughter. He wanted to come to the meeting to personally thank the Commissioners for being very supportive of everything he and Mr. Rosenblum brought forward and that he has enjoyed working with the Commissioners these past 18 months. Mayor Pro Tem Finerty stated that Mr. Stendell will be an asset wherever he serves the City. Chair Nethery thanked Mr. Stendell and congratulated him on the birth of his daughter. E. Public Safety Commissioners Commissioner Kirkwood thanked the Fire Department for saving her home from a fire that began in palm trees that had never been trimmed. There was about a 50 foot fireball that went across the street and came onto her property. The Fire Department responded very quickly, and although there was quite a bit of damage, no injuries were sustained by the fire. Commissioner Larsh inquired of Chief Cooley if the Fire Department received reimbursement for false alarms. Chief Cooley said the City of Palm Desert does not bill for false alarms. He went on to explain that all cities differ in the way they handle false alarms. Chair Nethery stated that the Police Department answers false alarms too and the issue has been in front of the Commission in the past. The City Council has made a policy decision not to charge for false alarms. Maybe this City Council, or staff, will bring this forward if they think it is appropriate. 11 APPROVED MINUTES REGULAR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION MEETING SEPTEMBER 9, 2009 Commissioner Butzbach informed the Commissioners that there are six vacancies within the three fire stations. Chief Cooley said they were currently in the process of hiring Paramedics. It is a 7-month process between the interviews and running medical and backgrounds checks. Once those processes are complete, they enter into a six-week orientation and training session. We anticipate the next batch of new employees will be on board in November. Upon question by Mr. Aryan, Chief Cooley responded that some of the new employees will be going to Station 55, but some current medics in Palm Desert want the opportunity to work on the new unit, so we will be allowing employees to move around. There are advantages to having experienced people on a new unit. Chief Cooley added that there is never a shortage of services, but occasionally there is an unhappy employee who gets held over for an extra day who does not want to work. Chief Cooley stated that they sent resources to the surrounding fire areas. Chief John Rios said Engines 33, 69, and 71 were sent. A Fire Captain was still assigned to the Station Fire. XII. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Butzbach moved to adjourn the meeting at 4:30 p.m., in memory of Carlos Ortega whose presence will be deeply missed by this Commission. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Kirkwood and carried unanimously. 1 ' • Lori imbish, Recording Sec etary 12