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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 Board of Police Commissioners Minutes -All 1777 MEMORANDUM TO: Terese Horn, City Council Dixie Gilmore, City Clerk's Office FROM: —Vicky-Gilt, Police Department DATE: December 9, 1997 RE: Board of Police Commissioners' meetings for 1998 Regular meetings for 1998 are: Tuesday January 20, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday February 17, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday March 17, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday April 21, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday May 19, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday June 16, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday July 21, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday August 18, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday September 15, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday October 20, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday November 17, 1998 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday December 15, 1998 11:30 a.m. Location to be Announced he December meeting is the Annual Budget Meeting. The South Precinct is located at 3400 i. Cedar Street. The telephone number there is 272-7454. f you require any additional information, please let me know. vg c: Board of Police Commissioners Mayor Hollister's Office J r � < L( 8 3� 8 -c N , � o x BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES _ 1.-LJ December 15, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: N J. ` `� F'i 2' Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, ((`,- Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Assistant Chief Andy George;"f'_P& f CLERK Commissioner Maria Mejorado Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse, LPD Commissioner Deb Frederick Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Roger Newcomb Bernard Brantley, Chief Investigator Commissioner Derrick Quinney Jim DeLine, Secretary (and LPD Budget Control Supervisor) Excused: Commissioner Willard Walker Guests: Capt. Chris Magnus, LPD Members of the Public: None. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 11:57 a.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Citizen Police Academy Schedule - Commissioner Farhat-Reed read an announcement that the next Citizen Police Academy will begin on January 19 and run for ten weeks. Sessions will be held Tuesdays, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of November 17, 1998, were approved as corrected and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE None. COMMUNICATIONS Correspondence - The Board received a letter of appreciation from Paul McComb for their well wishes and gift of a fruit basket as he recovers from an epileptic seizure. Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of November, 1998. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS Monthly Reports-Commissioner Quinney commended the Department on their presence at Sexton High School Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 15, 1998 Page 2 during a recent drug occurrence. Commission Canady commended the Department on the successful use of "Knock and Talk" procedures and the presence of officers at neighborhood meetings. Commissioner Newcomb requested an update on community concerns on the reassignment of officers previously designated as "community policing officers". The Chief commented that neighborhood activists seem to have noticed that officers continue to have a strong community presence and negative comments have subsided. Commission Mejorado asked a question on the increased number of firearm registrations. Deputy Chief Perry-Buse noted that the number of registrations frequently increases at this time of year. Commissioner Frederick asked for an update on the neighborhood concerns with the Spiral Bar in the north Lansing area. The Chief mentioned that there are some citizens who continue to speak out, but problems are not of a police nature as much as simple parking concerns. Monthly Departmental Reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board - Commissioner Newcomb noted that the new format of reporting is not as descriptive as the previous style. The Traffic Review Board Report was accepted and placed on file. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - No report. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed referred Commissioners to the fiscal year 2000 Budget Book distributed with their monthly packets and expressed her pleasure at working with the LPD Budget Control Supervisor in his role as liaison to her Board committee. She announced that the budget proposal was in line with the Mayor's requested target for the Department. The Chief noted that the budget was compiled using guidelines and assumptions spelled out by the Mayor's budget analysts. He discussed the Department's request for new programs which increase operating costs primarily for previously approved initiatives - including the use of laptop computers and 800 MHZ radios by patrol officers. He also mentioned the request to convert the Property and Supply Unit to civilian staffing in order to provide less turnover and also save money. He also discussed the Department's need to increase training funds from the City budget which supplement dollars provided by the State of Michigan. Jim DeLine noted that the budget summary found in the budget proposal includes neither new programs or funds for the settlement of current labor negotiations. Funds are added by the Mayor's office before final passage in order to ensure that the budget can absorb a new labor agreement. The Chief discussed the previous submission of CIP requests (those projects which exceed $15,000). They include the introduction of in-car video systems, the renovation of the Police Building and replacement of a base station which supports the current radio system. Commissioner Canady asked how repairs of computers and other new equipment will be done. Jim DeLine explained that the radio new program includes funds for the radio lab (Electronic Equipment Maintenance Unit) to stock parts for the radios. The laptop maintenance new program includes funds for repair / replacement. The Chief noted that newer laptop computers are being made more durable, more compatible to the police environment. In general, officers' acceptance of the laptops has been positive. Commissioner Frederick asked about funds budgeted for the Board of Police Commissioners. Jim DeLine explained that the traditional $1,000 allocated to the Board was raised to $1,500 in anticipation of additional expenses created by the Chief Investigator's office. In answer to other concerns expressed by the Board, Jim assured them that these funds would be sufficient to feed Commissioners a light meal at each meeting. The Chief told Board members that this practice could begin now. The proposed budget was accepted and will be forwarded to the Mayor. Jim DeLine will prepare a letter for Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 15, 1998 Page 3 Commissioner Canady's signature. The Board moved to support a request for increased training funds. Jim DeLine will prepare a memo to the Mayor for Commissioner Canady's signature. Human Resources Committee - Deputy Chief Perry-Buse reported that the Department's diversity factor is at 23% as we approach the Mayor's goal of 25%. Commissioners commented on the diversity apparent when new officers appeared before City Council. Incentives Committee - None. Complaint Sub-Committee - Commissioner Frederick distributed a draft of a "Point of View" article for the Lansing State Journal which she and Commissioner Walker wrote in response to the paper's comments on the time taken in hiring of the Chief Investigator position. The Board moved approval of the draft for submission to the paper. Jim DeLine will prepare a final version and fax to the Lansing State Journal. Due to staff changes,the regular monthly meeting of the sub-committee with the Department's Internal Affairs Unit was not held during the month of December. Commissioner Frederick reported that Mr. Brantley is reviewing the complaint brochure and will offer any suggestions or revision which he feels need to be made. She also expressed the need to convene a supervision committee for the Chief Investigator position. The Board agreed to have the Complaint Sub-Committee (with the addition of the Board Chair) act as the supervisory committee. OTHER BUSINESS Proposed Revision to Annual Report Administrative Procedure - Approved. Proposed New Police Chaplains Administrative Procedure - Approved. 1999 Schedule of Meetings - Approved. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Meiorado - Commended both the North and South Precincts on their Christmas activities for the community and wished fellow Commissioners a Merry Christmas. Commissioner Frederick- Reiterated her positive impression of the newly hired recruits and was impressed with the way they conducted themselves in a meeting on gay / lesbian issues. She supports the Department's use of a citizen satisfaction survey as mentioned in the budget document. Commissioner Quinney - None. Commissioner Newcomb -Apologized to the Board for any negative connotations which may stem from public comments made at the City Council meeting mentioning him by name and his role as a member of the Board. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Asked for an update on the suit against the Department by the Lansing State Journal and public comments coming from the County Prosecutor's office. Commissioners, Capt. Magnus and Mr. Jordan discussed the confusion in attributing comments to either Stuart Dunnings, Jr. or Stuart Dunnings, Sr. Mr. Jordan told the Board that he was in receipt of a Freedom of Information Act request from the Prosecutor's office relative to Internal Affairs documents. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked for an update on the appeal by the City on the verdict in the Swans case. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 15, 1998 Page 4 Mr. Jordan informed the Board that the appeal will be coordinated by the City's insurance carrier and has not been filed as yet. Commission Canady - Expressed his pleasure at the work done by the Commission this year and the relationship with the new Department administration. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson introduced Captain Magnus and announced the promotion of Derek Beiderwieden to the Internal Affairs Lieutenant position. The Internal Affairs Sergeant position being vacated by the retiring Sgt. Bisson will be filled by Sgt. Edward Forrest. He stated that the new IA personnel will continue a cooperative working relationship with the Board. The Chief mentioned an article in the Lansing State Journal on crime figures. He noted that figures quoted by the Journal are for the first six months of the year and are not reflective of current crime reduction which he believes is a result of officer redeployment. He reiterated the Department's three goals of reducing crime, reducing calls for service, and increasing citizen satisfaction. He expressed the Department's commitment to be more proactive in the area of media relations. He announced the assignment of Lt. Ray Hall to media relations. A seminar by the firm of Kolt and Serkain is being conducted for Department commanders. The Chief distributed an article on titled, "Citizen Complaints - What the Police Should Know" which, among other things, discussed that public satisfaction with complaint procedures is no greater when conducted by a citizen review board. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 1:10 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES December 15, 1998 , - -� �'fit;"•: f ! ��� a, � o Members Present: Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman a ert Johnson, LP ��ic�i:`, , C! `r CLERK Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed tant Chief Andy George, LPD Commissioner Maria Mejorado uty Chief Helen Perry-Buse, LPD Commissioner Deb Frederick ack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Roger Newcomb Bernard Brantley, Chief Investigator Commissioner Derrick Quinney Jim DeLine, Secretary (and LPD Budget Control Supervisor) Excused: Commissioner Willard Walker Guests: Capt. Chris Magnus, LPD Members of the Public: None. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 11 :57 a.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Citizen Police Academy Schedule - Commissioner Farhat-Reed read an announcement that the next Citizen Police Academy will begin on January 19 and run for ten weeks. Sessions will be held Tuesdays, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of November 17, 1998, were approved as corrected and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE None. COMMUNICATIONS Correspondence - The Board received a letter of appreciation from Paul McComb for their well wishes and gift of a fruit basket as he recovers from an epileptic seizure. Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters / memorandums of appreciation received during the month of November, 1998. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS Monthly Reports - Commissioner Quinney commended the Department on their presence at Sexton High School Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 15, 1998 Page 2 during a recent drug occurrence. Commission Canady commended the Department on the successful use of "Knock and Talk" procedures and the presence of officers at neighborhood meetings. Commissioner Newcomb requested an update on community concerns on the reassignment of officers previously designated as "community policing officers". The Chief commented that neighborhood activists seem to have noticed that officers continue to have a strong community presence and negative comments have subsided. Commission Mejorado asked a question on the increased number of firearm registrations. Deputy Chief Perry-Buse noted that the number of registrations frequently increases at this time of year. Commissioner Frederick asked for an update on the neighborhood concerns with the Spiral Bar in the north Lansing area. The Chief mentioned that there are some citizens who continue to speak out, but problems are not of a police nature as much as simple parking concerns. Monthly Departmental Reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board - Commissioner Newcomb noted that the new format of reporting is not as descriptive as the previous style. The Traffic Review Board Report was accepted and placed on file. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - No report. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed referred Commissioners to the fiscal year 2000 Budget Book distributed with their monthly packets and expressed her pleasure at working with the LPD Budget Control Supervisor in his role as liaison to her Board committee. She announced that the budget proposal was in line with the Mayor's requested target for the Department. The Chief noted that the budget was compiled using guidelines and assumptions spelled out by the Mayor's budget analysts. He discussed the Department's request for new programs which increase operating costs primarily for previously approved initiatives - including the use of laptop computers and 800 MHZ radios by patrol officers. He also mentioned the request to convert the Property and Supply Unit to civilian staffing in order to provide less turnover and also save money. He also discussed the Department's need to increase training funds from the City budget which supplement dollars provided by the State of Michigan. Jim DeLine noted that the budget summary found in the budget proposal includes neither new programs or funds for the settlement of current labor negotiations. Funds are added by the Mayor's office before final passage in order to ensure that the budget can absorb a new labor agreement. The Chief discussed the previous submission of CIP requests (those projects which exceed $15,000). They include the introduction of in-car video systems, the renovation of the Police Building and replacement of a base station which supports the current radio system. Commissioner Canady asked how repairs of computers and other new equipment will be done. Jim DeLine explained that the radio new program includes funds for the radio lab (Electronic Equipment Maintenance Unit) to stock parts for the radios. The laptop maintenance new program includes funds for repair / replacement. The Chief noted that newer laptop computers are being made more durable, more compatible to the police environment. In general, officers' acceptance of the laptops has been positive. Commissioner Frederick asked about funds budgeted for the Board of Police Commissioners. Jim DeLine explained that the traditional $1,000 allocated to the Board was raised to $1,500 in anticipation of additional expenses created by the Chief Investigator's office. In answer to other concerns expressed by the Board, Jim assured them that these funds would be sufficient to feed Commissioners a light meal at each meeting. The Chief told Board members that this practice could begin now. The proposed budget was accepted and will be forwarded to the Mayor. Jim DeLine will prepare a letter for Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 15, 1998 Page 3 Commissioner Canady's signature. The Board moved to support a request for increased training funds. Jim DeLine will prepare a memo to the Mayor for Commissioner Canady's signature. Human Resources Committee - Deputy Chief Perry-Buse reported that the Department's diversity factor is at 23% as we approach the Mayor's goal of 25%. Commissioners commented on the diversity apparent when new officers appeared before City Council. Incentives Committee - None. Complaint Sub-Committee - Commissioner Frederick distributed a draft of a "Point of View" article for the Lansing State Journal which she and Commissioner Walker wrote in response to the paper's comments on the time taken in hiring of the Chief Investigator position. The Board moved approval of the draft for submission to the paper. Jim DeLine will prepare a final version and fax to the Lansing State Journal. Due to staff changes, the regular monthly meeting of the sub-committee with the Department's Internal Affairs Unit was not held during the month of December. Commissioner Frederick reported that Mr. Brantley is reviewing the complaint brochure and will offer any suggestions or revision which he feels need to be made. She also expressed the need to convene a supervision committee for the Chief Investigator position. The Board agreed to have the Complaint Sub-Committee (with the addition of the Board Chair) act as the supervisory committee. OTHER BUSINESS Proposed Revision to Annual Report Administrative Procedure - Approved. Proposed New Police Chaplains Administrative Procedure - Approved. 1999 Schedule of Meetings - Approved. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Mejorado - Commended both the North and South Precincts on their Christmas activities for the community and wished fellow Commissioners a Merry Christmas. Commissioner Frederick - Reiterated her positive impression of the newly hired recruits and was impressed with the way they conducted themselves in a meeting on gay / lesbian issues. She supports the Department's use of a citizen satisfaction survey as mentioned in the budget document. Commissioner Quinney - None. Commissioner Newcomb - Apologized to the Board for any negative connotations which may stem from public comments made at the City Council meeting mentioning him by name and his role as a member of the Board. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Asked for an update on the suit against the Department by the Lansing State Journal and public comments coming from the County Prosecutor's office. Commissioners, Capt. Magnus and Mr. Jordan discussed the confusion in attributing comments to either Stuart Dunnings, Jr. or Stuart Dunnings, Sr. Mr. Jordan told the Board that he was in receipt of a Freedom of Information Act request from the Prosecutor's office relative to Internal Affairs documents. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked for an update on the appeal by the City on the verdict in the Swans case. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 15, 1998 Page 4 Mr. Jordan informed the Board that the appeal will be coordinated by the City's insurance carrier and has not been filed as yet. Commission Canady - Expressed his pleasure at the work done by the Commission this year and the relationship with the new Department administration. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson introduced Captain Magnus and announced the promotion of Derek Beiderwieden to the Internal Affairs Lieutenant position. The Internal Affairs Sergeant position being vacated by the retiring Sgt. Bisson will be filled by Sgt. Edward Forrest. He stated that the new IA personnel will continue a cooperative working relationship with the Board. The Chief mentioned an article in the Lansing State Journal on crime figures. He noted that figures quoted by the Journal are for the first six months of the year and are not reflective of current crime reduction which he believes is a result of officer redeployment. He reiterated the Department's three goals of reducing crime, reducing calls for service, and increasing citizen satisfaction. He expressed the Department's commitment to be more proactive in the area of media relations. He announced the assignment of Lt. Ray Hall to media relations. A seminar by the firm of Kolt and Serkain is being conducted for Department commanders. The Chief distributed an article on titled, "Citizen Complaints - What the Police Should Know" which, among other things, discussed that public satisfaction with complaint procedures is no greater when conducted by a citizen review board. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 1:10 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES November 17, 1998 `l•-ice J r;. 1 (l1' �}� Members Present: Others Present: L r f(�II. �{"('`i CLERK Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, IS Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public None. Guests Lt. Joel Maatman, FOP Sgt. Craig Baylis, LPD Lt. Oleg Bespalko, Ukraine Lt. Vova Melnyk, Ukraine Bernard Brantley, Incoming Chief Investigator CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Discussion of Lansing State Journal Editorial - Commissioners expressed their displeasure with the Journal's view that there was "foot dragging" in the Chief Investigator selection process. They were pleased with Chief Johnson's published response. Discussion followed concerning a possible response from the Board. While commissioners did not feel it was possible to get "the last word" in the matter against the major newspaper in town. They did, however, feel it was important to show solidarity with the Chief, and to demonstrate to the public the importance they placed upon the selection process and the care with which it was approached. The Board moved to prepare a response to the editorial. Commissioner Walker and Commissioner Frederick agreed to prepare the text. Discussion on the status of LPD Legal Advisor, Paul McComb - Jack Jordan brought the Board news of Paul McComb's health since his seizure several weeks ago. Mr. Jordan informed the Board that Mr. McComb was recovering and would welcome phone calls from members of the Board. The Board moved to direct the Secretary to purchase a fruit basket from the Board's budgeted funds. Mr. Canady will arrange delivery. Board of Police Commissioner's Nine Month Status Report - The report was accepted and placed on file. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of October 20, 1998, were approved and placed on file. Minutes from the special meeting of October 29, 1998, were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Organization and Administrative Procedure - Commissioner Newcomb raised questions on the disciplinary role Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 17, 1998 Page 2 the Board has under City Charter and possible discrepancies between language in the Charter and that in the Administrative Procedure. The Board discussed the historical preference of the Board in the disciplinary process and the limitations of its role as mandated by collective bargaining agreements. Mr. Jordan reminded the Board that they were an advisory body. The Board moved to approve the new procedure by a vote of six to one. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE None. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters / memorandums of appreciation received during the month of October, 1998. The Chief was commended for the Department's use of a ride-along evaluation form. Commissioner Canady pointed out the lack of negative letters being received concerning the Department. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS Monthly Reports - Commission Walker asked a question on the City's OUIL Cost Recovery Program. Commissioner Canady commended the Department on its proper handling of forfeiture money in light of the State Journal's front page article. Commissioner Walker asked for an update on gang activity in Lansing. Chief Johnson informed him that gang activity did not seem to be on the increase though the Department is monitoring the rumor of a new gang in town. Monthly Departmental Reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board The Traffic Review Board Report was accepted and placed on file. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - Commissioner Mejorado introduced Sgt. Baylis who addressed the Board regarding proposed changes to the annual Awards Ceremony. In the future, the ceremony will coincide with Law Enforcement Appreciation Month in May. This may mean fewer awards next year, being the ceremony will be less than one year from the previous ceremony. Procedures for award nominations and selection are also being changed. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that capital improvement projects had been submitted to the Mayor. The Chief will be conducting several budget meetings with staff members. Commissioner Farhat-Reed will attend as her schedule permits. Board discussion of the fiscal year 2000 budget will be held at next month's meeting. The Board moved to have a lunch meeting on December 15 at the South Precinct. The secretary was directed to make the necessary arrangements. Human Resources Committee - None. Incentives Committee - None. Complaint Sub-Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that the format of monthly meetings with Internal Affairs and / or the Chief Investigator will be worked out in the coming months. Commissioner Quinney asked a question concerning turnover in the Internal Affairs Unit. The Chief explained that Lt. Magnus from IA had recently been promoted to Captain and that Sgt. Bisson had announced his retirement. The Chief is presently in the process of gauging interest in IA positions from supervisory personnel. A new lieutenant is expected to be announced within a month. Commissioners expressed their pleasure in the working relationship they Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 17, 1998 Page 3 have enjoyed with Lt. (Capt.) Magnus and Sgt. Bisson. OTHER BUSINESS Ethics Training - Commissioner Canady read a letter from Human Resources Director, Sharon Bommarito, on the need for ethics training by all City of Lansing employees and officers. Sgt. Baylis distributed the City's Ethics Manual and conducted the session which included the viewing of a videotape produced by the City. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Mejorado - Commented that she and Commissioner Newcomb had completed a "New Commissioner" orientation day at the Department. She described the day as "quite interesting and very helpful." Commissioner Newcomb - Agreed with Commissioner Mejorado's characterization of the orientation day. He was especially interested in the visit to the Detention Center and new North Precinct site. Commissioner Walker - None. Commissioner Quinney - None. Commissioner Frederick - Welcomed new Chief Investigator, Bernard Brantley, to the meeting. Commissioner Canady - Commended the Department on the caliber of its recruits who recently graduated from the Mid-Michigan Police Academy. He reported on a successful meeting with City Council's Committee of the Whole and invited Board members to the next COW meeting to hear a presentation by Capt. Cook. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson distributed information regarding the appointment of a Public Information Officer, Lt. Ray Hall. He announced that Lt. Hall had already made a positive impact and soon would be coordinating a media relations seminar for Department command and a meeting with area news editors. He told the Board of the Mayor's Police / Community Relations Committee's development of a cable television show which will broadcast on the City cable channel 28. He announced the promotion of Lt. Chris Magnus to the position of Captain to the Administrative Services Division of the Department. He is excited about Capt. Magnus' talents and expected contributions to this area. The Captain is also instrumental in the new post-academy training program for new officers. All recent academy hires will go through the post-academy training. Selected sessions will also be required for all officers hired within the last year. Chief Johnson believes the post-academy training sessions will allow new hires to learn basic report writing and other skills in a low stress environment, and thus will be an improvement over the previous method of attempting to process all new skills in the field. It is anticipated that the failure rate of new officers will decrease due to the new program. Modifications to the training program are now being introduced to Field Training Officers (FTOs). Chief Johnson announced the acceptance of the TIIAP grant by City Council. This grant will allow the Department to introduce informational kiosks around Lansing for use by members of the community to access various information. The Chief announced that progress in negotiations with the FOP unions were going slow, but moving forward. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 17, 1998 Page 4 Several meetings have been held with the FOP Supervisory union, less with the FOP non-supervisory union, and the FOP 911 union negotiations are scheduled for arbitration in April. Commissioner Canady asked the Chief about the Department's mentoring program. Chief Johnson commended Lt. Julie Williams for the development of the program and he feels it is of great benefit to new officers. Commissioner Farhat-Reed commended the Department on the successful introduction of laptop computers to patrol staff. Mr. Jordan informed the Board that the Lansing State Journal suit was scheduled for a one-half day trial before Judge Houk on December 3. He stated that all parties have been deposed, the FOP has joined the case, and members of the Board will probably not be subpoenaed since the trial is only scheduled for one-half day. Mr. Jordan is confident that, regardless of verdict, an appeal will be filed. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES November 17, 1998 J I !, r'!I 7 Members Present: Others Prgpgnt�,.l r,l j LF - NJ I Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert`J�I�h ��r`� LA SI?G CITY Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public None. Guests Lt. Joel Maatman, FOP Sgt. Craig Baylis, LPD Lt. Oleg Bespalko, Ukraine Lt. Vova Melnyk, Ukraine Bernard Brantley, Incoming Chief Investigator CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Discussion of Lansing State Journal Editorial - Commissioners expressed their displeasure with the Journal's view that there was "foot dragging" in the Chief Investigator selection process. They were pleased with Chief Johnson's published response. Discussion followed concerning a possible response from the Board. While commissioners did not feel it was possible to get "the last word" in the matter against the major newspaper in town. They did, however, feel it was important to show solidarity with the Chief, and to demonstrate to the public the importance they placed upon the selection process and the care with which it was approached. The Board moved to prepare a response to the editorial. Commissioner Walker agreed to prepare the text. Discussion on the status of LPD Legal Advisor, Paul McComb - Jack Jordan brought the Board news of Paul McComb's health since his seizure several weeks ago. Mr. Jordan informed the Board that Mr. McComb was recovering and would welcome phone calls from members of the Board. The Board moved to direct the Secretary to purchase a fruit basket from the Board's budgeted funds. Mr. Canady will arrange delivery. Board of Police Commissioner's Nine Month Status Report - The report was accepted and placed on file. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of October 20, 1998, were approved and placed on file. Minutes from the special meeting of October 29, 1998, were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Organization and Administrative Procedure - Commissioner Newcomb raised questions on the disciplinary role the Board has under City Charter and possible discrepancies between language in the Charter and that in the Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 17, 1998 Page 2 Administrative Procedure. The Board discussed the historical preference of the Board in the disciplinary process and the limitations of its role as mandated by collective bargaining agreements. Mr. Jordan reminded the Board that they were an advisory body. The Board moved to approve the new procedure by a vote of six to one. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lt. Maatman expressed the FOP - Supervisory union's support for the Board's hiring of Chief Johnson. Sgt. Baylis introduced two lieutenants from the Ukraine visiting in coordination with Project: Harmony. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters / memorandums of appreciation received during the month of October, 1998. The Chief was commended for the Department's use of a ride-along evaluation form. Commissioner Canady pointed out the lack of negative letters being received concerning the Department. