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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 Board of Police Commissioners Minutes - All MEMORANDUM LEDATE: December �ky n, Senior Secretary 6, 1996d of Police Commissioners As requested the meeting schedule for 1997 is as follows: Tuesday January 21, 1997 5:30 p.m. . South Precinct Tuesday February 18, 1997 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday March 18, 1997 3 o 5;30-p.m. South Precinct Tuesday April 15, 1997 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday May 20, 1997 S lid 0 Tuesday June 17, 1997 5:30 � South Precinct p.m. South Precinct Tuesday July 15, 1997 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday August 19, 1997 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday September 16, 1997 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday October 21, 1997 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday November 18, 1997 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Tuesday December 16, 1997 11:30 a.m. 2nd Floor Conference Room The South Precinct is located at 3400 South Cedar Street, and the telephone number there is 272-7454. The second floor classroom is located at the main police building at 120 West Michigan Avenue. The telephone number is 483-4800. If you require any additional information, please let me know. :vg CC) �Q n U'c�sz d`�3�'� �` sr� � BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS _ MEETING MINUTES `a �� December 16, 1997 lU C1 TY CLERK Members Present: Others Present: 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 Derrick Quinney Jim DeLine, Budget Office Commissioner Maria Mejorado Lieutenant Mike Mezzano Captain Don Dawson Absent: Commissioner Willard Walker CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 12:25 p.m. after a quorum was established. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of November 18, 1997, were reviewed and accepted. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Detention Recommendations/Status Report This report will now be presented on a quarterly basis by Lt. Magnus in January. Chief Teszlewicz stated the new ceiling and new lighting has been completed in the jail. It is anticipated that the color video system should be installed by mid-January. This system will have 24 hour monitoring with listening capabilities as well as panic buttons for automatic filming a particular cell/area. Letter to Mrs. Bozek Commissioner Canady reviewed a copy of a letter to Mrs. Bozek in response to her letter to the Board. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 16, 1997 Page 2 Letter to Mr. Broughton A copy of the letter responding to Mr. Broughton's request for a copy of the New Complaint Procedure is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. PUBLIC COMMENTS None present. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE None present. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD received during the month of November 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 October 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 November 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of October 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board Reports for October & November were reviewed and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The report for November was reviewed and placed on file. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. COMMITTEE REPORTS Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 16, 1997 Page 3 Budget Committee Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed stated she found this experience uplifting and informational. She thanked Jim DeLine, Captain Dawson and Lieutenant Mezzano for their efforts in assembling the Board's budget books. The Board agrees with the community policing philosophy and is supporting all programs to that end as well as staffing and front-loading issues. Commissioner Maxsam questioned the plans to facilitate the Board's recommendation for mental health workers in the detention area. Mr. DeLine explained jail administration is exploring alternatives in dealing with high-risk individuals. Phase one of their plans are for detention personnel to work with community hospitals and mental health facilities to identify individuals who may be better served elsewhere. Monies in this year's budget are to develop such a program. The Board also questioned whether or not the budget monies for the lap top computers included upgrades. Captain Dawson stated upgrades are provided at no additional cost. He explained this project is 99% funded by a federal technology grant. A motion was made and properly seconded to accept the budget as presented. Mr. DeLine will forward the Board's recommendation for approval to the Mayor. Chief Teszlewicz thanked this was his first year to participate in the internal part of the budget. He thanked Mr. DeLine, Lieutenant Mezzano and Captain Dawson for their work in preparing the department's budget. Awards & Citations Committee No report. Human Resources Committee No report. Incentives Committee No report. Complaint Committee Brochure: Commissioner Frederick explained the Chief Investigator's position was tabled until after the first of the year when new City Council members are installed. She is unclear why the position has not already been approved since the funding for the position has long since been approved. Chief Teszlewicz stated community residents have request the Chief Investigator be someone with a police background. Additionally the police unions have become involved again. Questions regarding location, supervision, duties and responsibilities are still unanswered. Chief Teszlewicz feels there is still room for compromise and is hopeful these details can be resolved by January. Commissioner Canady agreed there was no need to discuss with outgoing council members; he feels waiting for the new council members to be installed is appropriate. Commissioner Frederick Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 16, 1997 Page 4 has been told that Dave Wienner has also been asked to draft a complaint brochure. She stated there is a need for the brochure. She stated drafts have already been initiated and suggested Ms. Gill send Mr. Wienner a copy of the Board's draft. She would like to withhold any further discussion until everyone's recommendations/suggestions have been submitted. Sub-Committee to review discipline: The sub-committee met with Internal Affairs officers to review investigations which were closed during the month of November. No discussion has occurred on those cases reviewed. A motion was made and unanimously passed to enter into closed session to discuss those cases. Commissioner Frederick stated she felt it would be convenient if the sub- committee adopted a regular meeting date for the Internal Affairs review. Sub-Committee members will discuss among themselves and let Ms. Gill know their desires. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady Thanked everyone for their support of his as Chairman this year. He thanked Chief Teszlewicz and Mr. McComb for their hard work during this past year. He assured everyone he was available to them if he is needed. He wished everyone happy holidays. Commissioner Walker Absent. Commissioner Porter No comment. Commissioner Mejorado Wished everyone happy holidays. Stated she is glad to be a new member and is anxious to learn more about her duties and responsibilities. Commissioner Frederick Welcomed Commissioner Mejorado to the Board. She stated she has 15 more weeks of law school. She stated this has been quite an interesting year for this Board. Commissioner Farhat-Reed Thanked Chief Teszlewicz, Commissioner Porter and Commissioner Quinney for attending the AFLCIO's open house. She thanked Commissioner Canady for attending the neighborhood Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 16, 1997 Page 5 watch Christmas party. She thanked Chief Teszlewicz for his attempts to control departmental rumors. She stated there is a rumor that she's quitting the Police Board. She stated she is unclear who started the rumor, but assured everyone that it is not true. She stated she is not a quitter and enjoys her job on the Board. Commissioner Maxsam No further comment. Commissioner Ouinney Wished everyone happy holidays! ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Teszlewicz stated Assistant Chief David Sinclair will be retiring effective January 8, 1998, following a 35-year career with the department. He has served the department well and is wished good luck in his retirement. In the upcoming LCC Police Academy the department has six confirmed minority candidates, and possibly eight. The city's minority hiring goal for 1998 is 20% and the department is working to surpass that goal. Chief Teszlewicz thanked the human resources staff for all their hard work this year in the area of recruitment and hiring. The Swans' civil case has been delayed until early 1998, the exact date is unknown at this time. Chief Teszlewicz anticipates there will be a lot of overtime required to accommodate trial needs and replacements for those testifying. Chief Teszlewicz stated the administrative staff is reviewing policies, procedures and practices to learn why only three of our 35 sergeants signed up for the promotional test. Administration is looking at assignments as they have learned the lieutenant position is very demanding. Additionally, there are sergeants who make more money than some lieutenants and captains. This discrepancy is related to overtime for court appearances and community meetings. He will keep the Board informed of their findings and proposed solutions. OTHER BUSINESS Three-Minute Rule Commissioner Canady questioned whether or not the Board needed to enforce the three-minute rule as does the City Council. Commissioner Maxsam felt such a limitation was not warranted as this Board serves as the only citizen review of the police department and needs to be accessible to the public. He feels public participation at this meetings is minimal and unless there are larger numbers of people attending and wishing to address the Board, no time limit is necessary. Commissioner Frederick acknowledged other Boards have time limits and Board Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes December 16, 1997 Page 6 members do not engage in discussions with the public. She stated she did not oppose two public comment sessions - one at the beginning of the meeting and one at the end to accommodate those who wish to comment on the proceedings of the meeting. She feels it is a mistake to engage in lengthy discussion with the public at regular meetings. Commissioner Quinney agrees with the recommendations, but feels the Board needs to comply with any rules adopted. They discussed whether a five minute time limit would be more appropriate than a two or three minute time limit. Commissioner Frederick favored the three minute limit and felt people would better prepare their comments if they knew they had a time limit. The Board concluded public comments should be limited to three minutes, but additional time could be granted by the Chairman if the subject so warranted. It was also agreed that a second public comment section be added following the conclusion of the regular business. These rules will be printed and attached to the sign-in sheet at future meetings. Promotional Exams Commissioner Canady stated Captain Helen Perry-Buse is seeking Board members to assist in the promotional interview process. He stated this is a time-consuming assignment and asked only for those who are willing to make that commitment. Citizen's Police Academy The next