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS Monthly Reports - Commission Walker asked a question on the City's OUIL Cost Recovery Program. Commissioner Canady commended the Department on its proper handling of forfeiture money in light of the State Journal's front page article. Commissioner Walker asked for an update on gang activity in Lansing. Chief Johnson informed him that gang activity did not seem to be on the increase though the Department is monitoring the rumor of a new gang in town. Monthly Departmental Reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board The Traffic Review Board Report was accepted and placed on file. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - Commissioner Mejorado introduced Sgt. Baylis who addressed the Board regarding proposed changes to the annual Awards Ceremony. In the future, the ceremony will coincide with Law Enforcement Appreciation Month in May. This may mean fewer awards next year, being the ceremony will be less than one year from the previous ceremony. Procedures for award nominations and selection are also being changed. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that capital improvement projects had been submitted to the Mayor. The Chief will be conducting several budget meetings with staff members. Commissioner Farhat-Reed will attend as her schedule permits. Board discussion of the fiscal year 2000 budget will be held at next month's meeting. The Board moved to have a lunch meeting on December 15 at the South Precinct. The secretary was directed to make the necessary arrangements. Human Resources Committee - None. Incentives Committee - None. Complaint Sub-Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that the format of monthly meetings with Internal Affairs and / or the Chief Investigator will be worked out in the coming months. Commissioner Quinney asked a question concerning turnover in the Internal Affairs Unit. The Chief explained that Lt. Magnus from IA had recently been promoted to Captain and that Sgt. Bisson had announced his retirement. The Chief is presently in the process of gauging interest in IA positions from supervisory personnel. A new lieutenant is expected to be announced within a month. Commissioners expressed their pleasure in the working relationship they Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 17, 1998 Page 3 have enjoyed with Lt. (Capt.) Magnus and Sgt. Bisson. OTHER BUSINESS Ethics Training - Commissioner Canady read a letter from Human Resources Director, Sharon Bommarito, on the need for ethics training by all City of Lansing employees and officers. Sgt. Baylis distributed the City's Ethics Manual and conducted the session which included the viewing of a videotape produced by the City. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Mejorado - Commented that she and Commissioner Newcomb had completed a "New Commissioner" orientation day at the Department. She described the day as "quite interesting and very helpful." Commissioner Newcomb - Agreed with Commissioner Mejorado's characterization of the orientation day. He was especially interested in the visit to the Detention Center and new North Precinct site. Commissioner Walker - None. Commissioner Quinney - None. Commissioner Frederick - Welcomed new Chief Investigator, Bernard Brantley, to the meeting. Commissioner Canady - Commended the Department on the caliber of its recruits who recently graduated from the Mid-Michigan Police Academy. He reported on a successful meeting with City Council's Committee of the Whole and invited Board members to the next COW meeting to hear a presentation by Capt. Cook. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson distributed information regarding the appointment of a Public Information Officer, Lt. Ray Hall. He announced that Lt. Hall had already made a positive impact and soon would be coordinating a media relations seminar for Department command and a meeting with area news editors. He told the Board of the Mayor's Police / Community Relations Committee's development of a cable television show which will broadcast on the City cable channel 28. He announced the promotion of Lt. Chris Magnus to the position of Captain to the Administrative Services Division of the Department. He is excited about Capt. Magnus' talents and expected contributions to this area. The Captain is also instrumental in the new post-academy training program for new officers. All recent academy hires will go through the post-academy training. Selected sessions will also be required for all officers hired within the last year. Chief Johnson believes the post-academy training sessions will allow new hires to learn basic report writing and other skills in a low stress environment, and thus will be an improvement over the previous method of attempting to process all new skills in the field. It is anticipated that the failure rate of new officers will decrease due to the new program. Modifications to the training program are now being introduced to Field Training Officers (FTOs). Chief Johnson announced the acceptance of the TIIAP grant by City Council. This grant will allow the Department to introduce informational kiosks around Lansing for use by members of the community to access various information. The Chief announced that progress in negotiations with the FOP unions were going slow, but moving forward. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 17, 1998 Page 4 Several meetings have been held with the FOP Supervisory union, less with the FOP non-supervisory union, and the FOP 911 union negotiations are scheduled for arbitration in April. Commissioner Canady asked the Chief about the Department's mentoring program. Chief Johnson commended Lt. Julie Williams for the development of the program and he feels it is of great benefit to new officers. Commissioner Farhat-Reed commended the Department on the successful introduction of laptop computers to patrol staff. Mr. Jordan informed the Board that the Lansing State Journal suit was scheduled for a one-half day trial before Judge Houk on December 3. He stated that all parties have been deposed, the FOP has joined the case, and members of the Board will probably not be subpoenaed since the trial is only scheduled for one-half day. Mr. Jordan is confident that, regardless of verdict, an appeal will be filed. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES October 29, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, LPD Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bernard Brantley, Chief Investigator Candidate Commissioner Deb Frederick Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Channel 10 (Camera Operator) Lt. John Parks, LPD Carol Johnson, no address given CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. after having established a quorum. INTRODUCTION OF CHIEF INVESTIGATOR CANDIDATE Commissioner Walker introduced Bernard Brantley as finalist for the position of Chief Investigator. He thanked the Human Resources Committee for their diligence and hard work in bringing the selection process to this point. Board Member Open Discussion with Candidate - Individual Commissioners asked Mr. Brantley questions concerning his background, plans and expectations for the position. PUBLIC COMMENT Lt. John Parks, LPD, spoke in support of Mr. Brantley's candidacy, stating that he had had occasion to work with Mr. Brantley. A motion was passed excusing Mr. Brantley from discussion concerning his candidacy. The Board recessed for five minutes. Upon reconvening, a motion was made and seconded to move Mr. Brantley's name forward in the selection process. Discussion followed relating to the Board's responsibility once the job of Chief Investigator is filled. The Board will need to bring that person "up to speed" on anticipated challenges of the position as well as Board expectations for the position. There was a discussion of the Chief Investigator's role in matters of alleged violation of law by members of the Police Department. Chief Johnson explained that alleged violations of law by employees are investigated by Department detectives. Board members speculated on the Chief Investigator's development of relationships with the Department in general and the Chief and Legal Advisor specifically. There being no further discussion, the chair called the question and the motion was passed unanimously. Mr. Brantley rejoined the meeting and was advised of the unanimous decision. He thanked the Board and vowed to do a job which would reflect favorably on both the Board and the City. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:26 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES October 29, 1998 Members Present: ers Present: CITY C Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, LPD LERA Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bernard Brantley, Chief Investigator Candidate Commissioner Deb Frederick Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Channel 10 (Camera Operator) Lt. John Parks, LPD Carol Johnson, no address given CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. after having established a quorum. INTRODUCTION OF CHIEF INVESTIGATOR CANDIDATE Commissioner Walker introduced Bernard Brantley as finalist for the position of Chief Investigator. He thanked the Human Resources Committee for their diligence and hard work in bringing the selection process to this point. Board Member Open Discussion with Candidate - Individual Commissioners asked Mr. Brantley questions concerning his background, plans and expectations for the position. PUBLIC COMMENT Lt. John Parks, LPD, spoke in support of Mr. Brantley's candidacy, stating that he had had occasion to work with Mr. Brantley. A motion was passed excusing Mr. Brantley from discussion concerning his candidacy. The Board recessed for five minutes. Upon reconvening, a motion was made and seconded to move Mr. Brantley's name forward in the selection process. Discussion followed relating to the Board's responsibility once the job of Chief Investigator is filled. The Board will need to bring that person "up to speed" on anticipated challenges of the position as well as' Board expectations for the position. There was a discussion of the Chief Investigator's role in matters of alleged violation of law by members of the Police Department. Chief Johnson explained that alleged violations of law by employees are investigated by Department detectives. Board members speculated on the Chief Investigator's development of relationships with the Department in general and the Chief and Legal Advisor specifically. There being no further discussion, the chair called the question and the motion was passed unanimously. Mr. Brantley rejoined the meeting and was advised of the unanimous decision. He thanked the Board and vowed to do a job which would reflect favorably on both the Board and the City. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:26 p.m. 0J) 1NBOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS 120 W.Michigan Ave. Lansing,MI 48933JOG (517)483-4800 ¢- BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 1998 AT 5:30 P.M. AT THE SOUTH PRECINCT FOR THE PURPOSE OF INTERVIEWING THE FINAL CANDIDATE FOR THE POSITION OF CHIEF INVESTIGATOR. r _ c - cn i) n r� I October 22, 1998 M � N "Equal Opportunity Employer" BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES _ October 20, 1998 - -F� _ Lj Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, LPD " i'JI`iU CIi ir�' CLEM Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, LPD Legal Advisor Commissioner Roger Newcomb Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Derrick Quinney Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public Charlene Decker, 1127 Pleasant Grove Guests Grady Porter, 745 W Lenawee None. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of September 15, 1998, were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE None. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of September, 1998. Commissioners commented on the positive nature of recent correspondence from the public. Request from Council The Board reviewed a memo from City Council requesting one or more members attend an upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting related to questions on the annual report. Those Commissioners able to attend will do so. It was suggested that a document containing "bullet" information for presentation to the Council be prepared in advance. Commissioner Frederick agreed to prepare the document and will interview the Chief in preparation for it. Commissioner Canady will contact Teresa from the Council office to confirm Board members attendance. Letters Referred by Council The Board received a letter from Willie E. Jones, as well as LPD's response. The Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 20, 1998 Page 2 citizen had mistakenly identified an officer who ticketed him as someone associated with a restaurant with which he had had a bad experience. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS Commissioner Frederick had a question on the reason for recent employee departures from the 911 Communications Center. Chief Johnson and Deputy Chief Perry-Buse discussed various employee issues and pointed out that the recent departures were unrelated. Commissioner Newcomb asked for an update on the Tri-County Metro Narcotics funding dilemma. Chief Johnson reported that TCM members are discussing the alternative funding proposal put forth by LPD and are expected to have questions, but an agreement is expected to be forthcoming. Commissioners commented on the readability of the new reporting style used by the precincts. They feel the increased reporting of team activity keeps them better informed of neighborhood issues and officer involvement. Commissioner Newcomb expressed interest in neighborhood concerns related to activity around the Spiral Bar at Center and Clinton Streets. Chief Johnson reported on a recent neighborhood meeting attended by LPD officers. Commissioner Frederick asked to be informed of future meetings on this subject. Commissioner Canady noted Ruth Hallman's continued work in the GNA neighborhood and expressed his appreciation for her continued work with LPD. Communications Department Report The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board The Traffic Review Board did not meet in September. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee- Commissioners discussed the recent Award Ceremony and were pleased with the attendance. In the future, an attempt with be made to provide a more complete ceremony, perhaps in conduction with Police Memorial Week in May. A more elaborate ceremony should be possible and private support may be solicited. Budget Committee-Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that the budget process has begun. City Departments are requested to keep growth to three percent and keep new program proposal limited to three. A budget proposal will be presented to the full Board at its December meeting. Commissioner Canady brought up an article about grant programs. It was discussed that the idea might be presented to the Council's Committee of the Whole. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Walker announced that the Committee had decided upon a final candidate in Bernard Brantley for the position of Chief Investigator. He explained that any perceived delay in bringing a candidate forward could be explained by 1) the difficulty in establishing definitions, structure and criteria for a brand new position and, 2) the comfort level with which the Committee felt it needed in bringing forth a final candidate. A special meeting of the Board will be held on Thursday, October 29, for the purpose of interviewing Mr. Brantley. Incentives Committee - Commissioner Mejorado reported that, over the past three years, 65 City employees have taken advantage of the L-HOPE program, which advances employees up to $5,000 toward the purchase of a home in the City. Twenty-four of these were LPD employees. Commissioner Canady shared information on a Los Angeles program which advanced employees a loan for home ownership down payments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 20, 1998 Page 3 Complaint Sub-Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that monthly meetings with Internal Affairs continue and are beneficial. Commissioners asked about the repetition of one case number in the summary report. Commissioner Frederick explained that a single incident can result in several IA cases depending on the number of citizens and officers involved. She explained that the particular incident in question was a felony stop which has prompted a reexamination of procedure and resulted in a proposed new procedure. Commissioner Frederick noted that the brochure relating to the complaint process which is presently being distributed will need to be revised upon the hiring of the Chief Investigator. She also mentioned that the Board will need to continue monitoring complaints against LPD even with the hiring of the Chief Investigator. Commission Canady suggested that monthly meetings may be necessary with both IA and the Chief Investigator. Commissioner Walker suggested having some reporting requirements in place when this person comes on board. OTHER BUSINESS Draft / Interim Procedures - Chief Johnson explained that the memo concerning Felony and High Risk Stops was appropriate as, even though officers are well trained in the "how to" for conducting felony stops, increased emphasis was felt necessary on the "when to" decision. Commissioner Newcomb mentioned his support for having officers write reports for each felony stop. The Board received the memo and placed it on file. Commissioners expressed their gratitude for the draft of an Organization and Administrative Procedure as it clarifies roles (including theirs) within the Department. Action on the procedure was tabled until the next meeting. Commissioners requested that a copy of the procedure being rescinded be supplied with their next monthly information packet. Commissioners suggested that clarification of LPD roles and procedures would be good article information for The Callbox. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Walker - Noting that he recently returned from an enjoyable European vacation, had no further comments. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Expressed her gratitude to Ofc. Paul Arnold for keeping Neighborhood Watch people aware of reporting requirements. Member of the Neighborhood Watch Board were able to take Ofc. Arnold's information and act upon it, preventing many Neighborhood Watch areas from losing their accreditation. Commissioner Frederick - None. Commissioner Quinney - Complimented the Department on its Award Ceremony and asked the Chief for an update on negotiations with the FOP bargaining units. Chief Johnson assured him that an update would be included in his administrative report. Commissioner Newcomb - Asked for clarification on the authority of the Chief Investigator and inquired as to the willingness of officers to talk to the Chief Investigator. Chief Johnson and Paul McComb answered by assuring him that, as an extension of the Board of Police Commissioners, the Chief Investigator was authorized to investigate complaints. Discipline will remain a Department responsibility and the Board will continue to monitor policies and procedures as necessary. It is anticipated that officers will be open with the Chief Investigator, either voluntarily or as ordered by their superiors. Commissioner Canady - Complimented the Department on the merit of the monthly report as now written. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 20, 1998 Page 4 Commissioner Meiorado - Attended an LPD community policing meeting and felt it was very worthwhile. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson introduced Helen Perry-Buse as the Department's new Deputy Chief. The primary responsibility of the Deputy Chief will be the administrative units of the Department. The Chief feels that Deputy Chief Perry-Buse's wealth of experience in the Department will be very beneficial to the City of Lansing. The Chief expects to announce a replacement for Chief Perry-Buse's captain position within the next week or so. FOP negotiations are continuing. FOP-91 1 negotiations are going to arbitration within the next month or two. Meetings with the FOP-Supervisory unit have been frequent and progress is being made. FOP-Non-supervisory unit has not met as much, but some progress in being made. Training is continuing including in-service training, which covers several areas including felony stops, responsibility,expectations, problem-solving, and providing officers with information on accessing data. A new sergeant school is also currently in session, as is a training program for the Field Training Officers. Board members are invited to sit in on any LPD training sessions. A post-academy training program is being introduced to address LPD specific items not covered in the Mid- Michigan Academy. It is a "hands on" program which includes things such as meeting with neighborhood associations, a geographic orientation to the City and even working in a soup kitchen in order to better understand programs within the City. It is hoped that LPD can achieve a better success rate for new recruits. Operational and administrative procedures are being modified to reflect ongoing changes in the community. Grants are being pursued and received, including over $0.5 million from the Department of Commerce for a kiosk system which allows members of the community to access for referral to various service providers around the City. Deputy Chief Perry-Buse offered her assistance to the Board as needed. PUBLIC COMMENT Charlene Decker- Suggested that public information from the Police Department needs to be better distributed, including The Cal/box. (For copies of The Cal/box, Commission Farhat-Reed suggested she contact her Neighborhood Watch coordinator.) She recommended that the Chief Investigator give public reports at televised meetings of the City Council. She stressed the importance of the Chief Investigator position and that the public be given as much information as possible. She asked for access to job descriptions related to the Police Department and Commissioner Canady offered to provide her with a copy of the new administrative procedure. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES O er 20, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, LPD Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, LPD Legal Advisor Commissioner Roger Newcom Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Derrick Quinne Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public Charlene Decker, 1127 Pleasant Grove Guests Grady Porter, 745 W Lenawee None. CALL TO ORDER r— D__ Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. after having establishecE_J�l quorum,..;, PUBLIC COMMENT None. c-) . l ADDITIONS TO AGENDA m None. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of September 15, 1998, were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE None. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of September, 1998. Commissioners commented on the positive nature of recent correspondence from the public. Request from Council The Board reviewed a memo from City Council requesting one or more members attend an upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting related to questions on the annual report. Those Commissioners able to attend will do so. It was suggested that a document containing "bullet" information for presentation to the Council be prepared in advance. Commissioner Frederick agreed to prepare the document and will interview the Chief in preparation for it. Commissioner Canady will contact Teresa from the Council office to confirm Board members attendance. Letters Referred by Council The Board received a letter from Willie E. Jones, as well as LPD's response. The Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 20, 1998 Page 2 citizen had mistakenly identified an officer who ticketed him as someone associated with a restaurant with which he had had a bad experience. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS Commissioner Frederick had a question on the reason for recent employee departures from the 911 Communications Center. Chief Johnson and Deputy Chief Perry-Buse discussed various employee issues and pointed out that the recent departures were unrelated. Commissioner Newcomb asked for an update on the Tri-County Metro Narcotics funding dilemma. Chief Johnson reported that TCM members are discussing the alternative funding proposal put forth by LPD and are expected to have questions, but an agreement is expected to be forthcoming. Commissioners commented on the readability of the new reporting style used by the precincts. They feel the increased reporting of team activity keeps them better informed of neighborhood issues and officer involvement. Commissioner Newcomb expressed interest in neighborhood concerns related to activity around the Spiral Bar at Center and Clinton Streets. Chief Johnson reported on a recent neighborhood meeting attended by LPD officers. Commissioner Frederick asked to be informed of future meetings on this subject. Commissioner Canady noted Ruth Hallman's continued work in the GNA neighborhood and expressed his appreciation for her continued work with LPD. Communications Department Report The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board The Traffic Review Board did not meet in September. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - Commissioners discussed the recent Award Ceremony and were pleased with the attendance. In the future, an attempt with be made to provide a more complete ceremony, perhaps in conduction with Police Memorial Week in May. A more elaborate ceremony should be possible and private support may be solicited. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that the budget process has begun. City Departments are requested to keep growth to three percent and keep new program proposal limited to three. A budget proposal will be presented to the full Board at its December meeting. Commissioner Canady brought up an article about grant programs. It was discussed that the idea might be presented to the Council's Committee of the Whole. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Walker announced that the Committee had decided upon a final candidate in Bernard Brantley for the position of Chief Investigator. He explained that any perceived delay in bringing a candidate forward could be explained by 1) the difficulty in establishing definitions, structure and criteria for a brand new position and, 2) the comfort level with which the Comfittee felt it needed in bringing forth a final candidate. A special meeting of the Board will be held on Thursday, October 29, for the purpose of interviewing Mr. Brantley. Incentives Committee - Commissioner Mejorado reported that, over the past three years, 65 City employees have taken advantage of the L-HOPE program, which advances employees up to $5,000 toward the purchase of a home in the City. Twenty-four of these were LPD employees. Commissioner Canady shared information on a Los Angeles program which advanced employees a loan for home ownership down payments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 20, 1998 Page 3 Complaint Sub-Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that monthly meetings with Internal Affairs continue and are beneficial. Commissioners asked about the repetition of one case number in the summary report. Commissioner Frederick explained that a single incident can result in several IA cases depending on the number of citizens and officers involved. She explained that the particular incident in question was a felony stop which has prompted a reexamination of procedure and resulted in a proposed new procedure. Commissioner Frederick noted that the brochure relating to the complaint process which is presently being distributed will need to be revised upon the hiring of the Chief Investigator. She also mentioned that the Board will need to continue monitoring complaints against LPD even with the hiring of the Chief Investigator. Commission Canady suggested that monthly meetings may be necessary with both IA and the Chief Investigator. Commissioner Walker suggested having some reporting requirements in place when this person comes on board. OTHER BUSINESS Draft / Interim Procedures - Chief Johnson explained that the memo concerning Felony and High Risk Stops was appropriate as, even though officers are well trained in the "how to" for conducting felony stops, increased emphasis was felt necessary on the "when to decision. Commissioner Newcomb mentioned his support for having officers write reports for each felony stop. The Board received the memo and placed it on file. Commissioners expressed their gratitude for the draft of an Organization and Administrative Procedure as it clarifies roles (including theirs) within the Department. Action on the procedure was tabled until the next meeting. Commissioners requested that a copy of the procedure being rescinded be supplied with their next monthly information packet. Commissioners suggested that clarification of LPD roles and procedures would be good article information for The Callbox. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Walker - Noting that he recently returned from an enjoyable European vacation, had no further comments. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Expressed her gratitude to Ofc. Paul Arnold for keeping Neighborhood Watch people aware of reporting requirements. Member of the Neighborhood Watch Board were able to take Ofc. Arnold's information and act upon it, preventing many Neighborhood Watch areas from losing their accreditation. Commissioner Frederick - None. Commissioner_ Quinney - Complimented the Department on its Award Ceremony and asked the Chief for an update on negotiations with the FOP bargaining units. Chief Johnson assured him that an update would be included in his administrative report. Commissioner Newcomb - Asked for clarification on the authority of the Chief Investigator and inquired as to the willingness of officers to talk to the Chief Investigator. Chief Johnson and Paul McComb answered by assuring him that, as an extension of the Board of Police Commissioners, the Chief Investigator was authorized to investigate complaints. Discipline will remain a Department responsibility and the Board will continue to monitor policies and procedures as necessary. It is anticipated that officers will be open with the Chief Investigator, either voluntarily or as ordered by their superiors. Commissioner Canady - Complimented the Department on the merit of the monthly report as now written. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 20, 1998 Page 4 Commissioner Mejorado - Attended an LPD community policing meeting and felt it was very worthwhile. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson introduced Helen Perry-Buse as the Department's new Deputy Chief. The primary responsibility of the Deputy Chief will be the administrative units of the Department. The Chief feels that Deputy Chief Perry-Buse's wealth of experience in the Department will be very beneficial to the City of Lansing. The Chief expects to announce a replacement for Chief Perry-Buse's captain position within the next week or so. FOP negotiations are continuing. FOP-91 1 negotiations are going to arbitration within the next month or two. Meetings with the FOP-Supervisory unit have been frequent and progress is being made. FOP-Non-supervisory unit has not met as much, but some progress in being made. Training is continuing including in-service training, which covers several areas including felony stops, responsibility, expectations, problem-solving, and providing officers with information on accessing data. A new sergeant school is also currently in session, as is a training program for the Field Training Officers. Board members are invited to sit in on any LPD training sessions. A post-academy training program is being introduced to address LPD specific items not covered in the Mid- Michigan Academy. It is a "hands on" program which includes things such as meeting with neighborhood associations, a geographic orientation to the City and even working in a soup kitchen in order to better understand programs within the City. It is hoped that LPD can achieve a better success rate for new recruits. Operational and administrative procedures are being modified to reflect ongoing changes in the community. Grants are being pursued and received, including over $0.5 million from the Department of Commerce for a kiosk system which allows members of the community to access for referral to various service providers around the City. Deputy Chief Perry-Buse offered her assistance to the Board as needed. PUBLIC COMMENT Charlene Decker - Suggested that public information from the Police Department needs to be better distributed, including The Cal/box. (For copies of The Cal/box, Commission Farhat-Reed suggested she contact her Neighborhood Watch coordinator.) She recommended that the Chief Investigator give public reports at televised meetings of the City Council. She stressed the importance of the Chief Investigator position and that the public be given as much information as possible. She asked for access to job descriptions related to the Police Department and Commissioner Canady offered to provide her with a copy of the new administrative procedure. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m. P�� �� � � c�� 2 � BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES September 15, 1998 2:y "';i Members Present: Others Present: fa Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Assistant Chief Andrew Georb ,',�R,D.