CPA begins January 29, 1998. The Academy runs for 10 weeks, three hours per week. He encouraged Board members who have not done so to attend if possible. Commissioners Quinney and Mejorado expressed and interest and asked that applications be forwarded to them. ADJOURNMENT There being no other regular business to discuss, the meeting adjourned into a closed session at 1:55 p.m. hN Office of City Clerk Marilynn Slade City of Lansing City Clerk TO: Vicky Gill, Lansing Police Department Administration FROM: Dixie Gilmore, City Clerk' s Office ( DATE: April 30, 1998 SUBJECT: 1997 and 1998 Police Board Minutes A review of our records indicates the following board minutes are not on file in the Clerk' s Office : December 16, 1997 January 20, 1998 February 17, 1998 March 17, 1998 April 21, 1998 The last board minutes placed on file with our office were for the meeting of November 18, 1997 . Would you please either provide the missing minutes or advise us of their status? Thank you for your cooperation in bringing this file up to date. /dlg Ninth Floor, City Hall, 124 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48933-1695 • 517-483-4131 • 517-377-0068 FAX RECYC ED PAPER BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES November 18, 1997 Members Present: Others Present: 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 Members of the Public Present Commissioner Derrick Quinney Jim Person, (former commissioner) Commissioner Armida Valdez Carol Wood, 1018 W. Lapeer Commissioner Willard Walker Virginia Bozek, 419 Clarendon Don Dawson, Police Captain Theodore Randall, 2001 Devonshire Kristina Dules, 220 W. Saginaw Lloyd Teets, 116 E. Elm St. Larry Broughton, 5001 Southwick Elizabeth Bonello, Police Officer PRESENTATION Commissioner Canady presented Commissioner Person with a resolution from the Board for his service over the past four years. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:33 p.m. after a quorum was established. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of October 21, 1997, and minutes from the Closed Session of October 21, 1997, were reviewed and approved as presented. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 18, 1997 Page 2 UNFINISHED BUSINESS Detention Recommendations/Status Report This report will now be presented on a quarterly basis by Lt. Magnus. The monthly restraint report was presented and placed on file. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. PUBLIC COMMENTS Carol Wood She knows the Board has approved a new complaint procedure and work continues on the complaint brochure. She feels the Board should disseminate as much information as possible to the public. She suggested the Board utilize Channel 12, the government channel to get the word out. The media holds the perception nothing is being done. She continues to dispel rumors and urged the dissemination of information to the public. Commissioner Canady stated the Board is now reviewing all complaints with Internal Affairs. When the brochure is completed, the Board has been asked to make a presentation to the City Council. Ms. Wood asked that when the Board reaches that point, she be notified as she can assist with getting information published in the Lansing State Journal in Cheryl Risner's column. She will also help distribute any information via the Neighborhood Council. Virginia Bozek Submitted a letter to the Board asking for a written response on why the Board will not investigate her complaint. Commissioner Canady stated the Board would respond to her request. Mr. McComb was asked to draft a letter from the Board. Theodore Randall Submitted a copy of his statement regarding a excessive force complaint against an officer of the Police Department. He stated he is charging the officer with brutality and would appreciate whatever this Board can do to help expedite the investigation. He wanted to ensure something just is done. Commissioner Canady accepted the complaint and asked Mr. Randall to put his full name, address and telephone number on the complaint. Lloyd Teets Expressed his concern about campaign literature which was disseminated shortly before the election. He stated he is investigating the incident and thus far has learned that Lieutenant Chris Magnus headed up the organization that opposed Proposal One. Mr. Teets stated this is a serious issue. He referred to a campaign flyer which contained pictures of himself, Ellen Beal and Reverend Stone and a slogan, "we can't afford to let these people run our police Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 18, 1997 Page 3 department. He stated he worked closely with Reverend Stone to create a body which would have been independent of the police department to investigate citizen's complaints. He stated if people in charge of this Board are part of LPD and opposed to the CRB, then that in and of itself is a form of police misconduct. Commissioner Canady admitted he had not seen the publication and assured Mr. Teets this Board had nothing to do with it. Commissioner Farhat- Reed stated Citizens Against Proposal One did have anything to do with the printing/distribution of that publication. She stated Lieutenant Magnus did get that PAC going, but he had nothing to do with that flyer. Larry Broughton Stated he was curious to see what this Board does. He questioned whether or not this Board would be taking all police complaints. He asked for a three-minute overview of the Board's role in complaints. Commissioner Canady explained complaints are now received by the Mayor's Office, the Human Relations Department, the Police Department or the Police Board. A new step in the process is that the Police Board is reviewing complaints which are investigated by the Police Department. Commissioner Maxsam explained this is a temporary step until the we receive funding for the Chief Investigator's position. Mr. Broughton concluded there is a plan, but it is not yet in place. Commissioners concurred. Mr. Broughton questioned whether or not he could have a copy of the Board's new Complaint Procedure. Ms. Gill will mail him a copy. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No one present representing FOP. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD received during the month of October 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 October 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Maxsam requested further details on three cases: IA-97-140, IA-97-120& IA-97- 136. Commissioner Walker also wanted to receive more information on case number IA-97- 136. Commissioner Farhat-Reed wanted to receive more information on IA-97-143. It was noted these are confidential cases which cannot be discussed in public. A motion was made, properly seconded, and commissioners voted unanimously to enter into a closed session at the end of this business meeting to discuss the internal affairs cases. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 18, 1997 Page 4 DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS October 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of October 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board This report was not submitted in time for the packets. Tabled until the next meeting. Communications Department Report This report was not submitted. Chief Teszlewicz stated there was a computer malfunction on November 2, 1997, which hindered the assembly of this report. Tabled until the next meeting. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed stated she had met with Captain Don Dawson and Jim DeLine of the Budget Office. She has received a calendar of events and will be attending as many of those meetings as possible. Final recommendations will be presented at the annual budget meeting on Tuesday, December 16. It was noted that meeting will occur at 11:30 a.m. in the Second Floor Classroom. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter wants to hear more from those people who are satisfied with their police service. He feels there are many more people who are satisfied with the police service in comparison to those who are complaining about it. Human Resources Committee Board Powers: Commissioner Walker suggested this item be removed from the agenda. Board members concurred. Item to be deleted from agenda. Drug Testing: Commissioner Walker stated he would like to keep this item on the agenda as there are plans to further discuss this proposal once the complaint brochure has been finalized. Item to remain on agenda. Minority Hiring: Commissioner Walker had no report. Item to remain on agenda. Incentives Committee Commissioner Valdez stated she feels all officers are doing a good job! She stated her youngest son will be entering the police academy in March of 1998. She stated this Board wants to work with the community to make things better. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 18, 1997 Page 5 Complaint Committee Brochure: Commissioner Frederick stated the committee needed to regroup since the ballot issue did not prevail. She asked everyone to review the information for the proposed complaint brochure. She stated she would like to have everyone's comments by the end of November so another sub-committee meeting can be called to discuss recommendations. She is hopeful the brochure can be finalized soon. Sub-Committee to review discipline: Commissioner Frederick stated she and Commissioner Canady met with the Internal Affairs officer on Monday, November 17, 1997, to review 12 Internal Affairs complaints. At this point, there has been no discussion of this review. It was concluded by this Board via a unanimous vote to enter into a closed session tonight following the conclusion of this meeting. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady Stated he attended the graduation ceremonies of the Police Academy. He was pleased with the turnout. He was impressed with the new cadets he had met. He stated there were 35 people in the graduating class, eight of which will be working for the City of Lansing. Announced there would be two public forums to discuss the selection of a new Chief of Police. He stated one will be held at Everett High School tonight at 7:00 p.m. and invited everyone to attend. Commissioner Walker No additional comments. Commissioner Porter No additional comments. Commissioner Valdez Commissioner Valdez stated she was here to serve the public. She is willing to work with everyone. Commissioner Frederick No additional comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes November 18, 1997 Page 6 Commissioner Farhat-Reed Invited everyone to her Christmas Party and distributed flyers. She thanked everyone who helped with defeating Proposal One. Commissioner Maxsam No additional comments. Commissioner Quinney Stated he spent last Friday in orientation at the police department. He found the experience very educational and is looking forward to becoming more involved. Commissioner Canady suggested he sign up for the Citizen's Police Academy. Officer Bonello stated the next one begins January 29. She stated it meets on Thursday nights for three hours per night. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Teszlewicz stated the next meeting with the NAACP will be on Sunday, February 15, 1997, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. Topics of discussion will be the new Complaint Procedure, the 911 Center, and Officer Discipline. He encouraged everyone to attend. He also announced that Monsignor Murray has been promoted to Bishop and will be going to the Kalamazoo Diocese. Commissioner Farhat-Reed suggested the Board send Father Murray a Board Resolution thanking him for his service and congratulating him on his promotion. Everyone concurred. He asked for commissioner volunteers to sit on Oral Boards for detective, sergeant, and lieutenant promotions. He stated this will be a commitment for eight hours per day for five days. Commissioners Frederick, Walker, Farhat-Reed and Valdez volunteered. Each volunteer was asked to contact Captain Helen Perry-Buse for their assignments. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Canady welcomed Commissioner Quinney aboard and assigned him to the Complaint Sub-Committee. He will be joining Commissioner Frederick, Maxsam, Valdez and Canady. ADJOURNMENT There being no other regular business to discuss, the meeting adjourned into a closed session at 6:32 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - a October 21, 1997 " i Y CLERK Members Present: Others Present: 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 Members of the Public Present Commissioner Derrick Quinney Carol Wood, 1018 W. Lapeer Commissioner Armida Valdez Connie &Dick Schneider, 3106 Boston Commissioner Willard Walker Heather Calera, 3433 Penrose Dr. Lloyd Teets, 116 E. Elm St. Marilyn Alspaugh, 3513 Glenbrook CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. Commissioner Canady introduced Commissioner Derrick Quinney and welcomed him to the Board. Commissioner Quinney is replacing Commissioner Jim Person. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of September 16, 1997, and minutes from the Complaint Sub- Committee Meeting of September 22, 1997, were reviewed and approved as presented. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Detention Recommendations/Status Report This report will now be presented on a quarterly basis by Lt. Magnus. Chief Teszlewicz stated the press conference, highlighting jail renovations and implementation of this Board's recommendations, was held in September. The press conference was well attended and detention personnel did a great job in presenting the changes. Commissioners agreed it was an extremely well-done presentation and feedback has been positive. Chief Teszlewicz stated the new video equipment should be in soon. Commissioner Walker confirmed that it would be video with audio. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 2 Annual Community-Police Relations Meeting Commissioner Canady stated he has attended three meetings with the Mayor's Police-Community Relations Advisory Board and the Department of Human Relations and Community Services' Director regarding next year's conference. It was noted Reverend Stone has been included in these discussions. Their goal is to establish a date, time, place, speakers, a chairperson for the committee, and selection of a moderator. He is hopeful some of these decision will have been made by their upcoming meeting on Thursday. PUBLIC COMMENTS Connie Schneider Ms. Schneider stated her purpose for attending this meeting was to gather information regarding what differences, if any, existed between this Board and the proposed Citizen's Review Board. She questioned if this Board held the same powers as the proposed Citizen's Review Board (CRB) and whether or not it would be duplicating duties and responsibilities. Commissioner Canady explained how members are appointed and agreed this would basically be the same process by which CRB members would be appointed, but with a number of differences. During the past year this Board has learned that its not been doing what it is empowered to do. The death of Mr. Swans brought about many areas of concern and this Board has been working diligently to improve their involvement in areas covered by the City's Charter. Ms. Schneider questioned whether or not there was a citizen's complaint procedure in process and questioned the amount of time it takes to resolve a complaint. Commissioner Canady explained a sub- committee of this Board was formed to review the existing complaint procedure, form and brochure. During its last meeting, the Board passed a new complaint procedure. At this time all of the aspects of that new policy have not been implemented because we are awaiting City Council funding of a Chief Investigator's position. In the interim, the sub-committee is reviewing complaints which have been received and investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit. Additionally, individual commissioners have extended themselves to the public to take complaints. Commissioner Frederick explained in terms of time, the Board had to sit through many meetings with the Mayor's staff, City Council members, union representatives, March For Justice representatives, and others to develop the new procedure. Commissioner Maxsam explained the changes were necessary because the previous Board allowed the department to change to the community policing concept, but the Board did not change their involvement in the complaint process. March For Justice has acted as a catalyst in this regard. Mr. Teets interrupted and explained the new CRB would take away this Board's power to review and investigate complaints. He further explained to Ms. Schneider that the City Council has not acted on the Board's proposed complaint procedure. He stated the City Council is withholding any action until after the election because if the CRB passes, it then becomes a moot point. Commissioner Canady assured Ms. Schneider this Board is not waiting until the election, they Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 3 are proceeding with the portions of the new policy which can be implemented. Ms. Schneider questioned why the Chief of Police would sit on this Board. Commissioner Maxsam stated he is here for the Board's benefit. He has no authority and no vote on this Board. He, Mr. McComb and Ms. Gill are here for information purposes and serve as resources to this Board. Ms. Schneider questioned whether or not this Board has the power to recommend any disciplinary action for police officers. Chief Teszlewicz stated according to the current union contract, discipline can only be enacted by the Chief of Police. When a complaint is sustained it is returned to the employee's supervisor, usually a sergeant who makes a disciplinary recommendation. The sergeant forwards it to the Lieutenant who either concurs or makes another recommendation. It is then forwarded to the Captain who either concurs or makes another recommendation. The Captain forwards the recommendation to the Assistant Chief of Police for enactment of the discipline. Commissioner Maxsam stated this Board does not impose discipline but this is an area where he feels this Board should exert its authority as given by the City's Charter. This authority is however, limited by current contracts and Michigan law and he respects those limitations. He is hopeful that during upcoming contract negotiations, the Board will be given more authority in this area. Commissioner Maxsam feels the people behind the proposed CRB is misinforming the public in this area because they will not be allowed to violate existing contracts or state law either. He is with the belief current contracts supersede any charter amendment. Chief Teszlewicz stated if the CRB passes, the union will file an injunction which will tie the process up in court and the city will spend a lot of money defending their position in court. Commissioner Maxsam stated if this happens, this Board will no longer have any authority to review discipline. Commissioner Canady felt this issue should be resolved at the time of contract negotiations. Carol Wood Prefaced her statements with,"they have nothing to do with the new Board member." Her first point is that she would like to see a procedure in place when a Board member's term expires and that member is being replaced that member be notified. She is appalled that Commissioner Person learned of his replacement while watching a broadcast of the City Council meeting. Her second point is that she has defended this Board as being representative of Lansing citizens, but when Board members are appointed contingent upon what organization they represent, this Board moves from being a citizen's representative to an organization's representative (i.e. UAW). Commissioner Canady responded that he too was very dissatisfied with the way in which Commissioner Person was replaced. He has expressed his concerns to the Mayor about Commissioner Person not being notified as well as him not being notified as chairman of this Board. He stated as chairman of this Board he does not have any influence over who is appointed as a member of this Board. Other commissioners expressed their shock about the way this situation was handled. Commissioner Quinney stated he is a life-long Lansing resident and just happens to be a union representative. He is unclear if the Melling situation prompted his Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 4 appointment to this Board, but assured everyone that his position is the same as everyone else's here - a representative of the citizens of Lansing. Board members agreed that appointments should not made contingent upon what organization a person belongs. Commissioner Canady conclude this Board has quite a mixture of personalities and felt members were responsible to the citizens of Lansing. Lloyd Teets Mr. Teets felt inclined to respond to Ms. Schneider's questions about the cost of the CRB. He stated it will cost whatever the City Council will appropriate. Commissioner Frederick stated the CRB will not get any funding from City Council until they submit a budget. Mr. Teets stated a budget should be established by whoever is appointed to that Board. He is unclear at this point who that will be. He explained this Board does not receive any compensation for its service and pointed out the proposed CRB will cost Lansing residents between $200,000 - $500,000 to cover their request for office space, equipment, secretarial and investigative staffing. This Board utilizes the resources which are currently available.Commissioner Canady questioned members of Mr. Teet's organization who were soliciting funds at the last City Council meeting. Commissioner Canady questioned why so many people who do not live within the city have so much to say at City Council meetings. Mr. Teets stated his not responsible for what other members of his organization say or do. Commissioner Maxsam questioned the issue of liability insurance for the City. Commissioner Maxsam stated considerable research was done by this Board and additional information was disseminated at the Public Safety Committee. He pointed out that 85% of CRB's are advisory only with no authority to act. This Board in its present form has Charter powers and one of the strongest citizen review boards in the country. He questioned why we would chose to dilute the powers of this Board. Ms. Wood noted other cities with CRB's did not have a Board of Police Commissioners in place prior to creating their CRB. Commissioner Canady is appalled to hear that a young police officer was shot four times this week and not one of the opposition has not had one nice word to say about this fine young officer. He questions if this is their attitude now, what will it be like after if their proposal is passed? FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative from the FOP was present for the meeting. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 5 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD received during the month of September 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 September 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Walker questioned #97129 whether it was the individual being arrested or the business owner who complained. Mr. McComb stated the owner was the complainant. someone's convenience. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS September 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of September 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. There was some discussion regarding the decrease in the number of police officer vacancies. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for September 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for September 1997. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Canady stated with the expiration of Commissioner Jim Person's position, a new chair for this committee would have to be selected. Awards & Citations Committee The Awards & Citations ceremony was held last month and was a hugh success. Thanks to all who participated. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 6 Human Resources Committee Board Powers: Commissioner Walker questioned whether or not board powers needed to remain on the agenda or not. He felt that a number of concerns regarding this board's powers have been resolved over the past year. After discussion, it was decided to leave this topic on the agenda as the results of the upcoming election will present new issues. Drug Testing: Commissioner Walker and Commissioner Maxsam stated they would still like to proceed in this area, but this topic has been shoved back due to the Board's work on the complaint procedure. Leave item on agenda. Minority Hiring: Commissioner Walker stated he has met with Captain Helen Perry-Buse. Projected percentages have been met as this project is about a year old. He recognizes there are a number of younger officers on the street striving to be good officers. He also realizes the "community policing concept" was not view by the older officers as a good idea, but the younger officers love community policing. This is good for our community. Also during their meeting they discussed data which will be presented to the selection committee. He will try to obtain that data to share with this Board. Incentives Committee Commissioner Valdez had no report. Complaint Committee Brochure: Commissioner Frederick stated she has drafted a complaint form and brochure. She has disseminated that preliminary information to board members, the administrative staff of the police department, the unions, and the attorneys. She is still awaiting feedback from those folks. The Board agreed work on this project should be suspended until the election. Letter to concerned Citizens: Commissioner Frederick stated there were several citizens who attended the Police-Community Forum in May who had been asked to be kept updated on the complaint procedure. Recently as a follow-up to their request she learned they had not been kept updated as promised. Those citizens were mailed a copy of the Board's new complaint procedure and will be mailed a copy of the new form and brochure when completed. Memorandum to Mayor Hollister: Chief Teszlewicz explained the Board's new complaint procedure was forwarded to the Mayor for presentation of the Chief Investigator's position for funding at City Council. There are parts of the policy which cannot be implemented until Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 7 that position has been funded. A copy of that memorandum is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Sub-Committee to review discipline: Commissioner Frederick stated there were some legal issues that needed to be addressed prior to this sub-committee being allowed to review internal affair records. It was concluded the two Board members who had received the confidentiality training could review the internal affairs records, but could not discuss their findings. There were only three complaints which were reviewed with an employee of the Internal Affairs Office, but at this point there has been no discussion. It was concluded by this Board via a unanimous vote to enter into a closed session tonight following the conclusion of this meeting to discuss the findings of that review. Commissioner Frederick then questioned whether or not this Board would agree to allow the sub-committee to enter into a closed session following their monthly internal affairs review so that discussion could occur and a summary report written for presentation at the regular Board meeting. Mr. McComb stated the law was clear in this area. It states the Board may only go into closed session for this purpose when during a regular meeting 2/3 of the appointed membership (5 members) vote to do so. This must be done on a meeting-by-meeting basis. It was decided that a summary report describing the subcommittee's findings would be a month behind in which the complaint was reviewed. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady Expressed his dismay about the shooting of Officer Norm Armstrong. Commissioner Canady visited Officer Armstrong's family at the hospital and extended the courtesies of this Board to them. He will continue to stop by each day to show this Board's support of the injured officer. Chief Teszlewicz explained no visitors were being allowed at the request of the family and an officer was stationed at the hospital to assist the family. Commissioner Canady thanked Chief Teszlewicz for being so available to commissioners. He feels the Board receives outstanding support from the Chief, Mr. McComb and Ms. Gill. Commissioner Walker Questioned whether or not the City Council had received the findings of their investigation of the Melling incident. Commissioner Canady stated he has not received a report. Chief Teszlewicz stated he too has not received a report, but did hear on the news today that it was reasonable for the police to have used gas. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 8 Stated he was involved with a little league football program. Recently a child was hit with a ball and 911 was called. Medical aid arrived quickly within a minute of being called. But he also noticed that the area officer also responded. He feels this is good for the community to see officers responding to those types of calls. Service has been tremendous! Commissioner Porter No Comment. Commissioner Valdez Apologized for her recent absences. She stated she is caring for four grandchildren, has a full- time job, and has been ill. She feels her situation as improved as should her attendance. She questioned when her term expired and questioned whether or not she would be reappointed to another term. She stated she would like to continue serving as a police commissioner. Commissioner Canady stated the Board would like to have her continue, but has no input regarding appointments and/or reappointments. He suggested she call prior to any future absences. Commissioner Frederick Welcomed Commissioner Quinney to the Board and recognized his strength as an asset. She too is outraged by the shooting of Officer Norm Armstrong and it bothers her that we are not hearing equal outrage from the community. Additionally, she visited the detention area and is very impressed with the improvements and accomplishments. She feel the amount of work that has gone into this project is very visible. Commissioner Farhat-Reed Commended the Call Box, but felt there was one omission from the awards ceremony article, the award of Monsignor Murray. She is cognizant there were probably space issues, but feels that should be included in the next issue. She sent Officer Norm Armstrong a card on the Board's behalf. She is pleased to have Commissioner Quinney as a new Board member. He is her neighbor. She stated his 12-year-old son won the J. C. Penney Golden Rule Award last year and remembered how honored Commissioner Quinney was. She welcomed him aboard. Commissioner Maxsam No comment. Commissioner Quinney Stated he is proud to have been appointed, proud to be a UAW member, and prouder even still to be a life-long resident of Lansing. He will represent everyone fairly and feels all people should be treated with dignity and respect. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes October 21, 1997 Page 9 ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS The NAACP meeting with LPD was well-attended. The next combined meeting is scheduled for February 1, 1998, and topics include the complaint procedure, officer discipline and the 911 Center. Chief Teszlewicz stated he and his wife attended the Melling Fund Raiser on Saturday evening. He stated he has spoken with Reverend Stone this morning offering him an opportunity to put an article in the Call Box. He stated he has received some heat from City Council members regarding the Call Box and a complaint has been filed. He stated city attorneys have reviewed the publication and found its contents to have been legal as they are not telling people how to vote. Officer Armstrong was shot early Sunday morning. He has spent considerable time with Norm and his family. There has been an outpouring of telephone calls from citizens, off-duty officers wanting to donate their time to investigate the case, as well as from other law enforcement agencies wanting to help in any regard. He wanted to thank Attorney Hugh Clark for his role in surrendering the wanted subject. Regarding the East Grand River homicide, a 16-year-old kid has been picked up for questioning. We are doing everything possible to solve this case. OTHER BUSINESS Letter from Commissioner Jim Person Commissioner Person's letter is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Canady stated he has spoken with Commissioner Person and welcomed him to attend any of the Board meetings. He also stated there may be some meetings when he will receive a personal invitation to attend a Board meeting. Appointment of a new Vice-Chair Commissioner Willard Walker was nominated, supported, and unanimously approved. He agreed to serve as the new Vice-Chair. Appointment of a new Chair for the Budget Subcommittee Commissioner Farhat-Reed was nominated, supported, and unanimously approved. She agreed to serve as the new Chair for the Budget Subcommittee. ADJOURNMENT There being no other regular business to discuss, the meeting adjourned into a closed session at7:15p.m. i BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMPLAINT PROCEDURES MEETING MINUTES September 22, 1997 G�tR� Board Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Sub-Committee Chair Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner James Person, Vice-Chairman Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner David Maxsam Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Absent: Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Armida Valdez Lieutenant Tom Munshaw, Internal Affairs Sgt. Clarence Bisson, Internal Affairs CALL TO ORDER Sub-Committee Chair, Commissioner Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Review of Complaint Form Commissioners discussed the development of a complaint/ comment form for police actions and a brochure for distribution to members of the public. A "skeleton" form has been drafted by the City Human Relations Department. Other existing forms and brochures can be found in the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, in Meridian Township and internally within the LPD Internal Affairs Unit. It was decide to review existing forms / brochures before "reinventing the wheel." Specific items were discussed which Commissioners felt should be included in the LPD materials including date of birth of the complainant and / or aggrieved party, relationship between complainant and aggrieved party if they are not the same person, a listing or summary of LPD standards of conduct, a statement of the Department's mission, and an invitation to submit positive comments about interaction with members of the Department. Capt. Teszlewicz commented on the necessity