- C"TyCLER Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary �( Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, LPD Legal Advisor Commissioner Roger Newcomb Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Derrick Quinney Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public None. Members Excused: Commissioner Maria Mejorado Guests Lt. Joel Maatman, FOP Sgt. Eric Longoria, LPD Special Operations CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of August 19, 1998, were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lt. Maatman introduced Sgt. Eric Longoria, new to Special Operations. He also inquired as to whether scores received on tests taken by FOP Supervisory candidates vieing for the position of Deputy Chief were available for their review. Personnel Director Bommarito said they were. Lt. Maatman expressed the union's concern with the confidentiality of Internal Affairs discussions in light of a lawsuit now pending against the Department whereby the Lansing State Journal is seeking access to IA records. Paul McComb provided the Board with background information relevant to the lawsuit. Pretrial is scheduled for early November with the trial scheduled for November 23. The judge has indicated that, regardless of the decision, an immediate stay will be executed to allow for appeals to be filed. Lt. Maatman informed the Board that current contract negotiations are "going along very, very well." COMMUNICATIONS Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 15, 1998 Page 2 Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of August, 1998. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS August 1998 Commissioner Quinney had a question on the Riverpoint Neighborhood's concern regarding an unregistered sex offender. Assistant Chief George gave the Board an update on the situation. He commended Officer Frank Mobley's diligence in monitoring the situation and working with the neighborhood. Paul McComb discussed the delicate constitutional issues of restricting someone from existing in a given geographic area. Commissioner Quinney asked for an update regarding drug trafficking in the Genessee Neighborhood. Assistant Chief George told the Board that this area is troublesome in that as soon as a drug house is closed, another springs up. LPD continues to dedicate both patrol officer time and special operations time to the area. Commissioner Newcomb commended LPD for their quick response to neighborhood problems. Assistant Chief George has checked with officers to ensure that attendance at community meetings remains a priority. The Board received and placed on file Departmental Highlights for the month of August 1998. Communications Department Report The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - Commissioner Mejorado (in absentia) reminded Commissioners to attend the awards ceremony on Wednesday, September 30, 1998, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. Commissioner Canady again stressed the importance of having the Board well represented at the ceremony. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Human Resources Committee Update on Chief Investigator's Position - Commissioner Walker stated the subcommittee continues to search for the best candidate to bring to the Board. "Round table" discussions were held with two candidates. Their responses to the Committee's questions and follow-up questions were not definitive enough for the committee to place a name before the full Board at this time. The committee has decided to review other applications meeting selection criteria and grant written exams to them for possible inclusion in the interview process. The previously mentioned two candidates have not been eliminated from the process. A final candidate will be presented to the full Board very soon. Commissioner Quinney asked Ms. Bommarito what, in her opinion, was causing the delay in filling this position as quickly as many outside observers would like. Ms. Bommarito discussed the extensive advertising and recruiting mechanisms used for a position of this stature. She explained that this position is a difficult one to fill and that a lengthy process is not unusual for such a unique position. She commented that the length of the process should not be taken to mean that the candidates are not qualified, but only that care is being taken to find the best candidate. Commissioner Frederick commented as a member of the committee on how tricky it is to find the perfect combination of investigative experience and community relations skills. Commissioner Walker expressed his support for the diverse perspectives being expressed by members of the search committee and offered to speak personally with anyone questioning the timeliness or process used by the committee. Commissioner Farhat-Reed expressed her pleasure at working with people as professional as Commissioner Walker and Director Bommarito. Incentives Committee - Commissioner Mejorado was not in attendance nor did she have a report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 15, 1998 Page 3 Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for August 1998 - Commissioner Frederick stated that her sub-committee had met with Internal Affairs regarding August complaints against the Department and had nothing significant to bring to the Board's attention. She commented on how the different members of the committee were able to add new scope to the questions asked of the LPD Internal Affairs Unit. She also commended LPD for making changes in procedure based on the results of complaints being looked at. Commissioner Canady expressed his gratitude to the members of the Internal Affairs Unit for being well prepared and very forthcoming in assisting the committee. Commissioner Newcomb concurred and commented on how the perception of police behavior can be a large factor in community relations. Commissioner Canady and Assistant Chief George discussed the importance (and difficulty) in finding personnel to staff the Internal Affairs Unit when openings occur due to retirement or promotion. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Expressed her thanks to those who attended her Neighborhood Watch party. She complimented Lt. Magnus on his handling of a recent incident involving two vehicles with combative occupants present in the neighborhood in which both the commissioner and the lieutenant live. Commissioner Farhat- Reed also complimented Ofc. Brian Whitsitt on the professionalism he showed throughout his shift on the evening she did a ride-along with him. He was also instrumental in getting the facilities of an apartment / townhouse complex better lit and landscaped to offer less coverage for thieves. Ofc. Whitsitt's personableness and awareness of community issues endorse the strategy of expecting all patrol officers to serve as "community policing" officers. She encourages others to participate in the ride-along program. Commissioner Frederick - Expressed her gratitude that an LPD officer was at the right place / at the right time to apprehend a bad driver on Pennsylvania Avenue. She also expressed her concern that LPD needs to be sure to comment when asked concerning proposals for new developments. This will ensure that neighborhoods are designed with sufficient access for law enforcement personnel. Commissioner Newcomb - None. Commissioner Quinnev - Complimented the Department on its team approach and appreciated the narratives provided in the monthly Departmental Highlights. Commissioner Walker - None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Assistant Chief George addressed the Board regarding the importance of the Crimestopper program, pointing out that calls to the Crimestopper line led to the arrest of a suspect in the recent murder in which the victim was discovered on Fielding Street. He also indicated that information has been supplied through Crimestoppers which has advanced the case concerning a murder at Bailey and Baker Streets. He pointed out that the program is able to offer informants cash payment only because of donations and that the fund is dangerously low at the present time. He informed the Board that, because the revenues from drug forfeitures have been insufficient to fund the Tri- County Metro Narcotics Unit, an alternative is being proposed this week which would have the participating counties fund the unit based on population base. Any forfeiture revenues would be divided based on the percentage contributed to fund operating expenses. Commissioner Canady, with the Board's support, expressed his appreciation for the job Assistant Chief is doing. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 15, 1998 Page 4 OTHER BUSINESS None. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES September 15, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Assistant Chief Andrew George, LPD Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, LPD Legal Advisor Commissioner Roger Newcomb Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Derrick Quinney Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public r None. 1 Members Excused: S-2 r Commissioner Maria Mejorado Guests -< Lt. Joel Maatman, FOP Sgt. Eric Longoria, LPD Special Operations70 c� 7� p CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of August 19, 1998, were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lt. Maatman introduced Sgt. Eric Longoria, new to Special Operations. He also inquired as to whether scores received on tests taken by FOP Supervisory candidates vieing for the position of Deputy Chief were available for their review. Personnel Director Bommarito said they were. Lt. Maatman expressed the union's concern with the confidentiality of Internal Affairs discussions in light of a lawsuit now pending against the Department whereby the Lansing State Journal is seeking access to IA records. Paul McComb provided the Board with background information relevant to the lawsuit. Pretrial is scheduled for early November with the trial scheduled for November 23. The judge has indicated that, regardless of the decision, an immediate stay will be executed to allow for appeals to be filed. Lt. Maatman informed the Board that current contract negotiations are "going along very, very well." COMMUNICATIONS Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 15, 1998 Page 2 Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of August, 1998. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS August 1998 Commissioner Quinney had a question on the Riverpoint Neighborhood's concern regarding an unregistered sex offender. Assistant Chief George gave the Board an update on the situation. He commended Officer Frank Mobley's diligence in monitoring the situation and working with the neighborhood. Paul McComb discussed the delicate constitutional issues of restricting someone from existing in a given geographic area. Commissioner Quinney asked for an update regarding drug trafficking in the Genessee Neighborhood. Assistant Chief George told the Board that this area is troublesome in that as soon as a drug house is closed, another springs up. LPD continues to dedicate both patrol officer time and special operations time to the area. Commissioner Newcomb commended LPD for their quick response to neighborhood problems. Assistant Chief George has checked with officers to ensure that attendance at community meetings remains a priority. The Board received and placed on file Departmental Highlights for the month of August 1998. Communications Department Report The Communications Report was accepted and placed on file. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - Commissioner Mejorado (in absentia) reminded Commissioners to attend the awards ceremony on Wednesday, September 30, 1998, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. Commissioner Canady again stressed the importance of having the Board well represented at the ceremony. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Human Resources Committee Update on Chief Investigator's Position - Commissioner Walker stated the subcommittee continues to search for the best candidate to bring to the Board. "Round table" discussions were held with two candidates. Their responses to the Committee's questions and follow-up questions were not definitive enough for the committee to place a name before the full Board at this time. The committee has decided to review other applications meeting selection criteria and grant written exams to them for possible inclusion in the interview process. The previously mentioned two candidates have not been eliminated from the process. A final candidate will be presented to the full Board very soon. Commissioner Quinney asked Ms. Bommarito what, in her opinion, was causing the delay in filling this position as quickly as many outside observers would like. Ms. Bommarito discussed the extensive advertising and recruiting mechanisms used for a position of this stature. She explained that this position is a difficult one to fill and that a lengthy process is not unusual for such a unique position. She commented that the length of the process should not be taken to mean that the candidates are not qualified, but only that care is being taken to find the best candidate. Commissioner Frederick commented as a member of the committee on how tricky it is to find the perfect combination of investigative experience and community relations skills. Commissioner Walker expressed his support for the diverse perspectives being expressed by members of the search committee and offered to speak personally with anyone questioning the timeliness or process used by the committee. Commissioner Farhat-Reed expressed her pleasure at working with people as professional as Commissioner Walker and Director Bommarito. Incentives Committee - Commissioner Mejorado was not in attendance nor did she have a report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 15, 1998 Page 3 Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for August 1998 - Commissioner Frederick stated that her sub-committee had met with Internal Affairs regarding August complaints against the Department and had nothing significant to bring to the Board's attention. She commented on how the different members of the committee were able to add new scope to the questions asked of the LPD Internal Affairs Unit. She also commended LPD for making changes in procedure based on the results of complaints being looked at. Commissioner Canady expressed his gratitude to the members of the Internal Affairs Unit for being well prepared and very forthcoming in assisting the committee. Commissioner Newcomb concurred and commented on how the perception of police behavior can be a large factor in community relations. Commissioner Canady and Assistant Chief George discussed the importance land difficulty) in finding personnel to staff the Internal Affairs Unit when openings occur due to retirement or promotion. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Expressed her thanks to those who attended her Neighborhood Watch party. She complimented Lt. Magnus on his handling of a recent incident involving two vehicles with combative occupants present in the neighborhood in which both the commissioner and the lieutenant live. Commissioner Farhat- Reed also complimented Ofc. Brian Whitsitt on the professionalism he showed throughout his shift on the evening she did a ride-along with him. He was also instrumental in getting the facilities of an apartment / townhouse complex better lit and landscaped to offer less coverage for thieves. Ofc. Whitsitt's personableness and awareness of community issues endorse the strategy of expecting all patrol officers to serve as "community policing" officers. She encourages others to participate in the ride-along program. Commissioner Frederick - Expressed her gratitude that an LPD officer was at the right place / at the right time to apprehend a bad driver on Pennsylvania Avenue. She also expressed her concern that LPD needs to be sure to comment when asked concerning proposals for new developments. This will ensure that neighborhoods are designed with sufficient access for law enforcement personnel. Commissioner Newcomb - None. Commissioner Quinney - Complimented the Department on its team approach and appreciated the narratives provided in the monthly Departmental Highlights. Commissioner Walker - None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Assistant Chief George addressed the Board regarding the importance of the Crimestopper program, pointing out that calls to the Crimestopper line led to the arrest of a suspect in the recent murder in which the victim was discovered on Fielding Street. He also indicated that information has been supplied through Crimestoppers which has advanced the case concerning a murder at Bailey and Baker Streets. He pointed out that the program is able to offer informants cash payment only because of donations and that the fund is dangerously low at the present time. He informed the Board that, because the revenues from drug forfeitures have been insufficient to fund the Tri- County Metro Narcotics Unit, an alternative is being proposed this week which would have the participating counties fund the unit based on population base. Any forfeiture revenues would be divided based on the percentage contributed to fund operating expenses. Commissioner Canady, with the Board's support, expressed his appreciation for the job Assistant Chief is doing. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 15, 1998 Page 4 OTHER BUSINESS None. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. MEMORANDUM TO: Dixie Gilmore, City Clerk's Office FROM: Vicky Gill, Police Department DATE: June 19, 1998 RE: Board of Police Commissioner Minutes Attached are minutes from the May 19, 1998, meeting which were reviewed and approved at the June 16, meeting. Also attached is a draft copy of the minutes from the June 16, meeting. :vg Ca j Ni ♦ r J r tz � CJ /"(6eSe f-\\ 10, apse (PA UIAD BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES August 18, 1998 « , I°91LI: 5 9 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, LPD �f;�r�E'�r �� i` CLERK Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, LPD Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Joseph Marutiak, 225 Allen Charlene Decker, 2711 Pleasant Grove Guests Priscilla Holmes, 220 Reo Ave Assistant Chief Andy George, LPD Capt. Mark Alley, LPD South Precinct Sgt. Craig Baylis, LPD Personnel & Training CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT Commissioner Farhat-Reed introduced Joseph Marutiak, President of OPEIU 459, who was in attendance to observe the meeting. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA A special presentation for the purpose of introducing participants in the expanded LPD chaplain program was accepted as an addition to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of July 21, 1998, were amended, accepted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Commissioner Frederick made the Board aware of changes to the September, 1997, document which occur in the newest version dated June 12, 1998. Respective unions have been notified of all changes. Approval of changes was moved and accepted by the Board. It was moved and supported that the complaint procedure be reviewed in six months or sooner for possible revision. Motion passed. Request for Information on L-HOPE Program A review of the program written by Personnel Director Sharon Bommarito was accepted and placed on file. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sgt. Craig Baylis informed the Board that negotiations with the FOP-Supervisory Union were scheduled to begin Thursday, August 20, at 1:00 p.m. SPECIAL PRESENTATION Sgt. Craig Baylis introduced members of the expanded LPD chaplain program including William Renfrew, Ed Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 18, 1998 Page 2 Owens, and Gary Uptigrove. Members not present include Clyde Carnegie, John Byars and Del Gregory. Chief Johnson expressed his support for the program as an important means of offering LPD spiritual assistance in times of need. Official introduction of the expanded program will occur during the September Awards Ceremony. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of July, 1998. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS July 1998 The Board received and placed on file departmental highlights for the month of July 1998. Board members mentioned that a report from the LPD Budget / Payroll Unit had previously not been included. Jim DeLine explained its contents. The Board had questions on the information now being made available by the precincts and the lack of consistency in style. Chief Johnson and Jim DeLine will work with the precincts to achieve a consist style beginning next month. Communications Department Report No monthly report was submitted. Chief Johnson informed the Board that computer problems were being resolved and this report should resume next month. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reminded Commissioners to attend the awards ceremony on Wednesday, September 30, 1998, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. Commissioner Canady stressed the importance of having the Board well represented at the ceremony. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Human Resources Committee Update on Chief Investigator's Position - Commissioner Walker stated the subcommittee had intended to have final candidates tonight for the Board's selection. The committee has decided to conduct more interviews before final candidates are determined. A special meeting of the Board will be called provided final candidates are determined before the next regular board meeting. Incentives Committee - Commissioner Mejorado had no report. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for July 1998 - Commissioner Frederick stated that her sub-committee had met with Internal Affairs regarding July complaints against the Department and had nothing significant to bring to the Board's attention. Complaint Brochure - Commissioner Frederick reported that LPD Complaint Brochures have been completed and are being circulated. The brochure will need to be revised once a Chief Investigator is on board. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Mejorado - None. Commissioner Frederick - None. Commissioner Newcomb - None. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 18, 1998 Page 3 Commissioner Quinney - requested information concerning the FOP negotiation and contract periods. Chief Johnson supplied the requested information. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Requested of LPD members present if anyone knew of a mechanism for tracking of Department retirees. Assistant George mentioned that a list is maintained and is utilized for the annual Retirement Dinner. Commissioner Walker - None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson welcomed Andrew George to the role of Assistant Chief and expressed his pleasure in having Andy on board as he is a keen asset to the Department with a depth of experience in community policing and other areas beneficial to the City. Assistant Chief George invited Board members to stop by his office. The Chief discussed the vacant Deputy Chief position. Four to five candidates will be interviewed next Tuesday. The community's reaction to the reassignment of three community policing officers was discussed by the Chief. He made reference to his Point of View article in the Lansing State Journal and discussed how all team officers are expected to engage in "community policing". This will particularly apply as additional officers are assigned to patrol positions. Time for officers to engage in community policing and problem solving activities will be made more available as more officers are added to patrol teams. Training in community policing will intensify. Commissioner Newcomb discussed the importance of countering the perception of community officer redeployment. The Chief mentioned how officer retirements added to the misconception of community policing officers departing from neighborhoods. Commission Frederick stressed the importance of communicating to neighborhood groups which officers / sergeants are on the respective teams and can act as "point persons" for contact with concerns. Assistant Chief George outlined upcoming training for officers relative to these issues and others, as well as training in the introduction of lap top computers designed to give officers more patrol / problem solving time. Jim DeLine announced the Department's annual golf outing. As in the past few year's, proceeds will benefit the Police Athletic League. OTHER BUSINESS Annual Report - The Board approved the draft contingent upon the addition of the Board to the organization chart. The letter of submission from the Board chair was not included. Jim DeLine agreed to research its whereabouts. PUBLIC COMMENT Priscilla Holmes - Requested that the reassigned community policing officers be reinstated. She feels crime is up in "those neighborhoods" and that expecting community members to make a transition to contacting team members will "take a long time." Charlene Decker - Asked for a copy of the complaint procedure. Commissioner Canady said he would provide one. She requested an update on recruiting. Chief Johnson let her know that eight minority and female recruits are presently in the Police Academy. She inquired as to the availability of disposition of complaint information to members of the public. Commissioner Frederick assured her that that information is made Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 18, 1998 Page 4 available to the complainant. She inquired as to the pay of chaplains and was informed that it is a volunteer program. She asked about LPD fees. Jim DeLine informed her that fees are directed to the general fund and that budgets and annual financial reports are available to the general public. She asked about the public's right to attend the Chief Investigator interviews and Commissioner Canady assured her that the interviews were open to the public and meeting times are posted. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. �._ �—.�.•�gel BOARD OF MEETLICE ING MINUTES ISIONERS Lih,4�`'iu CLERK August 18, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson, LPD Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, LPD Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Sharon Bommarito, City of Lansing Personnel Director Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Joseph Marutiak, 225 Allen Charlene Decker, 2711 Pleasant Grove Guests Priscilla Holmes, 220 Reo Ave Assistant Chief Andy George, LPD Capt. Mark Alley, LPD South Precinct Sgt. Craig Baylis, LPD Personnel & Training CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT Commissioner Farhat-Reed introduced Joseph Marutiak, President of OPEIU 459, who was in attendance to observe the meeting. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA A special presentation for the purpose of introducing participants in the expanded LPD chaplain program was accepted as an addition to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of July 21, 1998, were amended, accepted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Commissioner Frederick made the Board aware of changes to the September, 1997, document which occur in the newest version dated June 12, 1998. Respective unions have been notified of all changes. Approval of changes was moved and accepted by the Board. It was moved and supported that the complaint procedure be reviewed in six months or sooner for possible revision. Motion passed. Request for Information on L-HOPE Program A review of the program written by Personnel Director Sharon Bommarito was accepted and placed on file. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sgt. Craig Baylis informed the Board that negotiations with the FOP-Supervisory Union were scheduled to begin Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 18, 1998 Page 2 Thursday, August 20, at 1:00 p.m. SPECIAL PRESENTATION Sgt. Craig Baylis introduced members of the expanded LPD chaplain program including William Renfrew, Ed Owens, and Gary Uptigrove. Members not present include Clyde Carnegie, John Byars and Del Gregory. Chief Johnson expressed his support for the program as an important means of offering LPD spiritual assistance in times of need. Official introduction of the expanded program will occur during the September Awards Ceremony. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of July, 1998. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS July 1998 The Board received and placed on file departmental highlights for the month of July 1998. Board members mentioned that a report from the LPD Budget / Payroll Unit had previously not been included. Jim DeLine explained its contents. The Board had questions on the information now being made available by the precincts and the lack of consistency in style. Chief Johnson and Jim DeLine will work with the precincts to achieve a consist style beginning next month. Communications Department Report No monthly report was submitted. Chief Johnson informed the Board that computer problems were being resolved and this report should resume next month. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. COMMITTEE REPORTS Awards & Citations Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reminded Commissioners to attend the awards ceremony on Wednesday, September 30, 1998, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. Commissioner Canady stressed the importance of having the Board well represented at the ceremony. Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Human Resources Committee Update on Chief Investigator's Position - Commissioner Walker stated the subcommittee had intended to have final candidates tonight for the Board's selection. The committee has decided to conduct more interviews before final candidates are determined. A special meeting of the Board will be called provided final candidates are determined before the next regular board meeting. Incentives Committee - Commissioner Mejorado had no report. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for July 1998 - Commissioner Frederick stated that her sub-committee had met with Internal Affairs regarding July complaints against the Department and had nothing significant to bring to the Board's attention. Complaint Brochure - Commissioner Frederick reported that LPD Complaint Brochures have been completed and are being circulated. The brochure will need to be revised once a Chief Investigator is on board. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Mejorado - None. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 18, 1998 Page 3 Commissioner Frederick - None. Commissioner Newcomb - None. Commissioner Quinney - requested information concerning the FOP negotiation and contract periods. Chief Johnson supplied the requested information. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Requested of LPD members present if anyone knew of a mechanism for tracking of Department retirees. Assistant George mentioned that a list is maintained and is utilized for the annual Retirement Dinner. Commissioner Walker - None. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson welcomed Andrew George to the role of Assistant Chief and expressed his pleasure in having Andy on board as he is a keen asset to the Department with a depth of experience in community policing and other areas beneficial to the City. Assistant Chief George invited Board members to stop by his office. The Chief discussed the vacant Deputy Chief position. Four to five candidates will be interviewed next Tuesday. The community's reaction to the reassignment of three community policing officers was discussed by the Chief. He made reference to his Point of View article in the Lansing State Journal and discussed how all team officers are expected to engage in "community policing". This will particularly apply as additional officers are assigned to patrol positions. Time for officers to engage in community policing and problem solving activities will be made more available as more officers are added to patrol teams. Training in community policing will intensify. Commissioner Newcomb discussed the importance of countering the perception of community officer redeployment. The Chief mentioned how officer retirements added to the misconception of community policing officers departing from neighborhoods. Commission Frederick stressed the importance of communicating to neighborhood groups which officers / sergeants are on the respective teams and can act as "point persons" for contact with concerns. Assistant Chief George outlined upcoming training for officers relative to these issues and others, as well as training in the introduction of lap top computers designed to give officers more patrol / problem solving time. Jim DeLine announced the Department's annual golf outing. As in the past few year's, proceeds will benefit the Police Athletic League. OTHER BUSINESS Annual Report - The Board approved the draft contingent upon the addition of the Board to the organization chart. The letter of submission from the Board chair was not included. Jim DeLine agreed to research its whereabouts. PUBLIC COMMENT Priscilla Holmes - Requested that the reassigned community policing officers be reinstated. She feels crime is up in "those neighborhoods" and that expecting community members to make a transition to contacting team members will "take a long time." Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 18, 1998 Page 4 Charlene Decker - Asked for a copy of the complaint procedure. Commissioner Canady said he would provide one. She requested an update on recruiting. Chief Johnson let her know that eight minority and female recruits are presently in the Police Academy. She inquired as to the availability of disposition of complaint information to members of the public. Commissioner Frederick assured her that that information is made available to the complainant. She inquired as to the pay of chaplains and was informed that it is a volunteer program. She asked about LPD fees. Jim DeLine informed her that fees are directed to the general fund and that budgets and annual financial reports are available to the general public. She asked about the public's right to attend the Chief Investigator interviews and Commissioner Canady assured her that the interviews were open to the public and meeting times are posted. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE, COMMISSIONENt-C E IVE D 120 W.Michigan Ave. Lansing,MI 48933 cog SER 18 AIN I I: 56 (517)483-4800 arc I LA1�51riG CITY CLERK H BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE # 1 THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS' HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A MEETING IN ORDER TO SCORE ADDITIONAL APPLICANT TESTS FOR THE POSITION OF CHIEF INVESTIGATOR ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 1998, AT 8:00 A.M. IN THE CITY CLERK CONFERENCE ROOM ON THE NINTH FLOOR OF CITY HALL, 124 W MICHIGAN AVENUE, LANSING. NOTICE # 2 THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS' HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE TO INTERVIEW ADDITIONAL APPL ..�� T THE MICH GA AINVESTIGATFL- ON ON MONDAY, SEPT 4 CIO AT 419 SOUTH WASHINGTON SQUARE. LANSING. THE PUBLIC IS REQUESTED TO USE THE SIDE ENTRANCE ON LENAWEE STREET. September 18, 1998 "Equal Opportunity Employer" D ,�� BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES August 22, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Director Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Members Absent: Members of the Public Commissioner Deb Frederick None. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Walker called the meeting to order at 8:53 a.m. after having established a quorum. OLD BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS Review of 2nd interview procedure Commissioners arranged chairs in order to include the candidates at the table with them. They reviewed the questions which Commissioner Walker will pose to the candidates. Committee members are encouraged to ask follow-up questions as needed. Interviews Candidate Canada arrived and was interviewed at 9:20 a.m. Candidate Brantley was interviewed at 10:30 a.m. Review of interviews Discussion was held regarding the continuation of the hiring process and the introduction of new employees to the City. Director Bommarito informed the Committee that probation periods for new employees range from four to six months but can be extended upon notification to the employee and to the appropriate union. It was suggested that before any candidate is brought before the entire Board of Police Commissioners that they be made aware of the Department's complaint process, as well as the lack of staff support for the position which some candidates did not comprehend or retain from reading the job posting. Soon after an employee is placed in the Chief Investigator position, the Committee feels it is important to present them with a set of performance objectives and letter of understanding relative to those objectives, probationary period and other relevant information. The full Board will need to identify training needs and a guide to media interaction. Relative to the continuation of the hiring process, it was decided to request of Director Bommarito that she review the applications of the other nineteen candidates to suggest additional candidates whom might be interviewed. She will also review the application packets of the ten candidates who failed to provide educational materials to determine those who might otherwise qualify for interviews. PUBLIC COMMENTS None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 12:04 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES August 18, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Director Commissioner Deb Frederick Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Maria Mejorado Paul McComb, LPD Legal Advisor Lee Canady, Board of Police Commissioners Derrick Quinney, Board of Police Commissioners Roger Newcomb, Board of Police Commissioners Members of the Public Charlene Decker CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Walker called the meeting to order at 7:20 p.m. after having established a quorum. OLD BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS Review of interview procedure Commissioner Walker reminded committee members of interview procedure and assignment of questions. Procedure and question assignment is to be consistent with that used in the August 14 meeting. Interviews Candidate Collins arrived and was interviewed at 7:27 p.m. After a meal break, candidate Giovanni was reached by telephone and interviewed at 9:00 p.m. Review of interviews Scores were totaled as follows: Collins Giovanni 2-2.0 2-2.0 3- 3.0 3 -3.0 4-2.5 4- 2.5 5 -3.5 5 -2.0 6-4.0 6-2.0 7 - 3.5 7 -2.0 8 -3.5 8 - 1.5 9-4.5 9 -3.0 10-2.0 10-2.5 Total Interview- 28.5 Total Interview-20.5 Total Written-31.0 Total Written-31.0 Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes Human Resources Committee August 18, 1998 Page 2 Grand Total- 59.5 Grand Total- 51.5 Discussion was held regarding the continuation of the hiring process. It was determined to conduct second interviews with the top three scoring candidates (Canada, Brantley, Nicol). Director Bommarito was requested to determine final wording of three questions based on direction received from the committee. Interviews will be scheduled for Saturday morning, August 22, at 9:00. PUBLIC COMMENTS None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 10:10 p.m. D BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES August 4, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Director Commissioner Deb Frederick Rhonda Mubarekeh, Acting Secretary Members Absent: Members of the Public Commissioner Maria Mejorado None CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Walker called the meeting to order at 9:15 a.m. after having established a quorum. OLD BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS Review of applicant's written exams 15 applications received consideration. Review of scoring mechanism Director Bommarito discussed scoring procedures and weights. She explained the concept of consensus scoring and introduced Jim Kinnaird (who joined the meeting for this segment only) from her staff, who explained that written exams would receive a weight of 50% with interviews receiving the other 50%. Scoring of examinations Limited discussions were held regarding individual applicant's consideration. Chief Johnson and each Commissioner present scored exams individually. The Committee recessed for lunch from 12:00 noon to 12:45 p.m. Discussion followed on each individual score and the Committee arrived at a consensus score for each of the four (4) exam questions. Applicants were scored as follows: Brantley Brimley Campbell 1 4.0 1 2.5 1 4.0 2 3.5 2 3.0 2 2.5 3 4.0 3 3.0 3 3.0 4 3.0 4 2.0 4 2.5 Total. 36.5 Total. 27.0 Total. 29.0 Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes Human Resources Committee August 4, 1998 Page 2 Canada Chandler Collins 1 4.0 1 2.5 1 3.0 2 3.5 2 2.0 2 3.0 3 4.0 3 2.0 3 3.0 4 4.0 4 1.5 4 3.5 Total. 38.5 Total. 20.0 Total. 31.0 Fleming Giovanni Goddard 1 4.5 1 3.5 1 2.0 2 4.0 2 3.0 2 3.5 3 2.0 3 3.0 3 3.0 4 3.0 4 3.0 4 3.0 Total. 33.0 Total. 31.0 Total. 29.5 Harlan Hester Lind 1 4.5 1 2.0 1 4.5 2 2.5 2 4.0 2 3.0 3 2.5 3 2.5 3 2.5 4 2.5 4 3.0 4 3.5 Total 29.0 Total. 29.5 Total. 32.5 Lopez Nicol Vinson 1 4.0 1 4.5 1 3.5 2 1.0 2 3.0 2 1.5 3 2.0 3 4.0 3 2.5 4 2.0 4 4.0 4 2.0 Total. 21.0 Total. 38.0 Total. 23.0 Ranking of Scores Scores were ranked and those candidates receiving a total of 32.5 points and higher (65% of the possible 50 points) will be awarded interviews. Interviews will be scheduled for: Brantley, Canada, Fleming, Lind and Nicol. They will be in 1.5 hour blocks, using 1.25 hours for the interview and allowing .25 hours for evaluation. CLOSED SESSION PUBLIC COMMENTS None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 4:05 p.m. �r1SI1V 1• G LANSING POLICE DEPARTMENT 120 W.Michigan Ave. Lansing,Michigan 48933 (517)483-4600(TDD/Voice) FAX:(517)483-4824 cn — C G CO t ' HI David C. Hollister, Mayor C) I Robert L.Johnson, Chief of Police : t 4- BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS' HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE WILL HOLD A MEETING TO SCORE THE CHIEF INVESTIGATOR WRITTEN EXAMS ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 19981 AT 9:00 A.M. IN THE PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT CONFERENCE ROOM OF THE CITY HALL ANNEX, 119 NORTH WASHINGTON SQUARE. "POLICE&COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS FOR PROGRESS&EXCELLENCE" recycled paper "Equal Opportunity Employer" BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES August 14, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Director Commissioner Deb Frederick Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Maria Mejorado Members of the Public Bob Kennon Geneva Smith (partial meeting) Lt. Joel Maatman - FOP (partial meeting) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Walker called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. after having established a quorum. OLD BUSINESS None. NEW BUSINESS Review of questions Commissioners discussed assignment of questions to be asked of each candidate. A decision was made to assign questions as follows: Commission Walker - introduction (1, not scored), questions 4, 10 and 12; Commissioner Frederick - questions 6 and 11 (not scored); Commissioner Farhat-Reed - questions 2 and 7, Commissioner Mejorado - questions 3 and 8; Chief Johnson - questions 5 and 9. Consensus scoring will again be utilized. A review will be held at the end of the day to adjust scores if members believe their scoring consistency varied as the day transpired. Interviews Candidates arrived and were interviewed in succession. Discussion was held following each and a consensus score for each question was decided. Interviews proceeded as follows: Nicol (9:07 a.m. - 9:41 a.m.), Lind (10:35 a.m. - 11:20 a.m.) Lunch (11:55 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.) Fleming was scheduled for 1:00 p.m. but did not arrive until 1:50 p.m. He was not interviewed. Canada (2:35 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.), Brantley (4:08 p.m. - 4:40 p.m.) Review of interviews Scores were totaled as follows: Nicol Lind Canada Brantley 2- 2.0 2-2.5 2-3.5 2-2.5 3 - 2.5 3 -3.0 3- 3.5 3-2.5 4- 3.0 4- 2.0 4- 3.5 4-2.5 5 - 3.0 5 -2.5 5 -3.5 5 -3.0 6 - 2.5 6-2.5 6-3.5 6- 3.0 7 -2.5 7- 2.0 7-4.5 7- 2.5 8 - 1.5 8 -2.5 8-4.0 8- 3.5 Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes Human Resources Committee August 14, 1998 Page 2 9 -3.0 9 -2.0 9-2.5 9- 3.0 10- 3.0 10- 2.0 10-4.0 10- 2.5 Total Interview- 23.0 Total Interview- 21.0 Total Interview- 32.5 Total Interview- 25.0 Total Written-38.0 Total Written-32.5 Total Written-38.5 Total Written- 36.5 Grand Total-61.0 Grand Total- 53.5 Grand Total- 71.0 Grand Total- 61.5 Discussion was held regarding the continuation of the hiring process. It was determined to examine the following options: 1) submit one or more candidates to the full Board of Police Commissioners for final determination of candidate, 2) grant interviews to other candidates scoring well on the written test, 3) request educational credentials from the ten (10) candidates whom did not supply them and grant interviews to candidates meeting the written test threshold, 4) review candidates applications which did not meet the strict definition of posted requirements previously applied and grant interviews to selected candidates meeting a more liberal interpretation of these requirements, 5) explore the reason for Fleming's lateness and grant an interview to him if the reason seemed plausible, and 6) determine candidates being referred to the full board by creating a case study examination and reviewing high scorers. After some discussion of the alternatives, a motion was passed that Director Bommarito be directed to contact candidate Fleming regarding possible miscommunication relative to his interview schedule, and that interviews be granted to the next two high scorers on the written test. An attempt will be made to schedule interviews for Tuesday, August 14, at 7:00 p.m. following the Board's monthly business meeting. Jim DeLine was directed to post this meeting first thing Monday morning. PUBLIC COMMENTS None. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 5:37 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES Approved as Amended i 4 i .', .. July 21, 1998 S L t P 1 12: 4 J Members Present: Others Present: LA(1SINIG CITY Y CLERK Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Captain Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Vicky Gill Commissioner Deb Frederick Jack Jordan, Legal Department Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Carol Wood, 1018 W. Lapeer Guests Priscilla Holmes, 220 Reo Ave Lt. Steve Person, GIS Presentation Ruth Hallman, 1014 W. Lapeer Sgt. Craig Baylis, Awards & Citation Cmte Gladys Gilson, 223 W. Barnes Hazel Bethea, 1002 W. Shiawassee CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. after having established a quorum. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA GIS Mapping Lt. Person distributed information regarding GIS Mapping and explained the software and its uses. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He gave a hands on demonstration of how the system works and its use as a short-term and long-range planning tool to the beat officer, administrative officers, the mayor and city council. The public was invited to stay after the meeting for a demonstration. Commissioner Walker expressed concern about the storage of information on individuals and questioned who would have access to that information. He questioned how easily mistakes could be corrected in this system. Lt. Person explained that certain information would be made available to the public, the Mayor and City Council. Certain information (i.e. contact cards, tethers, parolees, etc.) would be for police use only. He is confident there will be no release of confidential information. Commissioner Canady questioned whether or not this system would be useful to the beat officer in reducing the number of felony stops following robberies where the description of the person stopped does not match the description of the accused. He feels there is an increasing number of felony stops with drawn guns, in some cases shotguns, and he is concerned about the number of newer, younger officers on the street. He wondered if this system would enable officers to receive information in a more timely manner. He feels most of these stops have been embarrassing to the teens as well as their parents. Sergeant Baylis felt the use of in-car computers would be beneficial in these types of situations. Captain Perry-Buse stated this system would not be helpful in those types of situations. She explained the Use of Force procedure is being reviewed and she is hopeful changes in this policy as well as more extensive training for the newer officers will be beneficial in reducing these types of incidents. Procedurally, once the officer secures the scene, he/she is to explain the reason for the stop. She feels that the perception is that officers are immediately given calls and too little time is spent explaining the stop. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of June 16, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 2 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Letter to Vanessa Williams The Board received and place on file the Board's response letter to Detention Officer Vanessa Williams. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Attorney Jack Jordan stated the latest revisions were submitted for approval. He stated he did not know much about the history of the revisions, but would be happy to get any questions the Board may have answered. Commissioner Frederick has some concerns and questioned if this was the final draft. Some commissioners had draft number one, dated May 20 while others had draft number two, dated June 11. Commissioners concluded they would table this item until the next meeting. Explanation of Last Month's Communications Report Captain Perry-Buse explained the decrease in the number of telephone reports taken by the 911 Center this year as compared to last year's statistics was attributed to the increase in the number of personal computers available to officers. Officers are now drawing their own complaint numbers. Additionally there was a service desk, staffed by police officers, at the north and south precincts. Commissioners were satisfied with the explanation. PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no public comments at this portion of the meeting. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE There was no FOP representative present at the meeting. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of June, 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS June 1998 The Board received and placed on file departmental highlights for the month of June 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report No monthly report was submitted. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee The Awards and Citations Committee met earlier today and selected civilians and police officers for awards. Sgt. Baylis outlined the number and types of awards to be presented on Wednesday, September 30, 1998, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. He stated all of the six police chaplains will be formally introduced at this meeting. He encouraged everyone to attend. He stated the committee's procedure will be reviewed and revisions made to bring us in line with today's practices. He encouraged Board members to consider membership on this committee next year. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 3 Human Resources Committee Update on Minority Hiring & Filling Vacancies Captain Perry-Buse stated the department is sponsoring eight candidates for the upcoming Academy which will begin on August 3, 1998. She stated one is an Asian male; one is a Hispanic male; three are African-American males; one is an African-American female; and two are white females. Currently they are interviewing 32 people (19 white males and 16 minorities) for consideration in the next process. Two cadets, one white male and one African-American female, have been hired and will begin next Monday. This year's budget allows for 10 front-loading positions and those will be filled. There are five or six officers who are already certified and when hired in August or September will go directly to the street. She anticipates the department will be at full staff by that time. Department-Wide we are 20% minorities and 14.1 % female. As of July 16, 1998, there were eight open police officer positions. Commissioner Walker questioned the number of people eligible for retirement for the remainder of this year. Captain Perry-Buse stated there are seven more officers that can leave now, but she feels they will wait until January 1999, as they buyouts are more advantageous at that time. Commissioner Newcomb questioned how different minority hiring and recruitment were now than from the past. Captain Perry-Buse stated in the past the department had an officer who concentrated on minority hiring and recruiting. That officer has been reassigned to the precinct. Those duties are being done by the Personnel Officer and City Personnel's recruiter. The department will still attend job fairs and career seminars at minority colleges as well as job postings on the internet. She feels the best source of recruitment is the officers on the street, citizens, and Board members. She encouraged everyone to continue recruiting candidates from within our community. Drug Testing Commissioner Walker explained about two years ago the Board researched this topic and gathered information for a possible random drug testing policy at LPD. He stated this issue got put on the back burner due to more pressing issues (Swans death and Melling incident). He stated the Board wants to revisit this issue after the Chief Investigator's position has been filled. Item to remain on agenda. Update on Chief Investigator's Position Commissioner Walker stated the subcommittee met to review the written test questions. There were 17 applicants invited to test, but 2 withdrew from the process. The Board will score the written tests in a public meeting in the Personnel Conference Room on August 4, 1998. The development of interview questions will be conducted in a closed meeting following the public meeting on that date. In a public meeting on August 14 and 15 beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the South Precinct, the subcommittee will conduct interviews of the applicants. On August 18, 1998, at the regularly scheduled Board meeting (a public meeting), the full Board will interview the top three finalists. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for June 1998 Commissioner Frederick stated she and Commissioner Quinney reviewed complaints. She stated there were no concerns identified for discussion tonight. She stated if anyone had questions about any case in the report, the Board could adjourn into closed session to discuss. She acknowledged how thorough Internal Affairs investigators are in their investigations of these complaints. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated she is unclear where the brochure is at this time. She asked that Chief Johnson have a draft available at the next meeting. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado stated 22 police officers have taken advantage of the L-Hope program since its inception. She distributed a memorandum from Sharon Bommarito explaining the program and its success. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 4 COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - (1) Expressed concern about the number of letters he had received from citizens concerned about the loss of their CPO. He felt there were some misconceptions in the press concerning the number of community policing officers that were reassigned. He stated at no time did Chief Johnson intend to remove police officers from neighborhood meetings or problem-solving activities. He feels the reassigned officers will still be available to attend neighborhood meetings. Chief Johnson's research revealed that at times only 11 officers were on duty to cover the entire city. He made the reassignments to ensure that all areas of the city have police coverage, not just neighborhoods with organized watches. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - (1) Invited everyone to attend a meeting on How to Keep Your Home Safe" on Thursday night, July 23, 1998, at 7:00 p.m. at the AFLCIO. (2) She encouraged new Board members to have their lobby photographs taken at Edwards Photography, a Lansing-based business rather than Okemos Studios. (3) She questioned whether or not Chief Johnson had responded to the citizen's letters that she too had received during the month. (4) She questioned where Chief Johnson and Ms. Bommarito were in the Deputy Chief selection process. Ms. Bommarito stated all applications have been reviewed and she is ready to begin the process. She knows this is one of Chief Johnson's priorities and stated the process is now just a matter of scheduling. (5) She stated she learned Ms. Gill is resigning effective this Friday. She stated she will be sad to see her leave and thanked her for all her assistance to the Board. Commissioner Frederick - (1) Brought many letters she had received during the past month and felt the Board needed to discuss them further. (2) Stated she was recently been stopped (expired license plate) by an LPD officer. She felt the officer was very professional and polite. She did not identify herself as a police commissioner. After hearing her explanation of her new vehicle purchase, the officer let her go without a ticket. She has since purchased new stickers. She was very impressed with the officer's conduct. (3) She takes the bar exam next Tuesday and Wednesday. (4) Commissioner Frederick stated she will miss Ms. Gill and thanked her for her help and honesty. Commissioner Mejorado - Stated she had been attended the Awards and Citations Committee meeting and found it interesting and enjoyable. Stated she will miss Ms. Gill and wished her continued success in her new endeavors. Commissioner Newcomb - Stated he was surprised to learn he had been appointed as a commissioner and felt it was a privilege to serve. He stated he has always had an interest in the Lansing Police Department and shared some concerns about the department based solely on comments from the community and what he had read in the newspaper. He stated police-community relations are a strong issue for him. He is interested in learning more and being more involved in the Chief Investigator's position, Internal Affairs investigations of citizen complaints, and Community Policing. I le is so eoneerned about the of the eornrntinity policing officers so Fntieh se) that he initiated a letter writing ea I .- Commissioner Quinney - Stated he had received many letters from concerned citizens and stated if they were addressed in the public comments, he would reserve further discussion. Commissioner Quinney thanked Ms. Gill for all of her work with the Board; he will miss her. Commissioner Walker - Stated he had received many letters and wanted to discuss them. He thanked Ms. Gill for her work with the Board and he too will miss her. He wished her success in her new job. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT There was no administrative report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 5 OTHER BUSINESS Election of Officers Commissioner Canady declared all offices closed. The Board accepted nominations for the office of Chairperson. Commissioner Quinney nominated Commissioner Canady, the nomination was supported by Commissioner Mejorado. Commissioner Walker moved the nominations be closed and this motion was supported by Commissioner Quinney. Commissioner Canady was unanimously selected as the Chairperson for the 1998-1999 term. Nominations were opened for Vice-Chairperson. Commissioner Quinney nominated Commissioner Farhat-Reed and the nomination was supported by Commissioner Walker. Commissioner Newcomb moved the nominations be closed and this was supported by Commissioner Quinney. Commissioner Farhat-Reed was unanimously selected as the new Vice-Chairperson for the 1998-1999 term. Commissioner Canady selected Commissioner Farhat-Reed to chair the budget subcommittee. Commissioner Mejorado was selected to chair the Awards and Citations subcommittee and Commissioner Farhat-Reed will also serve as a member of that subcommittee. Commissioner Walker was selected to chair the Human Relations subcommittee and Commissioner Frederick will serve as a member of that committee. Commissioner Frederick was selected to chair the Complaint subcommittee and Commissioners Quinney and Newcomb will serve as members of that subcommittee. Commissioner Mejorado will serve as chair of the Incentives subcommittee and Commissioner Newcomb will serve as a member of that subcommittee. PUBLIC COMMENT Carol Wood Stated she was one of the citizens who wrote one of the letters received by the Board. She explained her role in the reorganization several years ago and explained that at the time she was opposed to Chief Gleason and this new concept on community policing. But she watched that concept come together and witnessed veteran police officers make the program work. She is not here tonight to complain about losing a community policing officer. She explained that prior to the implementation of community policing, of the 400 houses in her neighborhood, 157 were drug houses. Today only four remain. She feels that just because she has a police officer present at her neighborhood meeting that does not ensure communication and problem- solving. She feels whoever yells the loudest and longest will be who gets police representation in their neighborhoods. She questioned what happened to the C.O.P.P.E.R. program. She feels that her old community policing officer was also doing patrol work and answering police calls. For years she has been training neighborhood watch folks not to call the 911 Communications Center for non-emergency calls. Now the new Chief is asking them to call the non-emergency number so that the types and numbers of calls can be documented. The operators/dispatchers are shocked by their calls. She feels the citizens, Mayor and City Council fought too long and too hard for community policing and does not want to see these efforts lost. She feels Chief Johnson is more concerned with call responses than neighborhood concerns. Presently she has waited four or five days just to have a telephone call returned by a patrol sergeant. She feels neighborhoods don't mean what they use to and have essentially been put on the back burner. She stated she will return to the next Board meeting with data to support her claims. Commissioner Newcomb questioned her understanding of "a police officer can still attend neighborhood meetings." Ms. Wood stated she has been told that every-other-month a team officer will be allowed to attend her neighborhood meeting. Then every-other-month a sergeant or lieutenant, or whoever they can get will attend her meeting. She feels there will be no consistency. She stated her neighborhood organization is attending team meetings for information sharing, but they meet every-other-month so there will be a 60-day wait for problem-solving. She feels that is too long because neighborhoods can change overnight. She feels there is more to community policing than having a police officer attend a meeting. She is dumbfounded that the new Chief arrived in March and he has not contacted any of the neighborhood leaders or coordinators who had their community police officers reassigned. She feels the -new chief is not community-minded. Commissioner Newcomb asked her if she agreed the idea is a good idea. Ms. Woods felt the idea was questionable depending on how you get your numbers. She wants to know how many new bodies are on patrol that were not on patrol. Commissioner Newcomb felt that was a fair question. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 6 Commissioner Canady stated the Chief had expressed to him the number of areas without any police representation and he found those numbers shocking. He stated there were only three community policing officer reassigned. He feels changes being made are for the betterment of the community as a whole, not just selected neighborhoods. Commissioner Quinney asked Captain Perry-Buse to speak to the number of officers on the street. Captain Perry-Buse stated generally, prior to the reassignment of officers, there were about six police officers assigned to patrol the north precinct areas and six to patrol the south precinct areas. Officers were assigned to a team, but answered calls wherever they were dispatched, then returned to patrol their areas. She stated since the reassignments there are at least nine officers assigned north and nine south with more on the weekends when calls are higher. She stated the three community policing officers that were reassigned were those whose grant funding had expired. Ms. Wood stated the Chief has indicated to her that grant monies are being reapplied for but she cannot get the Chief to admit whether or not those funds will be used to keep community policing officers in the neighborhoods. Ruth Hallman Stated she has been a neighborhood watch coordinator for a number of years. She quoted similar statistics as those of Ms. Woods. She currently has no contact with a community policing officer. Her neighborhood has routinely handled problems pro-actively. She is frustrated with the breakdown in communication. She expressed her willingness to sit down with Chief Johnson and discuss her concerns. She sees the neighborhoods going backwards. She questioned whether or not commissioners lived in high-crime areas of the city. Priscilla Holmes She stated she lives in one of the neighborhoods that still has a community policing officer assigned. She too has been actively involved in the letter-writing campaign. She has been involved in and working with LPD since 1988. She stated grant funding provided for the establishment of problem-solving committees in each of the nine community policing areas. She has never felt compelled to attend a Board meeting, but'she feels community policing officers are the catalysts that keep crime down. She said she couldn't speak to the reassignment of motorcycle officers, FTO's, or administrative personnel, but she is very disappointed that the Chief was not in attendance tonight. She feels he has destroyed the problem-solving activity in most neighborhoods. She stated she has worked too long and too hard to obtain livable conditions in some of the older communities. She knows the Board has limited authority with the Chief of Police in this situation, but is acutely aware of the Mayor's authority over the Chief. She feels the Chief needs to be aware of the impact of his decisions to the communities. Gladys Gilson Stated she has a different concept of community policing. She has witnessed the interaction with community policing officers and the youth of our community. She feels they do make a difference and the teens who are affected by the presence of community policing officers are a good source of information to police in solving neighborhood crime. Hazel Bethea Stated she got use to her community policing officers and stated they were easy to talk to. Now she has to explain and re-explain every neighborhood issue to whoever happens to be assigned to her area. Commissioner Walker questioned whether or not any of the neighborhood leaders had met with Chief Johnson. Each stated they had. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if the outcome of their conversations produced different results. Each said no. Each felt they needed officers who were assigned to their community and who had time to problem-solve community issues. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES V i July 21, 1998 2: 21 Members Present: #1,g� PLERK Others Present: Commissioner Pete C"'6 F3fh a Captain Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Vicky Gill Commissioner Deb Frederick Jack Jordan, Legal Department Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Carol Wood, 1018 W. Lapeer Guests Priscilla Holmes, 220 Reo Ave Lt. Steve Person, GIS Presentation Ruth Hallman, 1014 W. Lapeer Sgt. Craig Baylis, Awards & Citation Cmte Gladys Gilson, 223 W. Barnes Hazel Bethea, 1002 W. Shiawassee CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. after having established a quorum. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA GIS Mapping Lt. Person distributed information regarding GIS Mapping and explained the software and its uses. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He gave a hands on demonstration of how the system works and its use as a short-term and long-range planning tool to the beat officer, administrative officers, the mayor and city council. The public was invited to stay after the meeting for a demonstration. Commissioner Walker expressed concern about the storage of information on individuals and questioned who would have access to that information. He questioned how easily mistakes could be corrected in this system. Lt. Person explained that certain information would be made available to the public,the Mayor and City Council. Certain information (i.e. contact cards, tethers, parolees, etc.) would be for police use only. He is confident there will be no release of confidential information. Commissioner Canady questioned whether or not this system would be useful to the beat officer in reducing the number of felony stops following robberies where the description of the person stopped does not match the description of the accused. He feels there is an increasing number of felony stops with drawn guns, in some cases shotguns, and he is concerned about the number of newer, younger officers on the street. He wondered if this system would enable officers to receive information in a more timely manner. He feels most of these stops have been embarrassing to the teens as well as their parents. Sergeant Baylis felt the use of in-car computers would be beneficial in these types of situations. Captain Perry-Buse stated this system would not be helpful in those types of situations. She explained the Use of Force procedure is being reviewed and she is hopeful changes in this policy as well as more extensive training for the newer officers will be beneficial in reducing these types of incidents. Procedurally, once the officer secures the scene, he/she is to explain the reason for the stop. She feels that the perception is that officers are immediately given calls and too little time is spent explaining the stop. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of June 16, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 2 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Letter to Vanessa Williams The Board received and place on file the Board's response letter to Detention Officer Vanessa Williams. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Attorney Jack Jordan stated the latest revisions were submitted for approval. He stated he did not know much about the history of the revisions, but would be happy to get any questions the Board may have answered. Commissioner Frederick has some concerns and questioned if this was the final draft. Some commissioners had draft number one, dated May 20 while others had draft number two, dated June 11. Commissioners concluded they would table this item until the next meeting. Explanation of Last Month's Communications Report Captain Perry-Buse explained the decrease in the number of telephone reports taken by the 911 Center this year as compared to last year's statistics was attributed to the increase in the number of personal computers available to officers. Officers are now drawing their own complaint numbers. Additionally there was a service desk, staffed by police officers, at the north and south precincts. Commissioners were satisfied with the explanation. PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no public comments at this portion of the meeting. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE There was no FOP representative present at the meeting. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of June, 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS June 1998 The Board received and placed on file departmental highlights for the month of June 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report No monthly report was submitted. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee The Awards and Citations Committee met earlier today and selected civilians and police officers for awards. Sgt. Baylis outlined the number and types of awards to be presented on Wednesday, September 30, 1998, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. He stated all of the six police chaplains will be formally introduced at this meeting. He encouraged everyone to attend. He stated the committee's procedure will be reviewed and revisions made to bring us in line with today's practices. He encouraged Board members to consider membership on this committee next year. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 3 Human Resources Committee Update on Minority Hiring & Filling Vacancies Captain Perry-Buse stated the department is sponsoring eight candidates for the upcoming Academy which will begin on August 3, 1998. She stated one is an Asian male; one is a Hispanic male; three are African-American males; one is an African-American female; and two are white females. Currently they are interviewing 32 people (19 white males and 16 minorities) for consideration in the next process. Two cadets, one white male and one African-American female, have been hired and will begin next Monday. This year's budget allows for 10 front-loading positions and those will be filled. There are five or six officers who are already certified and when hired in August or September will go directly to the street. She anticipates the department will be at full staff by that time. Department-Wide we are 20% minorities and 14.1% female. As of July 16, 1998, there were eight open police officer positions. Commissioner Walker questioned the number of people eligible for retirement for the remainder of this year. Captain Perry-Buse stated there are seven more officers that can leave now, but she feels they will wait until January 1999, as they buyouts are more advantageous at that time. Commissioner Newcomb questioned how different minority hiring and recruitment were now than from the past. Captain Perry-Buse stated in the past the department had an officer who concentrated on minority hiring and recruiting. That officer has been reassigned to the precinct. Those duties are being done by the Personnel Officer and City Personnel's recruiter. The department will still attend job fairs and career seminars at minority colleges as well as job postings on the internet. She feels the best source of recruitment is the officers on the street, citizens, and Board members. She encouraged everyone to continue recruiting candidates from within our community. Drug Testing Commissioner Walker explained about two years ago the Board researched this topic and gathered information for a possible random drug testing policy at LPD. He stated this issue got put on the back burner due to more pressing issues (Swans death and Melling incident). He stated the Board wants to revisit this issue after the Chief Investigator's position has been filled. Item to remain on agenda. Update on Chief Investigator's Position Commissioner Walker stated the subcommittee met to review the written test questions. There were 17 applicants invited to test, but 2 withdrew from the process. The Board will score the written tests in a public meeting in the Personnel Conference Room on August 4, 1998. The development of interview questions will be conducted in a closed meeting following the public meeting on that date. In a public meeting on August 14 and 15 beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the South Precinct, the subcommittee will conduct interviews of the applicants. On August 18, 1998, at the regularly scheduled Board meeting (a public meeting), the full Board will interview the top three finalists. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for June 1998 Commissioner Frederick stated she and Commissioner Quinney reviewed complaints. She stated there were no concerns identified for discussion tonight. She stated if anyone had questions about any case in the report, the Board could adjourn into closed session to discuss. She acknowledged how thorough Internal Affairs investigators are in their investigations of these complaints. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated she is unclear where the brochure is at this time. She asked that Chief Johnson have a draft available at the next meeting. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado stated 22 police officers have taken advantage of the L-Hope program since its inception. She distributed a memorandum from Sharon Bommarito explaining the program and its success. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 4 COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - (1) Expressed concern about the number of letters he had received from citizens concerned about the loss of their CPO. He felt there were some misconceptions in the press concerning the number of community policing officers that were reassigned. He stated at no time did Chief Johnson intend to remove police officers from neighborhood meetings or problem-solving activities. He feels the reassigned officers will still be available to attend neighborhood meetings. Chief Johnson's research revealed that at times only 11 officers were on duty to cover the entire city. He made the reassignments to ensure that all areas of the city have police coverage, not just neighborhoods with organized watches. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - (1) Invited everyone to attend a meeting on How to Keep Your Home Safe" on Thursday night, July 23, 1998, at 7:00 p.m. at the AFLCIO. (2) She encouraged new Board members to have their lobby photographs taken at Edwards Photography, a Lansing-based business rather than Okemos Studios. (3) She questioned whether or not Chief Johnson had responded to the citizen's letters that she too had received during the month. (4) She questioned where Chief Johnson and Ms. Bommarito were in the Deputy Chief selection process. Ms. Bommarito stated all applications have been reviewed and she is ready to begin the process. She knows this is one of Chief Johnson's priorities and stated the process is now just a matter of scheduling. (5) She stated she learned Ms. Gill is resigning effective this Friday. She stated she will be sad to see her leave and thanked her for all her assistance to the Board. Commissioner Frederick - (1) Brought many letters she had received during the past month and felt the Board needed to discuss them further. (2) Stated she was recently been stopped (expired license plate) by an LPD officer. She felt the officer was very professional and polite. She did not identify herself as a police commissioner. After hearing her explanation of her new vehicle purchase, the officer let her go without a ticket. She has since purchased new stickers. She was very impressed with the officer's conduct. (3) She takes the bar exam next Tuesday and Wednesday. (4) Commissioner Frederick stated she will miss Ms. Gill and thanked her for her help and honesty. Commissioner Meiorado - Stated she had been attended the Awards and Citations Committee meeting and found it interesting and enjoyable. Stated she will miss Ms. Gill and wished her continued success in her new endeavors. Commissioner Newcomb - Stated he was surprised to learn he had been appointed as a commissioner and felt it was a privilege to serve. He stated he has always had an interest in the Lansing Police Department and shared some concerns about the department based solely on comments from the community and what he had read in the newspaper. He stated police-community relations are a strong issue for him. He is interested in learning more and being more involved in the Chief Investigator's position, Internal Affairs investigations of citizen complaints, and Community Policing. He is so concerned about the reassignment of the community policing officers so much so that he initiated a letter-writing campaign. Commissioner Quinney - Stated he had received many letters from concerned citizens and stated if they were addressed in the public comments, he would reserve further discussion. Commissioner Quinney thanked Ms. Gill for all of her work with the Board; he will miss her. Commissioner Walker - Stated he had received many letters and wanted to discuss them. He thanked Ms. Gill for her work with the Board and he too will miss her. He wished her success in her new job. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT There was no administrative report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 5 OTHER BUSINESS Election of Officers Commissioner Canady declared all offices closed. The Board accepted nominations for the office of Chairperson. Commissioner Quinney nominated Commissioner Canady,the nomination was supported by Commissioner Mejorado. Commissioner Walker moved the nominations be closed and this motion was supported by Commissioner Quinney. Commissioner Canady was unanimously selected as the Chairperson for the 1998-1999 term. Nominations were opened for Vice-Chairperson. Commissioner Quinney nominated Commissioner Farhat-Reed and the nomination was supported by Commissioner Walker. Commissioner Newcomb moved the nominations be closed and this was supported by Commissioner Quinney. Commissioner Farhat-Reed was unanimously selected as the new Vice-Chairperson for the 1998-1999 term. Commissioner Canady selected Commissioner Farhat-Reed to chair the budget subcommittee. Commissioner Mejorado was selected to chair the Awards and Citations subcommittee and Commissioner Farhat-Reed will also serve as a member of that subcommittee. Commissioner Walker was selected to chair the Human Relations subcommittee and Commissioner Frederick will serve as a member of that committee. Commissioner Frederick was selected to chair the Complaint subcommittee and Commissioners Quinney and Newcomb will serve as members of that subcommittee. Commissioner Mejorado will serve as chair of the Incentives subcommittee and Commissioner Newcomb will serve as a member of that subcommittee. PUBLIC COMMENT Carol Wood Stated she was one of the citizens who wrote one of the letters received by the Board. She explained her role in the reorganization several years ago and explained that at the time she was opposed to Chief Gleason and this new concept on community policing. But she watched that concept come together and witnessed veteran police officers make the program work. She is not here tonight to complain about losing a community policing officer. She explained that prior to the implementation of community policing, of the 400 houses in her neighborhood, 157 were drug houses. Today only four remain. She feels that just because she has a police officer present at her neighborhood meeting that does not ensure communication and problem- solving. She feels whoever yells the loudest and longest will be who gets police representation in their neighborhoods. She questioned what happened to the C.O.P.P.E.R. program. She feels that her old community policing officer was also doing patrol work and answering police calls. For years she has been training neighborhood watch folks not to call the 911 Communications Center for non-emergency calls. Now the new Chief is asking them to call the non-emergency number so that the types and numbers of calls can be documented. The operators/dispatchers are shocked by their calls. She feels the citizens, Mayor and City Council fought too long and too hard for community policing and does not want to see these efforts lost. She feels Chief Johnson is more concerned with call responses than neighborhood concerns. Presently she has waited four or five days just to have a telephone call returned by a patrol sergeant. She feels neighborhoods don't mean what they use to and have essentially been put on the back burner. She stated she will return to the next Board meeting with data to support her claims. Commissioner Newcomb questioned her understanding of "a police officer can still attend neighborhood meetings." Ms. Wood stated she has been told that every-other-month a team officer will be allowed to attend her neighborhood meeting. Then every-other-month a sergeant or lieutenant, or whoever they can get will attend her meeting. She feels there will be no consistency. She stated her neighborhood organization is attending team meetings for information sharing, but they meet every-other-month so there will be a 60-day wait for problem-solving. She feels that is too long because neighborhoods can change overnight. She feels there is more to community policing than having a police officer attend a meeting. She is dumbfounded that the new Chief arrived in March and he has not contacted any of the neighborhood leaders or coordinators who had their community police officers reassigned. She feels the new chief is not community-minded. Commissioner Newcomb asked her if she agreed the idea is a good idea. Ms. Woods felt the idea was questionable depending on how you get your numbers. She wants to know how many new bodies are on patrol that were not on patrol. Commissioner Newcomb felt that was a fair question. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes July 21, 1998 Page 6 Commissioner Canady stated the Chief had expressed to him the number of areas without any police representation and he found those numbers shocking. He stated there were only three community policing officer reassigned. He feels changes being made are for the betterment of the community as a whole, not just selected neighborhoods. Commissioner Quinney asked Captain Perry-Buse to speak to the number of officers on the street. Captain Perry-Buse stated generally, prior to the reassignment of officers, there were about six police officers assigned to patrol the north precinct areas and six to patrol the south precinct areas. Officers were assigned to a team, but answered calls wherever they were dispatched, then returned to patrol their areas. She stated since the reassignments there are at least nine officers assigned north and nine south with more on the weekends when calls are higher. She stated the three community policing officers that were reassigned were those whose grant funding had expired. Ms. Wood stated the Chief has indicated to her that grant monies are being reapplied for but she cannot get the Chief to admit whether or not those funds will be used to keep community policing officers in the neighborhoods. Ruth Hallman Stated she has been a neighborhood watch coordinator for a number of years. She quoted similar statistics as those of Ms. Woods. She currently has no contact with a community policing officer. Her neighborhood has routinely handled problems pro-actively. She is frustrated with the breakdown in communication. She expressed her willingness to sit down with Chief Johnson and discuss her concerns. She sees the neighborhoods going backwards. She questioned whether or not commissioners lived in high-crime areas of the city. Priscilla Holmes She stated she lives in one of the neighborhoods that still has a community policing officer assigned. She too has been actively involved in the letter-writing campaign. She has been involved in and working with LPD since 1988. She stated grant funding provided for the establishment of problem-solving committees in each of the nine community policing areas. She has never felt compelled to attend a Board meeting, but she feels community policing officers are the catalysts that keep crime down. She said she couldn't speak to the reassignment of motorcycle officers, FTO's, or administrative personnel, but she is very disappointed that the Chief was not in attendance tonight. She feels he has destroyed the problem-solving activity in most neighborhoods. She stated she has worked too long and too hard to obtain livable conditions in some of the older communities. She knows the Board has limited authority with the Chief of Police in this situation, but is acutely aware of the Mayor's authority over the Chief. She feels the Chief needs to be aware of the impact of his decisions to the communities. Gladys Gilson Stated she has a different concept of community policing. She has witnessed the interaction with community policing officers and the youth of our community. She feels they do make a difference and the teens who are affected by the presence of community policing officers are a good source of information to police in solving neighborhood crime. Hazel Bethea Stated she got use to her community policing officers and stated they were easy to talk to. Now she has to explain and re-explain every neighborhood issue to whoever happens to be assigned to her area. Commissioner Walker questioned whether or not any of the neighborhood leaders had met with Chief Johnson. Each stated they had. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if the outcome of their conversations produced different results. Each said no. Each felt they needed officers who were assigned to their community and who had time to problem-solve community issues. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES June 16, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Grady Porter Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Lt. Joel Maatman Absent: Officer Steve Klein Commissioner Willard Walker (E) Roger Newcomb, New Board Member (7/1) Charlene Decker CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. after having established a quorum. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Welcome to Mr. Newcomb Commissioner Canady welcomed Mr. Newcomb to the Board and stated everyone was looking forward to working with him. Letter from Vanessa Williams Commissioner Canady stated he was in receipt of a letter from former detention officer, Vanessa Williams. He stated he has had several conversation with Ms. Williams about her situation. The Board accepted her letter and placed it on file. Commissioner Canady will prepare a response to Ms. Williams explaining the Board's position in disciplinary matters. Presentation to Commissioner Porter Commissioner Canady presented Commissioner Porter a resolution from the Board and thanked him for his years of service to the citizens of this community. He stated no matter when or where there was a meeting, Mr. Porter was there and it has been a pleasure working with Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter expressed his thanks for being allowed to serve and stated he would miss everyone. He reminded everyone that respect is the greatest gift anyone can give or receive. He is proud to be a Lansing resident. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of May 19, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Mr. McComb disseminated copies of the revisions. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He stated the policy adopted by the Board last September has never been utilized since the Chief Investigator's (CI) position had never been filled. Passing the policy got City Council on track in terms of approving the funds for the new position. Administration and this Board have always recognized the original policy had problems as did Chief Johnson when he arrived, thus the revisions. Revisions allow for the CI to request assistance from the Chief of Police. The Cl reports directly to the Board. The Cl will receive a copy of every citizen complaint filed in Internal Affairs to provide an overview of the actual number of complaints filed. Any Board member can ask the Cl to track/trend any complaints. If an investigation will take longer than 90 days, the Cl may request an extension from the Board. Also addressed are the concerns of the union about all reports being filed in the Internal Affairs Office. Administration will be encouraging officers to cooperate with the Cl. If there are problems in this regard, the Chief Investigator may request the assistance of the Chief of Police who may direct Internal Affairs to assist the Cl. He feels these revisions greatly improve the citizen's complaint procedure. Commissioner Frederick doubted the second Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes June 16, 1998 Page 2 version would be perfect and stated it would be constantly monitored and evaluated along the way and revised as necessary. Lieutenant Maatman agreed the procedure was a much more acceptable document than the one approved in September. The FOP is still concerned that if major errors are made in early investigations, officers will be reluctant to cooperate with the Cl. The union still has some major issues with the position of the Cl. The union agrees with keeping the records in the Internal Affairs Office. Further discussion on this procedure was tabled until Board members had time to review the revisions. Civilian Supervision and Disciplinary Procedure: Mr. McComb stated this procedure was initially presented last month and was tabled to allow everyone time to read it. Chief Johnson stated the procedure reflects how we handle civilian supervision and discipline. Mr. McComb stated the procedure was written to be consistent with the new complaint procedure. Verbiage under section VI, Chain of Review, will still needs to be rewritten to come in line with proposed revisions to the complaint procedure. It is the goal of administration to have all discipline follow the same chain. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned the union's position on this procedure. Lieutenant Maatman stated his union did not represent civilian employees. Mr. McComb stated the City's Labor Relations Office has reviewed the procedure and they are in agreement with it as it is in line with the rest of the City departments. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if the unions which represent the civilian employees had received copies of the procedure. Mr. McComb stated they had but he has heard no comment from them. Commissioners passed the procedure with changes to be made by Mr. McComb so as to be in line with new complaint procedure revisions. PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no public comments. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lieutenant Maatman thanked Commissioner Canady for his support of the Union in the planning stages of the Police-Community Relations Conference. He thanked Commissioner Canady for his support in getting the complaint procedure revised in terms of housing complaints in the Internal Affairs Office. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of May, 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS May 1998 The Board received and placed on file departmental highlights for the month of May 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Quinney questioned the percentage of false alarms. Mr. McComb stated the false rate is frequently in that range. He feels this is attributable to the large number of alarms available for purchase today. He stated business/residences with alarms are allowed either two or three false alarms per year without a fine. After that they are fined $25 for the first violation, $50 for the second, and $75 for the third. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The Board received and placed on file the communications report for May 1998. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner'Frederick questioned why there was a decrease in the number of telephone reports taken from this year as compared to last year. Chief Johnson stated he would find the answer and report back at the next meeting. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes June 16, 1998 Page 3 COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated the committee has still not met. He has read a number of complimentary letters outlining service above and beyond the call of duty. He is always encouraged to see the positive things that our officers do. He feels this is a great committee and encouraged Board members to consider serving on this committee. Human Resources Committee Tabled in the absence of Commissioner Walker. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for May 1998 Commissioner Frederick stated she and Commissioner Quinney reviewed complaints. She stated there were no concerns identified for discussion tonight. She stated if anyone had questions about any case in the report, the Board could adjourn into closed session to discuss. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned what happens when someone fails the FTO program. Chief Johnson stated they are terminated. Mr. McComb stated there are several phases of the FTO program and recruits are given several opportunities in each phase of the program. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if both recruits in the report were terminated. Chief Johnson stated the one in IA-98-0059 was, but the one in IA-98-0060 was not. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated at the last meeting the brochure had been turned over to the Mayor's public relations firm and she did not know its current status. Chief Johnson volunteered to follow-up with the Mayor and report back at the next meeting. Paul McComb stated he had received a copy of Jackson Police Department's brochure and he would be happy to share that with Commissioner Frederick. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado had no report. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - questioned whether or not Loren Glasscock would be replaced. Chief Johnson stated the duties of the Public Information Officer have been farmed out to precinct detective sergeants. He is unsure at this point whether or not that position will be filled. It is possible that oversight for these functions will be rolled into the duties of another position. He acknowledged this is an important function and we need to have someone doing this job. Commissioner Canady stated election of officers will occur at the July meeting. Item to be placed on next month's agenda. Commissioner Canady stated he attended a recent meeting of the March For Justice. Copies of their agenda were disseminated. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He shared his concern that MFJ still wants a Citizen Review Board. Commissioner Canady stated the people of Lansing voted down that proposal and rehashing that issue at the conference can only create friction because it is something the Board can do nothing about. He stated he would like to thank Chief Johnson for availing himself to the community over the last couple of months. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - (1) Congratulated Andy George on his promotion to Assistant Chief. She was concerned that she was not aware of Andy's promotion until she heard it through the grapevine. Chief Johnson explained his decision was made late in the evening and that he called Captain George and Commissioner Canady. He wanted to ensure that he spoke with the other two candidates prior to further Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes June 16, 1998 Page 4 release of his decision. While he would like to notify Board members first, he has no control over the grapevine. (2) Questioned whether or not the Board should save a night on their schedules for a Lugnut game as last year. Board members will be notified if such an opportunity arises again this year. Chief Johnson will follow-up with the Mayor's Office. (3) Questioned whether or not the Board would be sponsoring a PAL basketball team again this year. Everyone was agreeable. It was noted that donations are usually accepted for sponsorship in the fall. (4) Commissioner Farhat-Reed stated she had received a copy of the Police-Community Relations Conference agenda and questioned the order of speakers. Chief Johnson stated there was a printing error in that the speaking order was printed in reverse order. (5) She questioned if the Recruiting Officer's position would be filled. Chief Johnson stated the recruiter's job was not a full-time job. He feels it is the responsibility of every employee to recruit for the organization. He feels it is just a convenient excuse for employees not to speak to prospective candidates, but rather refer them to a recruiter. He felt every employee, command officer, and supervisor was responsible for recruiting, including Board members. He encouraged Board members to send everyone they come in contact who is interested in working for LPD to our Human Resources Department. Commissioner Canady encouraged Board members to solicit help from the community in recruiting officers. (6) Stated last year there were officers assigned to the Riverwalk and questioned whether or not officers would be assigned again this year. Chief Johnson was hopeful that with the additional officers reassigned to road patrol that officers could be scheduled to work the Riverwalk. He feels this is a function of patrol, not a special assignment. Commissioner Frederick - No comments. Commissioner Mejorado - No comments. Commissioner Quinney - Stated it has been a pleasure working with Commissioner Porter and invited him to come back and visit as often as possible. Commissioner Walker - Absent. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson stated the Police-Community Relations Conference will be held Saturday, June 27. He stated some Board members have a role in the committee and several workshops. He encouraged all Board members to attend. He urged them to prepare themselves to answer questions about the expected outcomes of the conference. He stated the decision to appoint Captain Andy George to Assistant Chief was based on the fact that he is an energetic young man; he keeps an open mind; he is concerned for the community and fellow officers; and he provides objective thinking. He feels Assistant Chief George will contribute quality leadership and he has every confidence in his ability to be successful in this position. The Deputy Chief's position is still vacant. After the Assistant Chief's position was filled, he consulted with Ms. Bommarito, Director of City Personnel, and they decided to re-post the Deputy Chief's position. It was posted Friday and will remain up for six days. The hiring process will begin immediately thereafter. He promised to give Board members a heads up when that decision is made. He is hopeful the decision will be made before the next Board meeting. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes June 16, 1998 Page 5 Chief Johnson stated his re-deployment plan has drawn mixed reviews. Several neighborhood organizations are unhappy with what they perceive is taking officers away from community/neighborhood concerns/issues. He feels these perceptions are based on supposition and rumors, rather than fact. Chief Johnson stated he has no intention of preventing officers from attending neighborhood meetings. Neighborhood organizations' frequently asked questions will be highlighted in the next newsletter, Cal/box. He is hopeful the re-deployment plan can be explained to everyone's satisfaction. He stated negotiations have just begun this with the FOP 911 operator's union. He stated negotiations with the FOP supervisory and FOP non-supervisory unions are upcoming. Chief Johnson stated since his arrival, he has been reviewing the hiring, selection, and FTO training program. He feels there are some issues that need to be addressed. He met with the FTO training cadre earlier tonight and admitted there are problems in the program. Commissioner Frederick questioned what the thrust of changes would be. Chief Johnson stated there is a perception within the community that our FTO program is washing out minority candidates. The data he has reviewed thus far supports that perception. As an example, he stated the failure rate for white females is 45% as opposed to only 10% for white males. At this point his is looking at why that is occurring. Commissioner questioned whether there would be major changes in the FTO program. Chief Johnson stated no, there would just be some fine tuning. All administrative and operational policies and procedures are being reviewed. Many administrative policies will be presented to the Board in the upcoming months as Chief Johnson is hoping for a quick turnaround on the revisions. Most revisions reflect changes in the law and/or the department's reorganization. OTHER BUSINESS Minutes from the Human Relations and Community Services Advisory Board Minutes were reviewed. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. PUBLIC COMMENT Charlene Decker thanked Mr. Porter for his service to the community. She stated recently there was a picnic at Melling Drop Forge and several officers attended. She stated she understands the need for the Police- Community Relations Conference and she has no problem with protecting the records of the Chief Investigator. She feels that people's fears need to be addressed at the Conference. She was pleased with the exchange of information at tonight's meeting, and feels more of the same needs to get out to the community. She now feels the Board is trying to address the needs/concerns of the community and she thanked the Board of their efforts. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:59 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS D-R-A-F-T MEETING MINUTES June 16, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: r Commissioner Pete Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson lT• Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb { Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill r Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Grady Porter Commissioner Derrick Quinney Members of the Public Lt. Joel Maatman r v� Absent: Officer Steve Klein x Commissioner Willard Walker (E) Roger Newcomb, New Board Miffiber (7/1) Charlene Decker CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. after having established a quorum. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Welcome to Mr. Newcomb Commissioner Canady welcomed Mr. Newcomb to the Board and stated everyone was looking forward to working with him. Letter from Vanessa Williams Commissioner Canady stated he was in receipt of a letter from former detention officer, Vanessa Williams. He stated he has had several conversation with Ms. Williams about her situation. The Board accepted her letter and placed it on file. Commissioner Canady will prepare a response to Ms. Williams explaining the Board's position in disciplinary matters. Presentation to Commissioner Porter Commissioner Canady presented Commissioner Porter a resolution from the Board and thanked him for his years of service to the citizens of this community. He stated no matter when or where there was a meeting, Mr. Porter was there and it has been a pleasure working with Mr. Porter. Mr. Porter expressed his thanks for being allowed to serve and stated he would miss everyone. He reminded everyone that respect is the greatest gift anyone can give or receive. He is proud to be a Lansing resident. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of May 19, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Mr. McComb disseminated copies of the revisions. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He stated the policy adopted by the Board last September has never been utilized since the Chief Investigator's (CI) position had never been filled. Passing the policy got City Council on track in terms of approving the funds for the new position. Administration and this Board have always recognized the original policy had problems as did Chief Johnson when he arrived, thus the revisions. Revisions allow for the Cl to request assistance from the Chief of Police. The Cl reports directly to the Board. The Cl will receive a copy of every citizen complaint filed in Internal Affairs to provide an overview of the actual number of complaints filed. Any Board member can ask the Cl to track/trend any complaints. If an investigation will take longer than 90 days, the Cl may request an extension from the Board. Also addressed are the concerns of the union about all reports being filed in the Internal Affairs Office. Administration will be encouraging officers to cooperate with the Cl. If there are problems in this regard, the Cl may request the assistance of the Chief of Police who may opt to assign the investigation to Internal Affairs. He feels these revisions greatly improve the citizen's complaint procedure. Commissioner Frederick doubted the second Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes D-R-A-F-T June 16, 1998 Page 2 version would be perfect and stated it would be constantly monitored and evaluated along the way and revised as necessary. Lieutenant Maatman agreed the procedure was a much more acceptable document than the one approved in September. The FOP is still concerned that if major errors are made in early investigations, officers will be reluctant to cooperate with the Cl. The union still has some major issues with the position of the Cl. The union agrees with keeping the records in the Internal Affairs Office. Further discussion on this procedure was tabled until Board members had time to review the revisions. Civilian Supervision and Disciplinary Procedure: Mr. McComb stated this procedure was initially presented last month and was tabled to allow everyone time to read it. Chief Johnson stated the procedure reflects how we handle civilian supervision and discipline. Mr. McComb stated the procedure was written to be consistent with the new complaint procedure. Verbiage under section VI, Chain of Review, will still needs to be rewritten to come in line with proposed revisions to the complaint procedure. It is the goal of administration to have all discipline follow the same chain. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned the union's position on this procedure. Lieutenant Maatman stated his union did not represent civilian employees. Mr. McComb stated the City's Labor Relations Office has reviewed the procedure and they are in agreement with it as it is in line with the rest of the City departments. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if the unions which represent the civilian employees had received copies of the procedure. Mr. McComb stated they had but he has heard no comment from them. Commissioners passed the procedure with changes to be made by Mr. McComb so as to be in line with new complaint procedure revisions. PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no public comments. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lieutenant Maatman thanked Commissioner Canady for his support of the Union in the planning stages of the Police-Community Relations Conference. He thanked Commissioner Canady for his support in getting the complaint procedure revised in terms of housing complaints in the Internal Affairs Office. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters/memorandums of appreciation received during the month of May, 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS May 1998 The Board received and placed on file departmental highlights for the month of May 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Quinney questioned the percentage of false alarms. Mr. McComb stated the false rate is frequently in that range. He feels this is attributable to the large number of alarms available for purchase today. He stated business/residences with alarms are allowed either two or three false alarms per year without a fine. After that they are fined $25 for the first violation, $50 for the second, and $75 for the third. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The Board received and placed on file the communications report for May 1998. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Frederick questioned why there was a decrease in the number of telephone reports taken from this year as compared to last year. Chief Johnson stated he would find the answer and report back at the next meeting. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes D-R-A-F-T June 16, 1998 Page 3 COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated the committee has still not met. He has read a number of complimentary letters outlining service above and beyond the call of duty. He is always encouraged to see the positive things that our officers do. He feels this is a great committee and encouraged Board members to consider serving on this committee. Human Resources Committee Tabled in the absence of Commissioner Walker. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for May 1998 Commissioner Frederick stated she and Commissioner Quinney reviewed complaints. She stated there were no concerns identified for discussion tonight. She stated if anyone had questions about any case in the report, the Board could adjourn into closed session to discuss. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned what happens when someone fails the FTO program. Chief Johnson stated they are terminated. Mr. McComb stated there are several phases of the FTO program and recruits are given several opportunities in each phase of the program. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if both recruits in the report were terminated. Chief Johnson stated the one in IA-98-0059 was, but the one in IA-98-0060 was not. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated at the last meeting the brochure had been turned over to the Mayor's public relations firm and she did not know its current status. Chief Johnson volunteered to follow-up with the Mayor and report back at the next meeting. Paul McComb stated he had received a copy of Jackson Police Department's brochure and he would be happy to share that with Commissioner Frederick. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado had no report. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - questioned whether or not Loren Glasscock would be replaced. Chief Johnson stated the duties of the Public Information Officer have been farmed out to precinct detective sergeants. He is unsure at this point whether or not that position will be filled. It is possible that oversight for these functions will be rolled into the duties of another position. He acknowledged this is an important function and we need to have someone doing this job. Commissioner Canady stated election of officers will occur at the July meeting. Item to be placed on next month's agenda. Commissioner Canady stated he attended a recent meeting of the March For Justice. Copies of their agenda were disseminated. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He shared his concern that MFJ still wants a Citizen Review Board. Commissioner Canady stated the people of Lansing voted down that proposal and rehashing that issue at the conference can only create friction because it is something the Board can do nothing about. He stated he would like to thank Chief Johnson for availing himself to the community over the last couple of months. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - (1) Congratulated Andy George on his promotion to Assistant Chief. She was concerned that she was not aware of Andy's promotion until she heard it through the grapevine. Chief Johnson explained his decision was made late in the evening and that he called Captain George and Commissioner Canady. He wanted to ensure that he spoke with the other two candidates prior to further Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes D-R-A-F-T June 16, 1998 Page 4 release of his decision. While he would like to notify Board members first, he has no control over the grapevine. (2) Questioned whether or not the Board should save a night on their schedules for a Lugnut game as last year. Board members will be notified if such an opportunity arises again this year. Chief Johnson will follow-up with the Mayor's Office. (3) Questioned whether or not the Board would be sponsoring a PAL basketball team again this year. Everyone was agreeable. It was noted that donations are usually accepted for sponsorship in the fall. (4) Commissioner Farhat-Reed stated she had received a copy of the Police-Community Relations Conference agenda and questioned the order of speakers. Chief Johnson stated there was a printing error in that the speaking order was printed in reverse order. (5) She questioned if the Recruiting Officer's position would be filled. Chief Johnson stated the recruiter's job was not a full-time job. He feels it is the responsibility of every employee to recruit for the organization. He feels it is just a convenient excuse for employees not to speak to prospective candidates, but rather refer them to a recruiter. He felt every employee, command officer, and supervisor was responsible for recruiting, including Board members. He encouraged Board members to send everyone they come in contact who is interested in working for LPD to our Human Resources Department. Commissioner Canady encouraged Board members to solicit help from the community in recruiting officers. (6) Stated last year there were officers assigned to the Riverwalk and questioned whether or not officers would be assigned again this year. Chief Johnson was hopeful that with the additional officers reassigned to road patrol that officers could be scheduled to work the Riverwalk. He feels this is a function of patrol, not a special assignment. Commissioner Frederick - No comments. Commissioner Meiorado - No comments. Commissioner Quinney - Stated it has been a pleasure working with Commissioner Porter and invited him to come back and visit as often as possible. Commissioner Walker - Absent. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson stated the Police-Community Relations Conference will be held Saturday, June 27. He stated some Board members have a role in the committee and several workshops. He encouraged all Board members to attend. He urged them to prepare themselves to answer questions about the expected outcomes of the conference. He stated the decision to appoint Captain Andy George to Assistant Chief was based on the fact that he is an energetic young man; he keeps an open mind; he is concerned for the community and fellow officers; and he provides objective thinking. He feels Assistant Chief George will contribute quality leadership and he has every confidence in his ability to be successful in this position. The Deputy Chief's position is still vacant. After the Assistant Chief's position was filled, he consulted with Ms. Bommarito, Director of City Personnel, and they decided to re-post the Deputy Chief's position. It was posted Friday and will remain up for six days. The hiring process will begin immediately thereafter. He promised to give Board members a heads up when that decision is made. He is hopeful the decision will be made before the next Board meeting. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes D-R-A-F-T June 16, 1998 Page 5 Chief Johnson stated his re-deployment plan has drawn mixed reviews. Several neighborhood organizations are unhappy with what they perceive is taking officers away from community/neighborhood concerns/issues. He feels these perceptions are based on supposition and rumors, rather than fact. Chief Johnson stated he has no intention of preventing officers from attending neighborhood meetings. Neighborhood organizations' frequently asked questions will be highlighted in the next newsletter, Ca//box. He is hopeful the re-deployment plan can be explained to everyone's satisfaction. He stated negotiations have just begun this with the FOP 911 operator's union. He stated negotiations with the FOP supervisory and FOP non-supervisory unions are upcoming. Chief Johnson stated since his arrival, he has been reviewing the hiring, selection, and FTO training program. He feels there are some issues that need to be addressed. He met with the FTO training cadre earlier tonight and admitted there are problems in the program. Commissioner Frederick questioned what the thrust of changes would be. Chief Johnson stated there is a perception within the community that our FTO program is washing out minority candidates. The data he has reviewed thus far supports that perception. As an example, he stated the failure rate for white females is 45% as opposed to only 10% for white males. At this point his is looking at why that is occurring. Commissioner questioned whether there would be major changes in the FTO program. Chief Johnson stated no, there would just be some fine tuning. All administrative and operational policies and procedures are being reviewed. Many administrative policies will be presented to the Board in the upcoming months as Chief Johnson is hoping for a quick turnaround on the revisions. Most revisions reflect changes in the law and/or the department's reorganization. OTHER BUSINESS Minutes from the Human Relations and Community Services Advisory Board Minutes were reviewed. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. PUBLIC COMMENT Charlene Decker thanked Mr. Porter for his service to the community. She stated recently there was a picnic at Melling Drop Forge and several officers attended. She stated she understands the need for the Police- Community Relations Conference and she has no problem with protecting the records of the Chief Investigator. She feels that people's fears need to be addressed at the Conference. She was pleased with the exchange of information at tonight's meeting, and feels more of the same needs to get out to the community. She now feels the Board is trying to address the needs/concerns of the community and she thanked the Board of their efforts. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:59 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES May 19, 1998 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Willard Walker, Chair Paul McComb Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Vicky Gill Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Commissioner Derrick Quinney Lt. Joel Maatman Sharon Bommarito Absent: Sgt. John Parks Commissioner Pete Canady (E) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Walker called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of April 21, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Mr. McComb stated revisions are still pending. Chief Johnson will review revisions with the Mayor prior to presenting them to the Board. The Chief is hopeful a draft of proposed revisions can be presented at the June meeting. PUBLIC COMMENTS Sergeant John Parks Thanked members of the Board who had been praying for and encouraging him toward promotion to Lieutenant. His promotion will be effective May 30, 1998. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lieutenant Maatman stated Sergeant Ted Rahl is retiring and has resigned his position as President of the FOP and he has been elected to fill that position. Sergeant Steve Mitchell has been elected as the new Director. Lieutenant Maatman thanked Commissioner Canady for his support of the union during the planning meetings for the Police/Community Relations Summit schedule for June. The union believes all records of the new Chief Investigator should be housed in the Internal Affairs Office of the Police Department. The union believes if they are housed outside of the Department,they would be subject to FOIA. Lieutenant Maatman thanked Chief Johnson for promoting Sergeant Parks. He is the first black man to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in the Department's 104 year history. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 19, 1998 Page 2 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters and memorandums of appreciation for LPD employees received during the month of April, 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS April 1998 The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of April 1998. Copies are attached to the original -minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Walker asked that abbreviations such as YTD, OUIL, and CEU not be used in the administrative services portion of the report. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The Board received and placed on file the communications report for April 1998. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated this is his last meeting tonight and someone needs to be appointed to fill his vacated position on this committee. Human Resources Committee Hiring: Commissioner Walker had no minority hiring update. He requested that Captain Helen Perry- Buse b_epresent at the next meeting to update the Board on current vacancies and strategies to fill those vacancies. Drug Testing: This discussion will be revisited once the Chief Investigator's position has been filled. Item to remain on the agenda. Update on Chief Investigator's Position Commissioner Walker disseminated copies of a tentative schedule for the selection of a Chief Investigator. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The goal is to have the process completed by the June 16, Board meeting. So far there are about 50 applications. Applicants have been sent a letter requesting clarification of their education and experience. Commissioner Walker is hopeful the City Personnel Department can screen for only those applicants meeting the education and experience requirements. There will be a written test for those top candidates. Once the applicant proceeds to the interview part of the process, he/she will be notified that interviews must be conducted in a public setting. There was some discussion about the possible loss of candidates at this point. Commissioner Mejorado agreed to serve as a member of this sub- committee when asked by Commissioner Walker. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for Monday, June 15. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 19, 1998 Page 3 Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for April 1998 Commissioner Frederick stated she and Commissioners Quinney and Canady reviewed four complaints investigated during the month of April 1998. She stated there was nothing significant found that required further discussion by the Board. A copy of the summary report of complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of April 1998, is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated the brochure has been put on hold until revisions to the complaint procedure can be made. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado had no report. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - Absent. Commissioner Farhat-Reed-Thanked Chief Johnson for attending the Neighborhood Watch Picnic last evening. Questioned whether or not Commissioner Maxsam would be replaced. Commissioner Frederick - Stated she graduated law school on May 16. Thanked Commissioner Porter for his service to the community. Commissioner Mejorado - Congratulations to Sergeant John Parks on his recent promotion to Lieutenant. She also expressed her sadness over the resignation of Commissioner Porter. Commissioner Porter - Stated he was resigning his position and this would be his last Board meeting. He thanked Mayor Hollister and the City Council for the opportunity to serve as a member of this Board. He is thankful for his chance to serve the citizens of the City of Lansing. He stated he made a lot of lasting friendships. Many people have touched his life and he hopes he's touched theirs along the way. He invited everyone to attend a welcome reception for Chief Johnson on Wednesday, May 27, 1998, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Riverview Place. Commissioner Quinney - Congratulated Sergeant John Parks on his promotion to Lieutenant. Thanked Commissioner Porter for his service to the community. Commissioner Walker- Congratulated Sergeant Parks on his promotion. Stated he has lived in Lansing for over 30 years and Commissioner Porter was one of the first people he met in Lansing. Commission Porter has provided a tremendous service to our community and Commissioner Walker is sorry to see him leave the Board. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson was absent. There was no administrative report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 19, 1998 Page 4 OTHER BUSINESS Civilian Supervision and Disciplinary Procedure: Mr. McComb stated the policy was written by him, Officer Dahlke, and Doris Schoening of Labor Relations and Chief Johnson supports the revisions. He stated the current policy is obsolete in that it did not make provisions for current contract language regarding timeframes for discipline. Commissioner Frederick questioned how the revised policy was different from the current one. Mr. McComb stated currently the policy allows for a pre- disciplinary hearing to the Assistant Chief. And the Assistant Chief can make disciplinary decisions. An employee can request a hearing with the Chief of Police on appeal. In the new policy, the Chief of Police will make decisions regarding discipline and conduct the pre-determination hearing. An appeal to a hearing with the Chief of Police will be eliminated, but the civilian employee may appeal to the grievance process. Mr. McComb stated the sworn disciplinary procedures will be rewritten quite similarly to this procedure. Commissioner Quinney made a motion, supported by Commissioner Walker, to table the procedure until the next meeting to allow them more time to review the policy. Tabled until the next meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT Lieutenant Maatman commented on the efficient and timely manner of tonight's meeting. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:12 p.m. P_Ar+ BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES May 19, 1998 3 `1 23 f=.�� �l� 5 Members Present: Others Present- qv CLERK Commissioner Willard Walker, Chair Paul 6 , i - Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Vicky Gill Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Commissioner Derrick Quinney Lt. Joel Maatman Sharon Bommarito Absent: Sgt. John Parks Commissioner Pete Canady (E) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Walker called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of April 21, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Revisions to the Complaint Procedure: Mr. McComb stated revisions are still pending. Chief Johnson will review revisions with the Mayor prior to presenting them to the Board. The Chief is hopeful a draft of proposed revisions can be presented at the June meeting. PUBLIC COMMENTS Sergeant John Parks Thanked members of the Board who had been praying for and encouraging him toward promotion to Lieutenant. His promotion will be effective May 30, 1998. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lieutenant Maatman stated Sergeant Ted Rahl is retiring and has resigned his position as President of the FOP and he has been elected to fill that position. Sergeant Steve Mitchell has been elected as the new Director. Lieutenant Maatman thanked Commissioner Canady for his support of the union during the planning meetings for the Police/Community Relations Summit schedule for June. The union believes all records of the new Chief Investigator should be housed in the Internal Affairs Office of the Police Department. The union believes if they are housed outside of the Department, they would be subject to FOIA. Lieutenant Maatman thanked Chief Johnson for promoting Sergeant Parks. He is the first black man to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in the Department's 104 year history. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 19, 1998 Page 2 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters and memorandums of appreciation for LPD employees received during the month of April, 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS April 1998 The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of April 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Walker asked that abbreviations such as YTD, OUIL, and CEU not be used in the administrative services portion of the report. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The Board received and placed on file the communications report for April 1998. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated this is his last meeting tonight and someone needs to be appointed to fill his vacated position on this committee. Human Resources Committee Hiring: Commissioner Walker had no minority hiring update. He requested that Captain Helen Perry- Buse be present at the next meeting to update the Board on current vacancies and strategies to fill those vacancies. Drug Testing: This discussion will be revisited once the Chief Investigator's position has been filled. Item to remain on the agenda. _Update on Chief Investigator's Position Commissioner Walker disseminated copies of a tentative schedule for the selection of a Chief Investigator. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The goal is to have the process completed by the June 16, Board meeting. So far there are about 50 applications. Applicants have been sent a letter requesting clarification of their education and experience. Commissioner Walker is hopeful the City Personnel Department can screen for only those applicants meeting the education and experience requirements. There will be a written test for those top candidates. Once the applicant proceeds to the interview part of the process, he/she will be notified that interviews must be conducted in a public setting. There was some discussion about the possible loss of candidates at this point. Commissioner Mejorado agreed to serve as a member of this sub- committee when asked by Commissioner Walker. Interviews are tentatively scheduled for Monday, June 15. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 19, 1998 Page 3 Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for April 1998 Commissioner Frederick stated she and Commissioners Quinney and Canady reviewed four complaints investigated during the month of April 1998. She stated there was nothing significant found that required further discussion by the Board. A copy of the summary report of complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of April 1998, is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated the brochure has been put on hold until revisions to the complaint procedure can be made. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado had no report. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - Absent. Commissioner Farhat-Reed -Thanked Chief Johnson for attending the Neighborhood Watch Picnic last evening. Questioned whether or not Commissioner Maxsam would be replaced. Commissioner Frederick - Stated she graduated law school on May 16. Thanked Commissioner Porter for his service to the community. Commissioner Meiorado - Congratulations to Sergeant John Parks on his recent promotion to Lieutenant. She also expressed her sadness over the resignation of Commissioner Porter. Commissioner Porter - Stated he was resigning his position and this would be his last Board meeting. He thanked Mayor Hollister and the City Council for the opportunity to serve as a member of this Board. He is thankful for his chance to serve the citizens of the City of Lansing. He stated he made a lot of lasting friendships. Many people have touched his life and he hopes he's touched theirs along the way. He invited everyone to attend a welcome reception for Chief Johnson on Wednesday, May 27, 1998, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Riverview Place. Commissioner Quinney - Congratulated Sergeant John Parks on his promotion to Lieutenant. Thanked Commissioner Porter for his service to the community. Commissioner Walker- Congratulated Sergeant Parks on his promotion. Stated he has lived in Lansing for over 30 years and Commissioner Porter was one of the first people he met in Lansing. Commission Porter has provided a tremendous service to our community and Commissioner Walker is sorry to see him leave the Board. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson was absent. There was no administrative report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 19, 1998 Page 4 OTHER BUSINESS Civilian Supervision and Disciplinary Procedure: Mr. McComb stated the policy was written by him, Officer Dahlke, and Doris Schoening of Labor Relations and Chief Johnson supports the revisions. He stated the current policy is obsolete in that it did not make provisions for current contract language regarding timeframes for discipline. Commissioner Frederick questioned how the revised policy was different from the current one. Mr. McComb stated currently the policy allows for a pre- disciplinary hearing to the Assistant Chief. And the Assistant Chief can make disciplinary decisions. An employee can request a hearing with the Chief of Police on appeal. In the new policy, the Chief of Police will make decisions regarding discipline and conduct the pre-determination hearing. An appeal to a hearing with the Chief of Police will be eliminated, but the civilian employee may appeal to the grievance process. Mr. McComb stated the sworn disciplinary procedures will be rewritten quite similarly to this procedure. Commissioner Quinney made a motion, supported by Commissioner Walker, to table the procedure until the next meeting to allow them more time to review the policy. Tabled until the next meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT Lieutenant Maatman commented on the efficient and timely manner of tonight's meeting. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:12 p.m. I30ARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES April 21, 1998 r_, C F !. Members Present: Others Present: ?c AN 7: 53 Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson ��r), CLERK Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Bruce Holliday, FOP Non-Sups Carol Wood, 1018 Lapeer Absent: Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Commissioner Derrick Quinney (E) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meetings of February 17, 1998, and March 17, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Proposal of Mr. Castillo & Wilbur Howard Commissioner Canady stated the position for the Chief Investigator has been posted. He thinks it will be difficult for Mr. Castillo's firm to meet the criteria established in the posting. He felt any individual in that firm could apply for the position. He will communicate this to Mr. Castillo and Mr. Howard. Chief Investigator's Position Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Director, distributed information concerning the Chief Investigator's position (i.e. position posting, internal posting, summary of recruiting efforts, and position description questionnaire to evaluate the position). She stated the job will be posted outside until May 15, 1998. So far her department has mailed 20 applications. None of those have been completed and returned. She has received a considerable number of telephone calls regarding the position. She had a conference call with the City Attorney and they have concluded this Board is a public body. Therefore all final interviews must be held in public meetings. She asked for direction from the Board on how to proceed with the selection process. Commissioner Walker questioned if the Board would be required to be involved in the screening and review of application process, or if those duties could be delegated to the City's Personnel Department. Ms. Bommarito agreed that City Personnel would screen applications for the minimum qualifications as posted. She felt the Board should be responsible for determining the Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 2 process for qualified candidates. It was recommended that a sub-committee be appointed to work with City Personnel in this hiring process. Commissioner Walker will chair, Commissioners Farhat-Reed and Frederick will serve as members of this sub-committee. Ms. Bommarito will contact sub-committee members regarding the first meeting. The Board voiced concerns regarding their inexperience in conducting public interviews. They questioned what impact public scrutiny would have in the interview process. Ms. Bommarito stated qualified candidates must be informed that final interviews will be conducted in a public meeting. It was concluded that the Board would have a specific agenda for the meeting in which public interviews for this position would be conducted and the public would be allowed to comment but not question candidates. It was also concluded that future discussion on this position would be placed under the Human Resources Committee's portion of the agenda. Law Enforcement Risk Reduction Manual Mr. McComb stated Commissioner Porter had requested a summary of the Pre-Arrest Contact Procedure and he disseminated a summary. A copy of the policy and summary is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He stated this policy was originally presented to the Board as part of the Mayor's 13-Point Plan. This procedure goes farther than contacts, it includes stops and frisks as well. Mr. McComb explained the procedure in detail. Essentially, the policy outlines what officer already have the authority to do. He feels the written policy will be a training tool for officers as well as help them to articulate their reasons for a stop and/or frisk. The Board unanimously passed the policy as presented. PUBLIC COMMENTS Carol Wood Ms. Wood stated she is a member of the Police-Community Conference Planning Committee. She stated the quote discussed at the February Board meeting was deleted from the Conference Brochure. She feels the committee would like replacement verbiage and asked for the Board's recommendations to present to the committee. Chief Johnson stated the perception of racism needs to be addressed and the department will have in put in alternative verbiage. He also stated the police department is participating in the conference and will have a strong voice on how it is structured. Ms. Wood also sought the Board's input on topics for the break-out sessions at the conference. The committee's next meeting is Monday, April 27, 1998. It was suggested that the North Precinct be a possible topic. Also that Board members conduct a break-out session regarding how Police Board meetings are conducted as well as the Board's duties and responsibilities. Ms. Wood providee a copy of last year's brochure to commissioners. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioners will contact Ms. Wood with their ideas. Commissioner Canady encouraged FOP representatives to participate in the conference planning. The conference will be held at Riverfront on June 27. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 3 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters and memorandums of appreciation for LPD employees received during the months of February and March 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS February & March 1998 The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the months of February and March 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The Board received and placed on file the communications report for April 1998. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Walker questioned if all calls to the communication center were recorded. Chief Johnson stated they were. He stated he is looking the possibility of initiating an alternative number (i.e. 311 or 1234) for non- emergency calls. He is also looking at reducing the total number of dispatches by assigning officers to take telephone reports. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated he met with Sergeant Baylis and their committee should be formed soon. The date of the Awards Ceremonies will be announced at the next Board meeting. Human Resources Committee Hiring: Commissioner Walker stated was concerned about the number of recent retirements and he met with Captain Perry-Buse earlier today to discuss. There are eight people eligible for retirement this month and another six in July. So far, five letters have been received and it is anticipated there will be at least four more. Academy graduation in July is expected to yield good candidates. He is satisfied with the quality of recruits being sought. Commissioner Walker stated he is also concerned about the declining age of the department. He feels we need to pay more attention to training and mentoring. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 4 Filling the positions of Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief will open the way for more promotions. Commissioner Walker feels we need to ensure that seasoned officers are available to help mentor the younger officers. He stated the structure of this organization is undergoing change and he is encouraged that Chief Johnson is part of this process. The Board offered their support to Chief Johnson in this restructuring of the department. There was also discussion about minority hiring. Chief Johnson stated he met with several area chiefs who are experiencing similar problems with recruiting minorities. Seems everyone locally is competing for the same candidates. They discussed pooling their resources to recruit outside of the state. DrugTesting:esting: Chief Johnson stated he was surprised to learn no departmental policy existed for drug testing. He encourage the Board to continue working in this area. It was concluded that while work in this area may not resume for a while, this item will remain on the agenda. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaint of Alberta Jordan Commissioner Canady stated this complaint has been forwarded to the Internal Affairs Office. Commissioner Frederick stated she had read Ms. Jordan's letter but was unclear as to her complaint. Mr. McComb stated her son is currently in Jackson prison. Ms. Jordan has made allegations against the trial proceedings, the police officers, and the attorney who represented her son. She is confusing things that are happening now in prison with the arrest which occurred several years ago. City Council also received a copy of her complaint and they want to respond to her for closure. They have invited her to attend other public boards and committees. The situation with her son is unfortunate, but her complaint has no substance. Complaint Procedure Commissioner Walker stated it concerns him seeing complaints such as these and he wondered what type of complaints will resurface once the Chief Investigator's position has been approved. Commissioner Frederick suggested there needed to be some process in place by which once complaints were resolved, they could not resurface as a new complaint for invesitgation. Chief Johnson stated the Board has adopted a policy for guidelines of the Chief Investigator which is problematic in several areas. He will be prepared to bring forth suggested changes at the next meeting. Commissioner Frederick stated when the policy was adopted in September 1997, the Board wanted to revisit it within a year. Mr. McComb stated since the Board has been reviewing Internal Affairs investigation, he feels they will have better insight to make recommendations for policy revisions. Recommended policy changes will be presented by Mr. McComb and Chief Johnson at the next meeting. Board of Police Comrnissioners Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 5 Complaints for February & March 1998 The Board reviewed and placed on file a summary report of complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the months of February & March 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Frederick stated Commissioner Quinney attended the review for February complaints. He reported no problems to her. She reviewed the March complaints. A couple were indicative of having younger, inexperienced officers on the street. Unfortunately this is something we will see from time to time. There were no problematic cases. Commissioner Frederick stated the Internal Affairs records are very carefully documented, interviews are taped, more than one version of each story is documented, and she feels the Internal Affairs Office does and outstanding job in their investigations. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated she forwarded a copy of the two brochures to Art Walker of the Human Relations and Community Services Department. She's heard now that he will be leaving the employ of the City. Chief Johnson stated the brochure was discussed at a cabinet meeting. It was felt a simple, easy-to-read format should be chosen. It was suggested that the design job be given to the City's communication specialist/public relations firm. Hopefully a draft of the brochure will be available for the next Board meeting. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado stated the City Personnel Department has a program called L-Hope whereby they award 25 forgivable loans each year to employees who choose to purchase houses within the city limits. So far this year, 21 employees have taken advantage of these no interest loans. Since the program's inception, 46 loans have been made, 19 to LPD officers. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - Invited everyone to attend the PAL Recognition Banquet. It will be held on Monday, April 27, 1998. Tickets can be obtained from Samantha Davis, Executive Director, at 483-6022. The banquet will be held at the Salvation Army located at 525 N. Pennsylvania. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Created a card showing the Board's support of detention personnel following the outcome of the Swans' trial. Everyone concurred with her sentiments. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned whether or not officers were allowed to smoke on duty. Mr. McComb stated the department views that an unprofessional conduct, but officers are allowed to smoke in their vehicles. Officers have also been instructed not to smoke in anyone's home. While smoking is not prohibited, it is discouraged. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 6 Commissioner Frederick - Questioned the hours of operation for the police department. She stated as a victim's advocate, she has routinely taught victims to go to the nearest police department. She stated that no one is available to greet visitors at all hours at the downtown station or South Precinct. Mr. McComb stated the building is more accessible than before. He stated there is a phone at the front door of the main police building which is connected to a monitor in the detention unit. Detention personnel can dispatch a police officer to that location or they can let people in the building. A desk officer is assigned until 10:00 p.m. Commissioner Frederick stated some police departments advertise their availability with signage, and welcome the public into their buildings. Everyone felt some of the problem was contributed to the design of the existing structure. Chief Johnson stated as we move most of police operations out to precincts, he is hopeful a more public-friendly environment will be created. Commissioner Mejorado - Thanked Captain Perry-Buse for the opportunity to serve on the detective oral boards. She was pleased with the number of minorities represented for promotion. It was an enjoyable experience for her. Commissioner Porter - Thanked Chief Johnson for his visibility in the community at churches and community meetings during his first month here. Commissioner Quinney - Absent. Commissioner Walker - No additional comments. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson stated the North Precinct was approved by City Council last evening despite efforts to block by Ms. Wood. Because City Council did act timely, road construction can begin this summer. The department is looking at an occupation date of January 1999. The Assistant Chief's position has been posted and so far six candidates have signed up. Chief Johnson is working with Ms. Bommarito to develop the selection process. The process will include a written exercise and an interview panel. He is hopeful this process can be completed within three weeks. The Deputy Chief's position was posted on Thursday and will be posted for six days. A process similar to that of the Assistant Chief will be used. He is hopeful to gather a diverse group of the community for the interview process. Chief Johnson has a task force looking at updating many outdated policies and procedures. Many will require Board action. He will begin to submit revised policies as they are reviewed by staff. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 7 OTHER BUSINESS Annual Report from Honolulu Police Commissioners Commissioner Canady discussed the report. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He felt this report would be of special interest to the Complaint Sub- Committee. Minutes from the Human Relations and Community Services Board These minutes were received for informational purposes. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. PUBLIC COMMENT Carol Wood Ms. Wood stated she has received fabulous feedback from several neighborhood organizations and the community is pleased with the new chief. She sits on a Board for the Lansing State Journal and they are looking forward to working with Chief Johnson. While she did pose some opposition to the north precinct, she will be committed to making it the best facility for our department. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m. Mi tee approved at the May 19, 1998 meeting. cky ill, Recording Secretary. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS D-R-A-F-T MEETING MINUTES April 21, 1998 . Members Present: Others Present: ' r '� ' ' 17 Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Chief Robert Johnson LA CITY CLERK Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Commissioner Willard Walker Bruce Holliday, FOP Non-Sups Carol Wood, 1018 Lapeer Absent: Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Commissioner Derrick Quinney (E) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meetings of February 17, 1998, and March 17, 1998, were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Proposal of Mr. Castillo & Wilbur Howard Commissioner Canady stated the position for the Chief Investigator has been posted. He thinks it will be difficult for Mr. Castillo's firm to meet the criteria established in the posting. He felt any individual in that firm could apply for the position. He will communicate this to Mr. Castillo and Mr. Howard. Chief Investigator's Position Sharon Bommarito, City Personnel Director, distributed information concerning the Chief Investigator's position (i.e. position posting, internal posting, summary of recruiting efforts, and position description questionnaire to evaluate the.position). She stated the job will be posted outside until May 15, 1998. So far her department has mailed 20 applications. None of those have been completed and returned. She has received a considerable number of telephone calls regarding the position. She had a conference call with the City Attorney and they have concluded this Board is a public body. Therefore all final interviews must be held in public meetings. She asked for direction from the Board on how to proceed with the selection process. Commissioner Walker questioned if the Board would be required to be involved in the screening and review of application process, or if those duties could be delegated to the City's Personnel Department. Ms. Bommarito agreed that City Personnel would screen applications for the minimum qualifications as posted. She felt the Board should be responsible for determining the Board of Police Commissioners D-R-A-F-T Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 2 process for qualified candidates. It was recommended that a sub-committee be appointed to work with City Personnel in this hiring process. Commissioner Walker will chair, Commissioners Farhat-Reed and Frederick will serve as members of this sub-committee. Ms. Bommarito will contact sub-committee members regarding the first meeting. The Board voiced concerns regarding their inexperience in conducting public interviews. They questioned what impact public scrutiny would have in the interview process. Ms. Bommarito stated qualified candidates must be informed that final interviews will be conducted in a public meeting. It was concluded that the Board would have a specific agenda for the meeting in which public interviews for this position would be conducted and the public would be allowed to comment but not question candidates. It was also concluded that future discussion on this position would be placed under the Human Resources Committee's portion of the agenda. Law Enforcement Risk Reduction Manual Mr. McComb stated Commissioner Porter had requested a summary of the Pre-Arrest Contact Procedure and he disseminated a summary. A copy of the policy and summary is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He stated this policy was originally presented to the Board as part of the Mayor's 13-Point Plan. This procedure goes farther than contacts, it includes stops and frisks as well. Mr. McComb explained the procedure in detail. Essentially, the policy outlines what officer already have the authority to do. He feels the written policy will be a training tool for officers as well as help them to articulate their reasons for a stop and/or frisk. The Board unanimously passed the policy as presented. PUBLIC COMMENTS Carol Wood Ms. Wood stated she is a member of the Police-Community Conference Planning Committee. She stated the quote discussed at the February Board meeting was deleted from the Conference Brochure. She feels the committee would like replacement verbiage and asked for the Board's recommendations to present to the committee. Chief Johnson stated the perception of racism needs to be addressed and the department will have in put in alternative verbiage. He also stated the police department is participating in the conference and will have a strong voice on how it is structured. Ms. Wood also sought the Board's input on topics for the break-out sessions at the conference. The committee's next meeting is Monday, April 27, 1998. It was suggested that the North Precinct be a possible topic. Also that Board members conduct a break-out session regarding how Police Board meetings are conducted as well as the Board's duties and responsibilities. Ms. Wood providee a copy of last year's brochure to commissioners. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioners will contact Ms. Wood with their ideas. Commissioner Canady encouraged FOP representatives to participate in the conference planning. The conference will be held at Riverfront on June 27. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No comments. Board of Police Commissioners D-R-A-F-T Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 3 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters and memorandums of appreciation for LPD employees received during the months of February and March 1998. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS February & March 1998 The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the months of February and March 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The Board received and placed on file the communications report for April 1998. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Walker questioned if all calls to the communication center were recorded. Chief Johnson stated they were. He stated he is looking the possibility of initiating an alternative number (i.e. 311 or 1234) for non- emergency calls. He is also looking at reducing the total number of dispatches by assigning officers to take telephone reports. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Farhat-Reed had no report. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated he met with Sergeant Baylis and their committee should be formed soon. The date of the Awards Ceremonies will be announced at the next Board meeting. Human Resources Committee Hiring: Commissioner Walker stated was concerned about the number of recent retirements and he met with Captain Perry-Buse earlier today to discuss. There are eight people eligible for retirement this month and another six in July. So far, five letters have been received and it is anticipated there will be at least four more. Academy graduation in July is expected to yield good candidates. He is satisfied with the quality of recruits being sought. Commissioner Walker stated he is also concerned about the declining age of the department. He feels we need to pay more attention to training and mentoring. Board of Police Commissioners D-R-A-F-T Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 4 Filling the positions of Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief will open the way for more promotions. Commissioner Walker feels we need to ensure that seasoned officers are available to help mentor the younger officers. He stated the structure of this organization is undergoing change and he is encouraged that Chief Johnson is part of this process. The Board offered their support to Chief Johnson in this restructuring of the department. There was also discussion about minority hiring. Chief Johnson stated he met with several area chiefs who are experiencing similar problems with recruiting minorities. Seems everyone locally is competing for the same candidates. They discussed pooling their resources to recruit outside of the state. Drug Testing; Chief Johnson stated he was surprised to learn no departmental policy existed for drug testing. He encourage the Board to continue working in this area. It was concluded that while work in this area may not resume for a while, this item will remain on the agenda. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaint of Alberta Jordan Commissioner Canady stated this complaint has been forwarded to the Internal Affairs Office. Commissioner Frederick stated she had read Ms. Jordan's letter but was unclear as to her complaint. Mr. McComb stated her son is currently in Jackson prison. Ms. Jordan has made allegations against the trial proceedings, the police officers, and the attorney who represented her son. She is confusing things that are happening now in prison with the arrest which occurred several years ago. City Council also received a copy of her complaint and they want to respond to her for closure. They have invited her to attend other public boards and committees. The situation with her son is unfortunate, but her complaint has no substance. Complaint Procedure Commissioner Walker stated it concerns him seeing complaints such as these and he wondered what type of complaints will resurface once the Chief Investigator's position has been approved. Commissioner Frederick suggested there needed to be some process in place by which once complaints were resolved, they could not resurface as a new complaint for invesitgation. Chief Johnson stated the Board has adopted a policy for guidelines of the Chief Investigator which is problematic in several areas. He will be prepared to bring forth suggested changes at the next meeting. Commissioner Frederick stated when the policy was adopted in September 1997, the Board wanted to revisit it within a year. Mr. McComb stated since the Board has been reviewing Internal Affairs investigation, he feels they will have better insight to make recommendations for policy revisions. Recommended policy changes will be presented by Mr. McComb and Chief Johnson at the next meeting. Board of Police Commissioners D-R-A-F-T Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 5 Complaints for February & March 1998 The Board reviewed and placed on file a summary report of complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the months of February & March 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Frederick stated Commissioner Quinney attended the review for February complaints. He reported no problems to her. She reviewed the March complaints. A couple were indicative of having younger, inexperienced officers on the street. Unfortunately this is something we will see from time to time. There were no problematic cases. Commissioner Frederick stated the Internal Affairs records are very carefully documented, interviews are taped, more than one version of each story is documented, and she feels the Internal Affairs Office does and outstanding job in their investigations. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated she forwarded a copy of the two brochures to Art Walker of the Human Relations and Community Services Department. She's heard now that he will be leaving the employ of the City. Chief Johnson stated the brochure was discussed at a cabinet meeting. It was felt a simple, easy-to-read format should be chosen. It was suggested that the design job be given to the City's communication specialist/public relations firm. Hopefully a draft of the brochure will be available for the next Board meeting. Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado stated the City Personnel Department has a program called L-Hope whereby they award 25 forgivable loans each year to employees who choose to purchase houses within the city limits. So far this year, 21 employees have taken advantage of these no interest loans. Since the program's inception, 46 loans have been made, 19 to LPD officers. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - Invited everyone to attend the PAL Recognition Banquet. It will be held on Monday, April 27, 1998. Tickets can be obtained from Samantha Davis, Executive Director, at 483-6022. The banquet will be held at the Salvation Army located at 525 N. Pennsylvania. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Created a card showing the Board's support of detention personnel following the outcome of the Swans' trial. Everyone concurred with her sentiments. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned whether or not officers were allowed to smoke on duty. Mr. McComb stated the department views that an unprofessional conduct, but officers are allowed to smoke in their vehicles. Officers have also been instructed not to smoke in anyone's home. While smoking is not prohibited, it is discouraged. Board of Police Commissioners D-R-A-F-T Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 6 Commissioner Frederick - Questioned the hours of operation for the police department. She stated as a victim's advocate, she has routinely taught victims to go to the nearest police department. She stated that no one is available to greet visitors at all hours at the downtown station or South Precinct. Mr. McComb stated the building is more accessible than before. He stated there is a phone at the front door of the main police building which is connected to a monitor in the detention unit. Detention personnel can dispatch a police officer to that location or they can let people in the building. A desk officer is assigned until 10:00 p.m. Commissioner Frederick stated some police departments advertise their availability with signage, and welcome the public into their buildings. Everyone felt some of the problem was contributed to the design of the existing structure. Chief Johnson stated as we move most of police operations out to precincts, he is hopeful a more public-friendly environment will be created. Commissioner Me'o� rado - Thanked Captain Perry-Buse for the opportunity to serve on the detective oral boards. She was pleased with the number of minorities represented for promotion. It was an enjoyable experience for her. Commissioner Porter - Thanked Chief Johnson for his visibility in the community at churches and community meetings during his first month here. Commissioner Quinney - Absent. Commissioner Walker - No additional comments. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Johnson stated the North Precinct was approved by City Council last evening despite efforts to block by Ms. Wood. Because City Council did act timely, road construction can begin this summer. The department is looking at an occupation date of January 1999. The Assistant Chief's position has been posted and so far six candidates have signed up. Chief Johnson is working with Ms. Bommarito to develop the selection process. The process will include a written exercise and an interview panel. He is hopeful this process can be completed within three weeks. The Deputy Chief's position was posted on Thursday and will be posted for six days. A process similar to that of the Assistant Chief will be used. He is hopeful to gather a diverse group of the community for the interview process. Chief Johnson has a task force looking at updating many outdated policies and procedures. Many will require Board action. He will begin to submit revised policies as they are reviewed by staff. Board of Police Commissioners D-R-A-F-T Meeting Minutes April 21, 1998 Page 7 OTHER BUSINESS Annual Report from Honolulu Police Commissioners Commissioner Canady discussed the report. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He felt this report would be of special interest to the Complaint Sub- Committee. Minutes from the Human Relations and Community Services Board These minutes were received for informational purposes. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. PUBLIC COMMENT Carol Wood Ms. Wood stated she has received fabulous feedback from several neighborhood organizations and the community is pleased with the new chief. She sits on a Board for the Lansing State Journal and they are looking forward to working with Chief Johnson. While she did pose some opposition to the north precinct, she will be committed to making it the best facility for our department. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m. BvARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES March 17, 1998 `^'Ef!