to resolve the differences between the LPD standards of conduct issued to LPD personnel and those on the draft by Human Relations. Cosmetically, it was suggested to include a graphic of the LPD police badge on the cover of the brochure. It was generally agreed that the color of the brochure was not an issue. Discussion of Process by which the Board will review complaints After a discussion of the motion previously passed by the Board formulating the sub-committee's review of complaints referred to the Internal Affairs Unit, it was decided that sub-committee members will be sent two-line summaries of complaints closed during the prior month in a mailing to take place as soon as possible after the first of each month. The sub-committee chair Board of Police Commissioners Sub-Committee on Complaint Procedure Meeting Minutes September 22, 1997 Page 2 will then contact members to establish a list of those complaints members wish further information on. A meeting of the sub-committee and representatives of the Internal Affairs Unit will then be called before the regular monthly Board meeting. This meeting would be exempt from the Open Meetings Act as confidential records will be reviewed. No records would be photocopied or distributed. Members of the sub-committee would be reviewing records for informational purposes only. Based upon their review of specific complaints, they may wish to adopt new policies, but would not deliberate on the specific incidents. Recommendations, Conclusions, Follow-Up It was recommended that the review of IA cases begin with the September IA report. Implementation of the Complaint Procedure as recommended by the Board will not be take place at this time pending discussion with FOP unions and hiring of needed staff. Commissioner Frederick will take the responsibility of formulating drafts of a complaint brochure and complaint form. OTHER BUSINESS No other business was brought before the sub-committee. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMPLAINT PROCEDURES MEETING MINUTES ; September 22, 1997 l_t':i`' i�' C� C;i i CLER�� Board Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Sub-Committee Chair Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner James Person, Vice-Chairman Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner David Maxsam Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Absent: Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Armida Valdez Lieutenant Tom Munshaw, Internal Affairs Sgt. Clarence Bisson, Internal Affairs CALL TO ORDER Sub-Committee Chair, Commissioner Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:08 p.m. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Review of Complaint Form Commissioners discussed the development of a complaint / comment form for police actions and a brochure for distribution to members of the public. A "skeleton" form has been drafted by the City Human Relations Department. Other existing forms and brochures can be found in the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, in Meridian Township and internally within the LPD Internal Affairs Unit. It was decide to review existing forms / brochures before "reinventing the wheel." Specific items were discussed which Commissioners felt should be included in the LPD materials including date of birth of the complainant and / or aggrieved party, relationship between complainant and aggrieved party if they are not the same person, a listing or summary of LPD standards of conduct, a statement of the Department's mission, and an invitation to submit positive comments about interaction with members of the Department. Capt. Teszlewicz commented on the necessity to resolve the differences between the LPD standards of conduct issued to LPD personnel and those on the draft by Human Relations. Cosmetically, it was suggested to include a graphic of the LPD police badge on the cover of the brochure. It was generally agreed that the color of the brochure was not an issue. Discussion of Process by which the Board will review complaints After a discussion of the motion previously passed by the Board formulating the sub-committee's review of complaints referred to the Internal Affairs Unit, it was decided that sub-committee members will be sent two-line summaries of complaints closed during the prior month in a mailing Board of Police Commissioners Sub-Committee on Complaint Procedure Meeting Minutes September 22, 1997 Page 2 to take place as soon as possible after the first of each month. The sub-committee chair will then contact members to establish a list of those complaints members wish further information on. A meeting of the sub-committee and representatives of the Internal Affairs Unit will then be called before the regular monthly Board meeting. This meeting would be exempt from the Open Meetings Act as confidential records will be reviewed. No records would be photocopied or distributed. Members of the sub-committee would be reviewing records for informational purposes only. Based upon their review of specific complaints, they may wish to adopt new policies, but would not deliberate on the specific incidents. Recommendations, Conclusions, Follow-Up It was recommended that the review of IA cases begin with the September IA report. Implementation of the Complaint Procedure as recommended by the Board will not be take place at this time pending discussion with FOP unions and hiring of needed staff. Commissioner Frederick will take the responsibility of formulating drafts of a complaint brochure and complaint form. OTHER BUSINESS No other business was brought before the sub-committee. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS - MEETING MINUTES September 16, 1997 ?,'ii l�,'i' �' CI��Y CL`F�t Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner James Person, Vice-Chairman Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner David Maxsam Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Present Officer Bruce Holliday, FOP Absent: Liza Estlund-Olson, Mayor's Office Commissioner Armida Valdez (A) Mr. Lewis Bozek Commissioner Willard Walker (E) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. Commission Maxsam stated he had been marked absent from a meeting on July 10, 1997, and the training session on August 14, 1997. He stated he has returned to work and was unable to attend those meetings. He asked to be excused from those two meetings. Commissioner Canady concurred. Ms. Gill was asked to change the attendance roster to reflect excused absences for those two dates. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meetings of August 19, 1997, and minutes from the Complaint Sub- Committee Meeting of September 2, 1997, were reviewed and approved as presented. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Detention Recommendations/Status Report Chief Teszlewicz reported the Ways and Means Committee was presented the department's request for additional funding for the new video system as well as funds to complete jail renovations. Plans are underway to have a press conference highlighting all of the changes made in the detention area so the public will be better informed. He encouraged all Board members to attend. He is hopeful that will occur sometime in October. Board members and City Council members will be notified when the arrangements have been made. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 16, 1997 October Call Box Article Lieutenant Chris Magnus will be writing an article for the October issue of the Call Box outlining jail renovations and other improvements. The Board acknowledged Lieutenant Magnus for his efforts in making the detention project successful. Annual Community-Police Relations Meeting Commissioner Canady stated he had received a letter from the Mayor's Human Relations and Community Relations Advisory Board requesting a joint meeting with the Board of Police Commissioners to share thoughts on how to plan for next year's event. A joint meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, October 2, 1997, at 6:00 p.m.. The meeting will most probably take place on the tenth floor of City Hall. Confirmation of the location and agenda has not yet been finalized. Each member will receive a notice from Ms. Carol Wood of the Human Relations and Community Services Department. Ms. Wood will also be responsible for posting public notices and taking minutes. Lansing State Journal/Point of View Article Commissioner Deb Fredrick's letter was published in the Lansing State Journal and a copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The letter will also be published in the October edition of the Call Box. Meeting with editorial staff of the Lansing State Journal Chief Teszlewicz reported he met with the Editorial Board of the Lansing State Journal on September 11, 1997. He reported the meeting went well and he is hopeful the outcome will result in a better working relationship with them. It was noted this item can be removed from the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTS Mr. Bozek questioned whether or not the article written by Commissioner Frederick was approved by the Chief of Police and where her statistics regarding complaints came from. She stated her article was not approved by the Chief of Police and the statistics were from a report which was submitted to the Board at a regular meeting earlier in the year. He questioned whether or not she had received help in writing the article. Commissioner Frederick stated she wrote the letter and it was reviewed and edited by other Board members when it was submitted at the August Board meeting. He then questioned the Board's role in the complaint process; he understood that complaints could be received by any number of people/departments. Mr. Bozek was told the Police Department investigates complaints and a summary report is reviewed by the Board. Board Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 16, 1997 members responded they were also responsible for monitoring complaints. Mr. Bozek questioned the options available for citizens who were not satisfied with the outcome of the Department's investigation and whether or not they could bring their complaints to this Board. Board members agreed this was an option. Commissioner Maxsam explained that for whatever reason citizens do not usually bring their complaints to this Board and that is why the Board is working to revise the complaint process. Mr. Bozek acknowledged that operationally, the Board could not investigate every case due to the lack of staffing. He questioned who investigated the Melling incident. Commissioner Canady stated the Board spent over 30 hours reviewing and investigating the Melling incident in many open meetings during the months of June and July. He stated the Board also investigated the death of Mr. Swans in open meetings earlier this year. It was during that investigation the group, March For Justice, brought forth many issues, several which have since been implemented. He stated the Board welcomes input from any group or individual. Mr. Bozek questioned whether or not Commissioner Maxsam had been appointed to this Board by City Council member Tony Benavides. Commissioner Maxsam stated Councilmember Benavides wanted a representative from his ward and submitted his (Commissioner Maxsam's) name to the Mayor for consideration. The Mayor's recommendation was then confirmed by the City Council. Commissioner Maxsam went on to say there was a system of checks and balances in place and he felt this type of checks and balances was the missing element in the March For Justice's proposals for a citizen's review board. There was some discussion regarding whether or not Mr. Bozek was a member