/ :. I°d, Y -Lf Pill 12- 17 Members Present: Others Present: , '�C C1 I Y CLERKCommissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Robert Johnson L�� �,Sli� Commissioner Maria Mejorado Paul Teszlewicz Commissioner Grady Porter Paul McComb Commissioner Derrick Quinney Vicky Gill Absent: Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed (E) Commissioner Deb Frederick (E) Commissioner Willard Walker (A) A quorum was never established and the meeting was not called to order. The Board received information from the following: Carol Wood Suggested the Board write a letter to Reverend Freddie Thomas, Chairman of the Committee to Organize the 2nd Annual Police-Community Relations Conference, asking him to consider deleting verbiage from last year's brochure: "To the extent that racism, harassment, excessive force and brutality exist within the Lansing Police Department, the conference will make recommendations for their elimination." She also disseminated a flyer for a Forest View Citizen's Association meeting to be held at the University Club 93435 Forest Road, at 6:45 on March 31, 1998. She encouraged Board members to attend if possible. John Castillo & Wilbur Howard They stated they are available to answer any questions the Board might have regarding their proposal to manage the citizen's complaint procedure as opposed to hiring a civilian investigator. Chief Johnson stated he has not read their proposal but his initial inclination is to have police investigate complaints. He is not a proponent of farming out internal affairs investigations because of garrity issues and protection of employee's rights. Mr. Castillo presented Chief Johnson with a copy of their proposal. Mr. Castillo also invited Board members to participate in the 18th Tournament of Friendship. He distributed flyers for this golfing tournament. Captain Helen Perry-Buse Thanked Commissioner Canady and Mejorado for their participation in the oral board processes. R. L. Hester Stated he was present on behalf of the Department of Human Relations and Community Services. He will be the Department's representative at future Board meetings. No business was conducted. The meeting was cancelled for lack of a quorum. BVARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONEnS MEETING MINUTES February 17, 1998 -4 Fib 12: 17 Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Paul Teszlewicz, WdII- 1 Dffilc6LERK Commissioner Willard Walker, Vice-Chairman Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner David Maxsam Guests: Commissioner Grady Porter Mayor David Hollister Commissioner Derrick Quinney Robert L. Johnson Armida Valdez(former commissioner) Absent: Commissioner Maria Mejorado (E) Members of the Public: See Sign-In Sheet CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Presentation to (former) Commissioner Armida Valdez Commissioner Canady read a resolution of the Board and presented Ms. Valdez with a framed plaque and photograph. He stated everyone was appreciative of her service to this community. Presentation to Commissioner Maxsam Commissioner Maxsam has submitted a letter of resignation as he will be relocating to the Washington DC area. He thanked Commissioner Maxsam for his service to the community. Commissioner Maxsam was presented a framed plaque and photograph. Presentation to Chief Teszlewicz Commissioner Canady read a resolution of the Board and presented Chief Teszlewicz with a framed plaque. On behalf of the community he thanked Chief Teszlewicz for 26 years of service to the citizens of Lansing. Confirmation of New Chief Commissioner Canady introduced Mr. Robert Johnson and asked if Board members had questions of Mr. Johnson. Commissioner Frederick stated she has seen his resume and feels he is highly qualified candidate. She questioned what plans he had to recruit and retain more female and minority employees. Mr. Johnson stated he would use all of the traditional methods as well as provide an attractive environment to not only bring people here, but keep them here. He feels if there is a good environment, people will want to stay here. Commissioner Frederick questioned what was the most important thing he had learned in his last two positions of chief (in Jackson, Michigan; and in Jackson, Mississippi). He stated it was to be adaptable and to look at each situation as unique. And, to not only use his skills and experience, but to rely on common sense. Commissioner Frederick questioned what he would do to build a rapport with his staff. He felt consistency in everything establishes a sense of fairness and integrity. He Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 2 feels is it important to engender a sense of trust within the organization. Commissioner Frederick stated that during this hiring process there have been a lot of rumors regarding clouds over his past two positions. She asked him to expound on those situations. Mr. Johnson felt there were no clouds. He stated that at no time has his integrity been in question. He stated he is a strong-willed individual with a strong sense of what is good and bad. He stated he has in the past had to work with some people who did not hold these same beliefs and it was for that reason that he left those two positions. Commissioner Frederick stated she noticed on his resume that he had developed customer satisfaction forms at his last two departments. She asked him to describe what those were and how they were used to improve services. Mr. Johnson explained they were short surveys of about 15 or 16 questions which were sent to individuals who had contact with the police department during a specified time period. For example, one month he surveyed the number of people who had residential burglaries. He questioned them about their satisfaction with their police contact and the outcome of the officer's investigation. He learned that the majority of the victims felt officers should have taken fingerprints. He shared that information with the officers and recommended that officers spend more time at burglary scenes gathering evidence. Commissioner Frederick stated she liked the idea of customer surveys and encouraged him to implement them at LPD. Commissioner Maxsam wanted to ensure that Mr. Johnson was supportive of strengthening the progress of community policing already begun in Lansing. Mr. Johnson stated he is a strong proponent of community policing. He stated he takes an operational philosophy rather than a problematic approach. He feels officers should be knowledgeable of their team area as well as be responsible for service to that area. He feels before community policing can work, everyone must be involved, including first responders. Commissioner Maxsam questioned his stand on a separate North Precinct. Mr. Johnson stated he is in favor of decentralization. He feels officers should be closer to the community. Commissioner Walker stated as part of the selection committee, he feels this search was a tedious process to find the best candidate for our new chief of police. He stated most of the selection committee members were present tonight and he invited them to identify themselves to the public. He stated there were public forums and suggestions from those meetings were incorporated into their process. He stated the committee is presenting Chief Johnson as the best qualified applicant. They found him to be a very driven, professional individual. Commissioner Porter concurred with the recommendation. Commissioner Quinney recognized Michigan as a strong labor state and Mississippi as a right to work state, he questioned whether or not Mr. Johnson had or planned to develop a rapport with the labor community in Lansing. Mr. Johnson stated he hadn't forgotten the lessons of unions. He stated he had been on both sides of the table in that he has negotiated contracts as well as administered them. There have been some instances where he has not been pleased with the language, but he still recognizes the importance of labor unions and employee associations. He stated that while Mississippi does not have labor unions, they do have associations. Commissioner Quinney stated on his list of accomplishments was a juvenile offender program and asked Mr. Johnson to expound on that program. Mr. Johnson stated his department in Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 3 Jackson, Mississippi worked with the juvenile court judges to develop a juvenile work program by which juvenile offenders reported on the weekends to do community work. He stated they did things like cut grass, pick up trash, and clean ditches. The program was quite similar to that of an adult penal farm. Commissioner Canady stated he enjoyed serving on the Mayor's Selection Committee and thanked everyone for their efforts. Mayor Hollister thanked Commissioners Canady and Walker for their participation and leadership role in the Selection Committee. According to our City Charter, the Chief of Police shall be appointed by the Mayor in consultation with the Board of Police Commissioners. He stated he feels he went beyond that requirement. Commissioner Walker lead the process when Chief Jerry Boles was selected. He stated this search was unique in that over 200 people participated in public forums. These public forums were recommended by Commissioner Walker. Questions and comments were taken from the public and incorporated into their process. The Mayor stated that while he received all nine applicant's names, the top three candidates were selected by the committee. Those top three individuals participated in two separate interviews - one by the Mayor and one by the Mayor's cabinet. He stated his cabinet holds a team approach to running our city's government. They felt it was important to show the new candidate this was a team effort. He stated his office has been inundated with calls supporting Chief Johnson. The Mayor of Jackson, Mississippi called and spoke highly of Chief Johnson. The Mayor stated he was pleased and delighted to present to this Board and the citizens of Lansing Mr. Robert Johnson as his candidate for Lansing's new Chief of Police. Commissioner Frederick made motion to accept Mr. Johnson as the new Chief. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Porter. The vote was unanimous to accept Mr. Johnson. Commissioner Canady invited Chief Johnson to comment. Chief Johnson stated he appreciated the Board's vote of confidence. He introduced his wife, Doris, and his oldest son, Jeff. He stated he appreciated the Mayor's kind words. He intends to be the best Chief of Police as possible with the support of this Board as well as that of the community. He is looking forward to working with everyone. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of January 20, 1998, Complaint Sub-Committee of February 11, 1998, and closed sessions of December 16, 1997, and January 20, 1998, were approved, and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Policy on Promotional Procedure/Union's Concerns Chief Teszlewicz reported that all three of the union's concerns have been addressed and resolved at this point. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 4 Law Enforcement Risk Reduction Manual The presentation on a proposed procedure for pre-arrest contact was tabled. Mr. McComb will have a handout at the next meeting. Discussion to take place at the April meeting PUBLIC COMMENTS Commissioner Canady asked that speakers limit their remarks to three minutes. He also asked them to refrain from asking questions of Mr. Johnson. Al Chapman Questioned the Board regarding the salary, retirement and other benefits of the new chief. He questioned whether or not the Board was aware of the total cost of the new chief. Mr. Canady stated the Board was aware of the salary range as published in the job posting. This Board has no authority to negotiate salary and/or benefits with any employee. Mr. Johnson questioned whether or not this Board had any fiduciary responsibility regarding the total cost to the city of a new chief. He questioned if the citizens of Lansing will ever know the total cost. Lloyd Teets Mr. Teets relayed a conversation he had with Reverend Stone regarding a new police chief prior to the selection of Mr. Johnson. His predictions were correct. Commissioner Canady thanked him for his comments. Larry Brou hg ton Confirmed to the Board that the information he requested was sent to him. He relayed a complaint of a friend of his by the name of Maxine. Maxine's daughter was held at knife point, the police refused to investigate the case and it was lost in court. Maxine tried again to file a complaint and Internal Affairs refused to take the complaint. There was some discussion about the avenues available to her at this point. It was concluded that Maxine would write her complaint to this Board. Mr. Kennon explained his committee (PCR) will be working to educate the public as to the role of a police officer and the role of the prosecutor. He feels that some complainants misdirect their anger toward the police department when it should clearly lie with the prosecutor. Chief Teszlewicz stated he could not discuss Maxine's complaint with Mr. Broughton because he was not involved in the case. He stated there are other circumstances which he cannot discuss in this open forum, but encouraged Mr. Broughton to have Maxine direct her written complaint to this Board. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 5 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file seven letters and memorandums of appreciation for LPD employees. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS January 1998 The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of January 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this reporting period. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report No report was submitted. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Farhat-Reed stated the department's budget will be presented to the mayor tomorrow afternoon. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated he will be meeting with other committee members soon to review all the letters of recommendations for awards and citations. Human Resources Committee Commissioner Walker had no report. Complaint Sub-Committee Complaints for January 1998 The Board reviewed and placed on file a summary report of complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of January 1998. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Frederick stated she reviewed four of the complaints and found nothing to prompt any further discussion. She felt no closed session would be required. She wanted to assure the public police officers do receive discipline. She has learned that Internal Affairs does a good job at investigating complaints. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 6 Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick reported the sub-committee met on February 11, 1998, to work on the brochure and clarify some issues regarding the procedure. The committee reviewed a couple of versions of a complaint brochure: one, is more clearly in keeping with the verbiage of the policy adopted by the Board; the other, provides more information in lay terms. She feels the two need to be combined. Update of Chief Investigator's Position Mayor Hollister stated the Public Safety Committee has approved and forwarded the positions of Chief Investigator and Deputy Chief to the Ways and Means Committee. They will be meeting at 4:00 p.m. tomorrow and he encouraged commissioners to attend and support the positions. If their vote is affirmative, the positions should go to City Council next Monday night. Commissioner Frederick stated there are issues which need to be addressed such as (1) who receives mail, (2) where records will be maintained, (3) which reports are to be kept confidential, (4) who will have access to the records, (5) who will monitor complaints, and (6) what process will be used for interviews. She feels these issued need to be finalized before we hire the chief investigator. Chief Teszlewicz stated the Chief Investigator's position was promised to the citizens of Lansing during the last election and feels it is important to follow through with the funding and hiring aspects. He encouraged Board members to support this position. Commissioner Frederick encouraged Board members to speak with their City Council representatives. She feels the media has taken shots at the Board for their inability to move forward with this position. Incentives Committee No report available in the absence of Commissioner Mejorado. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - No additional comments. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - No additional comments. Commissioner Frederick - No additional comments. Commissioner Mejorado - Absent. Commissioner Porter - No additional comments. Commissioner Quinney - Congratulated Chief Johnson on his appointment. He stated he was out of town during the appointment and he is concerned about how the whole process was handled. He stated the community's perception of this Board is that it is not as effective as it should be. He stated he is a new appointee of the Board and he accepted this position to hopefully bring about changes to strengthen the community. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 7 Commissioner Maxsam - Concurred with the comments of Commissioner Quinney. He stated he has continuously advocated that this Board needs to fulfill its Charter responsibilities. He feels during his two years here the Board has taken giant steps to do this, but there is still a long way to go. He regrets not being able to be a part of all the exciting changes which are about to take place due to his relocation out of the area. Commissioner Maxsam stated he wanted to have his Police Commissioner's badge as a memento of his two years of service to Lansing. He asked the Board if they would pass a resolution to pay the $70 fee for his badge. Commissioners felt that since officers are required to pay for their badges, it would not be fair for the Board to pay for Commissioner Maxsam's badge. Commissioner Canady entertained a motion from the Board to purchase and present Commissioner Maxsam his badge. There was none. Commissioner Canady asked Commissioner Maxsam, if he wanted to keep his badge, to get his personal check to Ms. Gill before he left the area. Commissioner Walker - No additional comments. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Teszlewicz stated in addition to the Chief Investigator's position, the Ways and Means Committee will also be considering the Deputy Chief's position. He stated the department's pistol range has been closed for 18 months. The original range was designed to handle .38 rounds, but several years ago the department went to .40 rounds. He stated one round went through the barriers a quarter mile into a local residence which prompted the closing of the range. He stated the City Council has approved a $50,000 transfer to the police department to finalize the architectural design. A $2 million bond package will be put together and he is hopeful the range will be opened by the fall. The new facility will allow for pistol and rifle shooting. The thanked everyone who has worked hard on this project. The Committee of the Whole is expected to consider North Precinct proposals on February 26, 1998, at 4:00 p.m. Proposals for the Pruden and Worthington Buildings will be presented. He encouraged Board members to voice their support to their City Council members. Chief Teszlewicz stated he feels it will be most beneficial for the department and the City to select the Pruden Building. There will be a fund raiser for the Curtis Kids, quintuplets expected by Officer Leith Curtis and 911 Technician Lori Curtis, on Saturday, March 28, 1998, at 7:00 p.m. at the Pro Bowl West. He encouraged everyone to come out and offer their support. He encouraged everyone to order their tickets early as there will be only 300 sold. Tickets can be purchased from Officer Elizabeth Bonello at the South Precinct. He stated the community has been very supportive. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 8 Chief Teszlewicz stated he has submitted his retirement letter to the City. His retirement is effective March 20, 1998. He stated he began his career as a police cadet and he is the only Chief to have been promoted through all the ranks. He stated it has been a pleasure working with this Board and commended them for their efforts made this year on the complaint procedure. He stated he is encouraged by all the good things going on in Lansing. He stated he had taken classes at MSU with Chief Johnson many years ago, but has only maintained a small contact over the past 20 years. He stated Chief Johnson is highly thought of and he is excited to know that Chief Johnson will be leading the police department into the next century. OTHER BUSINESS There was no other business to come befor the Board. PUBLIC COMMENT Charlene Decker Stated she was a 36-year resident and felt Chief Teszlewicz was a "class act." She knows him to be an honest man and that while she is sorry to see him retiring, she wished him the best. She especially thanked him for his work with the truancy program. She welcomed Chief Johnson and stated she was glad to hear he had honest and integrity because the citizens of Lansing need that, in addition to fairness. She questioned whether or not Chief Johnson would ever use the Mobile Field Force Procedure against peaceful citizens of Lansing, referring to the Melling incident. Chief Johnson stated he did not know enough about the incident to respond to her question. He stated he has received diversity and sensitivity training and felt he possessed the knowledge regarding the appropriate use of force. He felt he would do anything necessary to improve the decision-making skills of his staff as well. She asked Chief Johnson what he would do regarding any sexual harassment charges brought against one of his employees. He stated those types of complaints would certainly be addressed promptly. She questioned whether or not citizens would be allowed to speak directly with him or if they would be required to go through the chain-of-command. Chief Johnson stated he would listen to anyone, anytime. Commissioner Canady reminded everyone this portion of the meeting was reserved for public comments, not questions. Lloyd Teets Welcomed Chief Johnson and his strong community policing beliefs. He stated as a neighborhood leader, he was instrumental in having their community policing officer moved back into their community. Mr. Teets questioned why the department would spend $3 million on a range when they could purchase for $1 the Marshall Street facility. He stated that facility will be closing within the next 1-2 years and feels it would be wiser to rent range services from someone else until that building could be obtained. He feels expenditures for a new facility in Lansing is a waste of taxpayers dollars. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 17, 1998 Page 9 Gary Hartman Stated the National guard will be four or five years in vacating their facility. Bob Kennon Stated he is the Chairman of the Police-Community Relations Committee. At their last meeting they had an 11-minute discussion regarding how their group could express to Chief Teszlewicz their gratitude for his 26 years of service to the citizens of Lansing. ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Canady thanked everyone for coming out tonight and welcoming our new Chief of Police. He stated he had an outstanding working relationship with Chief Teszlewicz and will be committee to that same relationship with Chief Johnson. He assured the citizens present he was available to them at any time. He welcomed Chief Johnson to Lansing. There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:56 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS ;'; ;I <<{ r _ MEETING MINUTES oo January 20, 1998 .- ,: 111. + rr11 12: 17 Members Present: Others Present: LANSING CITY CLERK Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner David Maxsam Commissioner Grady Porter Guests: Commissioner Maria Mejorado Lt. Chris Magnus Absent: Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Derrick Quinney (A) Wilbur Howard, 6200 Lerner Way Commissioner Willard Walker (E) John Castillo, 4264 Greenwood Dr. Ken Gill, 4152 E. Berry Rd. Bruce Holliday, FOP Non-Sups Joel Maatman, FOP Sups Virginia Bozek, 419 Clarendon Martha Greenhusted, March For Justice CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. after a quorum was established. He indicated the meeting would adjourn no later than 7:00 p.m. so as not to be in conflict with the City Council meeting. PUBLIC COMMENTS No member of the public was present for this portion of public comments. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Presentation by Mr. Howard & Mr. Castillo These gentlemen represented Castillo and Associates. They submitted a proposal for a possible contractual arrangement between their company and the City of Lansing to investigate and resolve citizen complaints. They offered this proposal in contrast to hiring a full-time Chief Investigator. Commissioners questioned how long the company had been in business and Mr. Castillo stated since June of 1997. Commissioner Canady thanked them for the presentation and promised a reply regarding the Board's decision on how to proceed with this proposal. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the meeting of December 16, 1997, were reviewed and accepted with a minor revision. Commissioner Frederick stated she had 15 weeks (not months) of law school left (p. 4). A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes January 20, 1998 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Detention Recommendations/Status Report Lt. Chris Magnus disseminated copies of a new restraint policy as well as restraint statistics for 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He reviewed the policy and answered questions from Board members. He stated the policy is consistent with the Board's recommendations. In the policy under section VI, paragraph three, Commissioners recommended that 15 minute checks be the very maximum amount of time between physical checks of a restrained prisoner. The Board felt that electronic monitoring is an inadequate replacement for frequent physical checks and they suggested that physical checks occur as frequently as every five minutes in addition to continuous electronic monitoring Lt. Magnus will re-look at this language. Regarding the restraint statistics, Lt. Magnus noted in relation to the total number of prisoners (17,646), less than one percent (.008) of prisoners were restrained (133). The restraint report will be provided to the Board on a monthly basis. There are some concerns that need addressing with prisoners who are transported daily by the Ingham County Sheriff's Department. There seems to be a problem with information sharing regarding county prisoner health and mental status (e.g. active TB; acute psychosis). Lt. Magnus explained that the transporting officer does not stay with the prisoners, nor do they have the needed medical information. Lt. Magnus is working the county officials to hopefully resolve this situation. Contractors for the audio/video portion have indicated costs will be $10,000 less than originally anticipated. The entire video portion should be operational by February, but the audio portion will not be completed until about March. Lt. Magnus is pleased with the level of cooperation from the staff of Community Mental Health (CMH) and detention personnel. Information exchange has improved because CMH is now sharing patient care information. They are providing prisoner evaluations on the day shift. In the 1998-99 budget monies have been requested to extend these evaluations to evening/night hours as well as weekends and holidays. Commissioners were encouraged to see recommendations from this Board and our citizens included in this policy. Commissioner Canady suggested that when the entire detention renovation project has been completed that the Board again be invited to tour the facility. Lt. Magnus will notify the Board of the completion date (expected in March). Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes January 20, 1998 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE FOP Supervisor's Union Lt. Maatman was sad to learn Chief Teszlewicz is retiring. He is thankful for his 27 years with the department. He was hopeful Chief Teszlewicz would have stayed as the permanent chief. He stated the FOP is concerned with the current openings (Chief, Assistant Chief, Deputy Chief) and from where the next generation of leadership will be selected. The union does not want an officer's career path to be diminished. Lt. Maatman feels we have qualified command officers who can fill these positions. Additionally, the union is asking to be kept informed of discussions regarding (1) drug testing; (2) Chief Investigator's position; and (3) Deputy Chief's position. The union wants to continue working with the Board on these issues and they're asking for the Board's support to fill these positions. FOP Non-Supervisor's Union Officer Holliday stated he too is sad to see Chief Teszlewicz leave. He was appreciative of his open door policy and his willingness to listen and provide positive feedback. He shared two concerns of his union regarding the Promotional Procedure which was passed by the Board in November 1997. Detective IB The procedure referenced a position of Detective IB. He stated LPD does not have such a position, it's actually Detective IIB. He feels this is a typographical error and questioned whether or not that had been or would be corrected. Promotional Probation In this same policy on page 9, under XIII A, he stated there were some concerns about this probationary period because the member is terminated from the FOP Non- Supervisor's Union on day 365. He felt this should be watched carefully to ensure that there were no problems with probation. Confidentiality/Disclosure On page 9, under XIV, B, the policy refers only to what the candidate is prohibited from disclosing. The union would like to see verbiage in the policy which would also prohibit the people directly or indirectly involved in the process from disclosure. It was noted that confidentiality is covered in orientation at oral boards. Commissioner Canady assured Officer Holliday the promotional procedure is confidential. The Board asked Chief Teszlewicz to review the union's concerns and report back at the next meeting. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes January 20, 1998 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD received during the month of December 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Complaints against the Department The Board placed on file complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of December 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The Board unanimously agreed to enter into a closed session following this meeting to discuss the outcome of the internal affairs investigations. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS December 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of December 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board Reports for December were reviewed and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The report for December was reviewed and placed on file. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed stated the budget has been submitted to the Mayor's Office and is in the approval process at this time. Awards & Citations Committee Several letters have been received and are being reviewed by the committee. Human Resources Committee No Report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes January 20, 1998 Incentives Committee Commissioner Mejorado is attempting to contact past Board members who served on this committee for an update. Complaint Committee Brochure: The brochure is pending. Its completion is contingent upon whether or not the new City Council will approve the Chief Investigator's position or if the Board is to continue reviewing the outcome of Internal Affairs investigations. She stated the new Public Safety Committee wants to meet with the Board. Commissioner Frederick stated she would like to have a sub-committee meeting prior to the next Board meeting. She invited the FOP unions to attend the meeting. Notices will be posted when the date has been finalized. Sub-Committee The Complaint Sub-Committee is meeting monthly with Internal Affairs to review employees to review citizen complaints. She stated these are confidential discipline meetings in which the Board receives information regarding completed complaint investigations. The Board has learned from several months of review, that this process is working well and that investigations are very thorough. The Board voted unanimously to enter into a closed session tonight following adjournment of this meeting to discuss these cases. Complaint of Alberta Jordan Commissioner Canady stated he was in receipt of a written complaint file from the Legal Department. He stated he wanted to turn the complaint over to the Internal Affairs Unit for investigation. The Board concurred. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Due to time constraints, there were no commissioner comments. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Teszlewicz stated he and Commissioner Canady will be meeting with the Committee of the Whole to discuss the positions of Chief Investigator and Deputy Chief as well as the North Precinct within the next week or so. OTHER BUSINESS Board of Police Commissioners 1998 Each member of the Board received a copy of Board member's addresses and telephone numbers. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes January 20, 1998 Dismissal of Civil Rights Complaint of Janette Richmond Mr. McComb reviewed the complaint and dismissal. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Law Enforcement Risk Reduction Manual Mr. McComb explained the procedures were developed by the City's current insurance carrier. He stated this manual contains a good pre-arrest contact procedure. The Mayor has asked that the Board adopt these procedures. Commissioner Porter agreed these were good procedures and questioned whether or not these procedures could be summarized/reduced for commissioners. Mr. McComb agreed this could be done. Mr. McComb stated he would like the Board to be involved with the adoption of these procedures so they can be implemented and placed into the employee handbook. Commissioner Frederick questioned whether or not the Board could have a presentation on the law regarding contact, citizen investigation detention, and arrests. Chief Teszlewicz stated he will have someone available at the next meeting. Commissioner Canady requested that members of the FOP unions also be present for that presentation. PUBLIC COMMENTS Virginia Bozek Ms. Bozek received the Board's response to her letter of November 18, 1997. She stated she disagreed with the Board's decision not to investigate the Lansing Police Department's role in her son, Gary Bozek's death. She read and submitted another letter outlining her points of disagreement. The Board accepted and placed the letter on file. A copy of the letter is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. ADJOURNMENT There being no other regular business to discuss, the meeting adjourned into a closed session at 6:55 p.m.