of the March For Justice and Mr. Bozek assured the Board that he was not a member or affiliated in any way with the March For Justice. Mr. Bozek then told the Board he was dissatisfied with the Department's investigation of his son's death. Commissioner Maxsam was with the impression that investigation had been conducted by the Ingham County Sheriff's Department since it occurred within their jurisdiction. Mr. Bozek stated the case had been investigated by LPD and he had in his possession copies of the reports. Mr. McComb stated Mr. Bozek, his wife and his daughter submitted a two-page FOIA request shortly after our department's investigation began. He stated the department responded to their questions and request for reports a few months ago. Mr. Bozek stated he had asked to meet with Chief Boles but was told that was not possible because of the ongoing investigation. Mr. McComb stated following the conclusion of the department's investigation, a meeting was scheduled with the Bozeks and their daughter with Chief Boles. When that meeting was canceled by the Bozek's a subsequent meeting was scheduled, but it was also canceled by the Bozeks. Mr. Bozek explained he did not want to meet with Chief Boles that he wanted to meet with the people conducting the investigation. He stated most of the investigation was conducted by the Ingham County Sheriff's Department but Sheriff Wrigglesworth refused to meet with Mr. Bozek and his family. He stated both departments are indicating it is the Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 16, 1997 other's responsibility and he is unclear exactly who has jurisdiction over this case. He stated his questions are not of a legal nature; he and his family just want answers to some things that are bothering them. In particular, he is still having difficulty understanding why the sheriff's office told his daughter not to call the police. Commissioner Porter questioned whether or not he had discussed the case with the Ingham County Prosecutor. Mr. Bozek stated he has never met with anyone from the Prosecutor's Office. Mr. Bozek stated initially there was one meeting with the sheriff, then Captain Teszlewicz and others but no one at that meeting was able to answer his questions. He just wants to know exactly what happened. He wants to know why the sheriff's department instructed Wanda Bozek not to speak with he and his wife. He wants to know why for two and a half hours he was not allowed to speak with his son and was only told not to leave his vehicle. Commissioner Canady asked Mr. Bozek what he wanted this Board to do for him. Mr. Bozek stated he wanted the Board to conduct a hearing into his son's death, quite similar to the one just completed regarding the Melling incident. Commissioner Canady explained to Mr. Bozek he was unclear if the Board had the authority to investigate an incident which occurred within the county's jurisdiction. Commissioner Frederick explained Mr. Swans' death and the Melling incident clearly occurred with the City of Lansing's jurisdiction. She stated Mr. Bozek's situation was less clear regarding jurisdiction. Mr. Bozek questioned whether or not this Board had any jurisdiction over the actions of Lansing police officers. Mr. Bozek felt he was lied to by officers on the scene and is troubled that no one is able to answer his questions. Commissioner Canady suggested the Board could meet to determine what if anything this Board could do for him and requested that Mr. Bozek withhold questions the Board could not answer regarding specific details of the incident. Unsatisfied with this answer, Mr. Bozek withdrew his request for the Board to investigate this incident. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Officer Bruce Holliday was present for the FOP, but did not have anything to say. He stated he was present only as an observer. Board members thanked him for attending. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD received during the month of August 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 August 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 16, 1997 DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS August, 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of August, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for August, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for August, 1997. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Canady appointed Commissioner Person as the chair for this subcommittee. Awards & Citations Committee The Awards & Citations ceremony will be held tomorrow night. Commissioner Porter encouraged the Board's attendance. Human Resources Committee This report was tabled due to the absence of Commissioner Walker. Incentives Committee This report was tabled due to the absence of Commissioner Valdez. Complaint Committee Liza Estlund-Olson was present at the request of the Mayor. He wanted to ensure the status of the Board's proposal for the citizen's complaint procedure. Board members were under the impression they had passed their draft at their subcommittee meeting on September 2. It was noted in the minutes from that meeting their proposal would act as "an offer" (minutes of September 2, page 1) open to discussion and compromise with the union. Ms. Estlund-Olson stated the Mayor met with the union and it was unfortunate that no compromise could be reached. She stated the Mayor wanted to know if this Board wanted to withdraw their proposal or submit it as their concrete proposal. A motion was made and properly seconded to make the Board's proposal (as amended in their September 2, 1997, meeting) their final one. The motion was unanimously passed. Commissioner Frederick stated there needed to be funding for the civilian investigator's position if their proposal is to be viable. The Board instructed Ms. Gill Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 16, 1997 to forward a copy of their revised proposal to the Mayor with a recommendation to acquire funding from City Council for the procedure so that we can move forward. Ms. Estlund-Olson questioned how the procedure would be publicized. Chief Teszlewicz stated it will take time to put the procedure into departmental format, publish it, and get it disseminated to all employees before it can be enacted. Commissioner Frederick acknowledged there are some details yet to be resolved but the Board will now move forward to begin reviewing complaints prior to funding approval and finalization of their proposal. Commissioner Frederick also advised everyone there would be a Complaint Subcommittee Meeting on Monday, September 22, 1997, at 6:00 p.m. in the second floor classroom of the downtown police building. She stated the purpose of this meeting will be to discuss the complaint form/brochure and to look at the process by which the Board will begin reviewing complaints. She stated the meeting will last one hour as we cannot be in conflict with the City Council meeting which begins at 7:00 p.m. Ms. Estlund-Olson stated the Mayor appreciated the Board's due diligence in moving forward with this procedure. He appreciates the Board's work on this project and acknowledges the many long hours of their time. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady Officer Elizabeth Bonello is gearing up for another Citizen's Police Academy and has indicated there are still openings. Classes start Thursday and run for ten weeks and will be held at the South Precinct Conference Room. Each class is three hours, beginning at 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Officer Bonello can be reached by calling 272-7487. Commissioner Canady encourage each member, who has not already done so, to consider attending the Citizen's Police Academy. Commissioner Canady stated he has been invited to attend a forum with the March For Justice tomorrow regarding their proposed citizen's review board. He requested permission from Board members to attend and present this Board's thoughts and feelings on their proposal for a citizen's review board. He stated he would only represent the Board on the points as indicated in his handout. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He encouraged Board member's input. Everyone concurred it was appropriate for him to speak on the Board's behalf. Commissioner Person Commissioner Person left the meeting at 6:15 p.m. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 16, 1997 Commissioner Walker Absent. Commissioner Frederick Stated she would be interested in attending the Citizen's Police Academy next April, after completion of her final exams at Cooley Law School. She commended the folks working on the Call Box and stated she like the combined format. Everyone was complimentary of the new newsletter format. Commissioner Porter He encouraged everyone to attend tomorrow night's Awards and Citations Ceremony at the South Precinct at 7:00 p.m. Commissioner Farhat-Reed Distributed petitions the Neighborhood Advisory Board is attempting to have signed for closed campuses at our schools. They feel if students are required to stay on school property, rather than being permitted to leave during the lunch hour, students will be less likely to get into trouble. She has heard some opposition from the teachers. Overall the Neighborhood Advisory Board feels this effort will reduce the number of truants and juvenile crimes in the area. She encouraged Board members to sign and return if they agreed with the concept. Everyone agreed anything that could be done to protect our children during their school hours would be acceptable to them. Commissioner Maxsam Based on research done through the Lansing Police Department and the Michigan State University, Lansing has been found to have one of the strongest citizen's review board in the country. We face dilution of this Board's powers if the citizens of this community attempt to create yet another citizen's review board. Every citizen is faced with the same perception and feels there needs to be some type of accountability. There is no accountability in the MFFs proposal. In Lansing there is citizen input and the Board has the authority to act. There are few citizen's boards in the country that have control over the budget and the selection of the Chief of Police. He feels efforts within the community to the dilute the strength of this Board should be thwarted. Commissioner Valdez Absent. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Chief Teszlewicz presented an announcement from the NAACP inviting the police department to their next meeting. The meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 5, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes September 16, 1997 p.m. at the South Precinct Gym. He invited Board members to attend. Presentations will include an update on jail renovations and policy changes, a restraint chair, recruiting booth, and a neighborhood watch booth. He stated all of the Captains will be there to present a short overview of their divisions and there will be a question and answer session following those presentations. Commissioner Canady thanked Chief Teszlewicz for his efforts in this regard and agreed how important it is to get this type of information to the public. Chief Teszlewicz stated he is initiating a new method of communication with all area business leaders who have access to a fax machine. He stated whenever a news releases are submitted to media they will also be faxed to area business leaders. This is being done in an effort to let our community leaders know what information is actually being presented to the press to compare with what is actually being reported to the public. Commissioner Canady agreed this is a good idea and thanked Chief Teszlewicz for his efforts in this regard. Commissioners are invited to meet new recruits on Tuesday, September 23, 1997, from noon to 1:00 p.m. at the Waste Water Treatment Facility. Commissioner Canady encouraged all Board members to attend. OTHER BUSINESS Assignment of Subcommittee Chairs The only change made tonight was the Commissioner Person would be the new chair for the Budget Committee. Letter from R. David Wilson, FOP attorney The Board received and placed on file a letter from Mr. Wilson indicating any interviews by the City Council or Joe Young and Associates with any FOP Supervisory or Non-Supervisory member should be scheduled through his office. A copy of that letter is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Letters of Support for Chief Teszlewicz The Board received and placed on file three letters indicating support for the permanent appointment of Chief Teszlewicz. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SUBCOMMITTEE ON COMPLAINT PROCEDURES MEETING MINUTES �-rli;�i1iG CITY CLEri{�i September 2, 1997 Board Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner James Person, Vice-Chairman Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Commissioner Deb Frederick, Sub-Committee Chair Commissioner David Maxsam Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Lieutenant Joel Maatman, FOP Carol Wood, Genessee Neigh Assoc Absent: Commissioner Armida Valdez CALL TO ORDER Sub-Committee Chair, Commissioner Frederick called the meeting to order at 5:17 p.m. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Changes to Draft of Complaint Procedure Changes to the Complaint Procedure draft were discussed and approved. They consisted primarily of rewording all references of procedures applying to "Officers" to applying to "LPD Employees." Lt. Maatman was asked for comments of the draft from his perspective as FOP-Supervisor Director. He told the Board that he believes the Union will have reservations on several portions of the Procedure, and will be prepared to discuss them once the document is approved by the Board and presented to the Union for input. He expressed his pleasure at seeing the phraseology inclusive of all LPD employees and not just sworn officers. Commissioner Frederick commented that the Procedure once approved by the Board of Police Commissioners will act as "an offer" which is open for discussion and compromise. Commissioner Canady moved that the newly revised document be accepted as the Board's proposed Complaint Procedure. Commissioner Porter seconded. The motion passed unanimously. A copy of the draft is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Acting Secretary Jim DeLine was directed to forward changes to the Human Relations and Community Services Department for inclusion in the document as stored in the files of their computer. Board of Police Commissioners Sub-Committee on Complaint Procedure Meeting Minutes September 2, 1997 Page 2 OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Canady presented a letter from members of the Human relations and Community Services Advisory Board wishing to meet with members of the Board of Police Commissioners. A copy of that letter is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The Board agreed to discuss it at a later date. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:07 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS I. SSUBCOMMITTEE ON COMPLAINT PROCEDURES MEETING MINUTES CiTY CLERK September 2, 1997 Board Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner James Person, Vice-Chairman Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Commissioner Deb Frederick, Sub-Committee Chair Commissioner David Maxsam Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Lieutenant Joel Maatman, FOP Carol Wood, Genessee Neigh Assoc Absent: Commissioner Armida Valdez CALL TO ORDER Sub-Committee Chair, Commissioner Frederick called the meeting to order at 5:17 p.m. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Changes to Draft of Complaint Procedure Changes to the Complaint Procedure draft were discussed and approved. They consisted primarily of rewording all references of procedures applying to "Officers" to applying to "LPD Employees." Lt. Maatman was asked for comments of the draft from his perspective as FOP-Supervisor Director. He told the Board that he believes the Union will have reservations on several portions of the Procedure, and will be prepared to discuss them once the document is approved by the Board and presented-to the Union for input. He expressed his pleasure at seeing the phraseology inclusive of all LPD employees and not just sworn officers. Commissioner Frederick commented that the Procedure once approved by the Board of Police Commissioners will act as "an offer" which is open for discussion and compromise. Commissioner Canady moved that the newly revised document be accepted as the Board's proposed Complaint Procedure. Commissioner Porter seconded. The motion passed unanimously. A copy of the draft is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Acting Secretary Jim DeLine was directed to forward changes to the Human Relations and Community Services Department for inclusion in the document as stored in the files of their computer. Board of Police Commissioners Sub-Committee on Complaint Procedure Meeting Minutes September 2, 1997 Page 2 OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Canady presented a letter from members of the Human relations and Community Services Advisory Board wishing to meet with members of the Board of Police Commissioners. A copy of that letter is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The Board agreed to discuss it at a later date. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:07 p.m. S 1 �G CITY OF LANSING HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT 119 North Washington Square 3rd Floor,City Hall Annex Lansing,Michigan 48933 (517)483-4477 (517)483-4479(TDD/Voice) HI August 26, 1997 David C. Hollister, Mayor J m--eTm r, s, Chairperson P�, � Board of Police Commissioners 2801 Montego Dr. Lansing, Michigan 48912 Dear Mr. Persons : The members of the Human Relations and Community Services Advisory Board wish to meet with you and the other members of the Police Commission to discuss a number of issues related to how we as constituent representatives interface with the public. We would like to propose ajoint meeting with the Police Commissioners and the members of the Police and Community Relations Advisory Board. The Community and Police Relations conference this last spring was a timely event which allowed for a beginning of a public forum on community and police relations . We have had several community responses to this initial effort, and we would like to bring several ideas for the next community and police relations forum to you, with suggestions from those community groups . One suggestion is to see this event occur as early in 1998 as possible, thus the need to meet as soon as it can be arranged. As members of two Advisory Boards serving the City of Lansing, we feel it would be very beneficial for us to meet with you together to examine ways we can collaboratively respond to community issues . Please contact me as soon as possible at 485-7705 to discuss possible scheduling for a joint meeting. Sincerely, Reverend Melvin Jones, Chairperson Dr. J n Ja —John Vice Chair Human Relations and Community Services Advisory Board cc: Mayor David C. Hollister Robert Kennon, Chair-Police and Community Relations Board Acting Chief Paul Teszlewicz-Lansing Police Department Arthur Walker, Director Human Relations & Community Services "Equal Opportunity Employer" BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES August 19, 1997 j l,- C17 Y C L Enh Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner James Person, Vice-Chairman Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Lt. Chris Magnus, Central Services Commissioner David Maxsam Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Director Commissioner Grady Porter Commissioner Armida Valdez Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Lieutenant Joel Maatman, FOP Sgt. Ted Rahl, FOP Robert Kennon, Pol/Comm Relations Carol Wood, Genessee Neigh Assoc CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the special meetings of June 19, June 23, and June 26 were approved. Minutes of the special sub-committee meeting of July 10 were approved. Minutes of the regular meeting of July 15 were approved. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Selection Process for a New Chief of Police City of Lansing Personnel Director, Sharon Bommarito, presented a draft of the process and timetable being proposed to the Mayor. The proposal is timed to have the process completed and the name of a final candidate(s) submitted to the Board at its February 1998 meeting. The process in similar to that used in the past for other Department heads appointed by Mayor Hollister including use of a selection committee as well as community forums and employee meetings. Commissioners are asked to submit their input on the draft directly to Director Bommarito before a final version of the document is presented to the Mayor and made available to the public. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 2 Detention Recommendations/Status Report Lt. Chris Magnus noted Commissioner Farhat-Reed's visit earlier in the day to the detention facility and presented an update of detention renovations. He extended an invitation to all Commissioners to visit prior to project completion, at which time an "open house" is expected to be held. He complimented the front line detention staff and also Sgt. Steve Person on their participation and input into the project. • Video arraignment room is done and in operation. Feedback has been good from judges and others who utilize the system. • Restraint is room is nearly finished. Two restraint areas are physically separated by a partition and both are able to be viewed by Detention Officers through a window from their work area. • Second booking station is nearly finished. In the past, juveniles had to be escorted through a common area used by officers for report writing. This situation has been remedied. • Detention Officer work area has been improved with new paint, carpet, blinds and workstations. • Monitor racks are installed. • More storage has been added. Lt. Magnus noted that research on the second half of the project (the video portion), is nearing completion. Dixon Media was hired to put together the Request for Proposals and two bids have been received for the project, both coming in at approximately $200,000. Funding now needs to be established through City Council. He hopes to have council members tour the facility to see, first hand, the progress and to discuss future needs. Lt. Magnus distributed information on the time-lapse VCR system being proposed. The completed video system will utilize 40 cameras in various locations and 17 videocassette recorders. A personal computer with touch-screen commands allows control over which cameras and groups of cameras are recording at any given time. Recordings are in color and with audio. Individual switches located throughout the facility and "panic buttons" worn by detention officers will also be capable of turning on camera banks in related areas. Recordings can only be terminated by supervisor entering "stop codes" into the computer. The VCRs record one frame every 0.2 seconds which Lt. Magnus personally tested and is confident that the process is sufficient to provide a reliable recording of any notable occurrences. Tapes would only need to be changed every 24 hours. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 3 A discussion followed Lt. Magnus' presentation in which Commissioners expressed the importance of making the public aware of detention improvements. It was suggested that the media and Council be invited separate from the open house once the current construction is cleared. Chief Teszlewicz noted that Commissioners would be notified of a press conference in the detention center to be held hopefully, before September 11. He will check the Mayor's schedule. Commissioners may assist by helping to make Council members aware of our progress and of the need for funding for video improvements. Politically, this should be a good project to support. Ms. Wood suggested Council support would be easier attained if we could show citizen support. Chief Teszlewicz volunteered Lt. Magnus to write an article / request for citizen input for the October issue of "The Call Box." Commissioners, the Chief and Sgt. Rahl all agreed that the improvements to the center were very beneficial and that the personnel involved were to be commended. Annual Community-Police Relations Meeting Chief Teszlewicz reported that the Lansing Center is being considered as a possible site for next year's meeting. A discussion on next year's meeting was held which included recommendations to get the public involved in a manner similar to the partnership which organizes the MLK luncheon. (Sgt. Rahl mentioned he would be willing to work on the MLK commission and Commissioner Canady promised to relate this to its members.) The partnership must, at least, include the Mayor's office, the FOP, and the Board of Police Commissioners. It was mentioned that, given their recent success in getting the Citizen's Review Board on the ballot, the March for Justice may be willing to provide input into the organization of next year's meeting. It was suggested that this year's Community - Police Relations meeting site would be suitable for next year's meeting in that it provided intimacy and could accommodate the anticipated larger crowd. Complaint Procedure / Brochure Commissioner Frederick distributed the most recent drafts of a memo to City Council and a "Point of View" article for the Lansing State Journal. A discussion followed on the difficulties involved with a Citizen's Review Board. Commissioner Person distributed an August 19 Lansing State Journal article for the Commissioners' information concerning the ballot question. Concerning the drafts, Commissioner Frederick mentioned the importance of letting the City Council and the community know that the Board does have an opinion on the issue of a citizen's review board, that it acknowledges its responsibility to make sure that there is a review process, and that it is not willing to give that up voluntarily. Commissioner Canady distributed a letter from Mayor Hollister related to a civil investigator position and police complaint process. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 4 A discussion was held regarding Commissioner public statements, including appearances on cable television programs. Commissioner Canady mentioned that individual Commissioners were free to accept speaking invitations but need to be careful that they not speak for the entire Board without previous approval. Commissioner Maxsam agreed and felt that it might help alleviate misconceptions if speaking engagements were accepted. Ms. Wood asked the Commission to clarify their support of a citizen investigator in relation to the role of Internal Affairs. She stressed the importance of making it clear to City Council where the Board stood. Lt. Maatman added that he believed the use of a civilian investigator is in violation of the FOP contract. Paul McComb suggested that a meeting between the Commission, the Mayor and the FOP scheduled for August 28 at 3:00 pm is where discussion of this question is best addressed / resolved. The group was in general agreement and supported the notion that a resolution be found which would avert possible legal action. Commissioner Maxsam added that allowing a citizen review board to impose sanctions on a police officer would be in violation of State law. Chief Teszlewicz suggested that a copy of the Commissions Point of View article be included in the October issue of The Call Box. He also mentioned that the LPD administrative staff has compiled a draft of the complaint procedure which he would distribute later in the meeting. Changes were suggested and incorporated into the drafts. A motion was passed to have figures in the "Point of View" article confirmed by LPD administrative staff and the revised copy .prepared for mailing as soon as possible. A second motion was passed to delay the distribution of the memo to Council pending the August_ 28 meeting with the Mayor which may prompt additional changes. It was agreed that the Point of View article be sent on Police Board of Commissioners letterhead. Commissioner Frederick announced that the Complaint brochure will be "on hold" until after the meeting with the Mayor. Meeting with editorial staff of the Lansing State Journal Chief Teszlewicz reported that his meeting has been set for September 11. Letter of Appreciation to Reverend Clayton The letter was reviewed and approved. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked if it might be appropriate to include Rev. Clayton in the planning of the annual conference. Commissioner Canady replied in the affirmative. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 5 PUBLIC COMMENTS Ms. Wood expressed her appreciation for the new combined LPD newsletter, The Call Box. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sgt. Ted Rahl Sgt. Rahl expressed the FOP Supervisor Union's appreciation for the fair manner in which the Commission conducted its investigation of the Melling incident. It will soon begin assisting in discussions aimed at "tweaking" the LPD reorganization. He expressed his sadness at the retirement of Chief Boles and their appreciation for being included in the upcoming selection process to find a successor. He reported to the Commission that members of his union would not be cooperating with the current Melling investigation conducted by the private firm of Joe Young and Associates as the union considers a second investigation could result in double jeopardy for their members. A discussion followed on the appropriateness of the City Attorney's office assisting the investigating company while, at the same time, representing City employees being interviewed. Sgt. Rahl continued his comments by expressing the union's favorable response to the Mayor's upcoming "open forum" discussions with LPD officers and on the ongoing dialog circles being held among LPD employees. He invited the Commission to consider coordinating a dialog circle for themselves. He reminded the Board that the FOP is interested in addressing the media. Lt. Joel Maatman Lt. Maatman echoed Sgt. Rahl's comments and related a story which he heard on his recent visit to Detroit as an escort to two Ukrainian police cadets. In Detroit, they have found their Citizen's Review Board to be extremely bureaucratic, forcing both minor issues and paramount concerns to take an inordinate amount of time to investigate and reach a decision regarding sanctions. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD received during the month of July 1997. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 6 Complaints against the Department The Board placed on file complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of July, 1997. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS July, 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of July, 1997. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this reporting period. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for this reporting period. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee - A new chair for this committee needs to be found and will be discussed next month. Awards & Citations Committee - Award ceremony is scheduled for September 17. Human Resources Committee - No report. Incentives Committee - No report. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Person - Reminded the Board of the PAL golf outing on September 3. Tickets are still available. He suggested Board members join the CAT auto theft prevention program by placing a sticker on their car. This means that your car may be stopped late at night to check that it is being driven by someone authorized to do so. Commissioner Person has received a letter from the Department of Transportation in appreciation of the Boards "thank-you" letter. They indicated their support of their employees participation in dialog circles. Board of Police Conunissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 7 Commissioner Walker - Commissioner Walker expressed his regret that he was unable to attend Chief Boles' last Board meeting as he was a big supporter of his. Commissioner Frederick - Reiterated Commissioner Walker's comments. She appreciated working with Chief Boles on the Board and in other capacities. Regarding auto thefts, she commented on her disappointment in seeing a number of Lansing citizens leave their cars running unattended. Commissioner Frederick also expressed her appreciation to Officer Joel Cutler who provided a follow-up visit to her home in regard to a stolen bike. He was very professional, observant and thorough. Commissioner Porter - Encouraged the Chief to write a commendation on the contribution of Chief Boles. Commissioner Canady made a motion that a plaque be purchased and engraved for presentation to the former Chief. Motion passed. Commissioner Canady requested that Vicky Gill be empowered to acquire an appropriate gift. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - No comments at this time. Commissioner Maxsam - Complemented Chief Boles on the excellent job he had done while at LPD, and welcomed Sgt. Rahl back to Board meetings. Commissioner Valdez - No comments at this time. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Paul McComb Told the Board that a decision had been made earlier in the day that he would not be participating in coordinating interviews for the Joe Young and Associates investigation. It is his understanding that the scope of the investigation is rather narrow. It is not expected that they will wish to interview many LPD employees. Chief Teszlewicz The Chief invited the Commission to meet new members of the Department and their Field Training Officers on September 23 at 12:00 noon at the City's Wastewater Treatment Plant conference room. He informed the Commission that the organizational chart on the classroom wall has not yet been updated. He informed the Board that the North and South Precinct's newsletters had been combined. He reported favorably on his recent meetings with union leader Glenn Freeman and also with John Legg and Melling employees. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 8 Chief Teszlewicz distributed an LPD complaint procedure draft. He updated the Commission on the Department's traffic enforcement on Clemens Street indicating that the increased enforcement has caused a backlash with some residents who find they are being stopped for their own traffic violations. He informed the Commission of an upcoming Q&A session the Mayor will be having with LPD employees on September 4. He and the Mayor are making an effort to meet one-on-one each week. He mentioned that he is keeping in contact with LSJ reporter, Mark Nixon, and believes that LPD coverage is better. Chief Teszlewicz welcomed the Oldsmobile Centennial celebration to Lansing and informed the Board of the company's intention to reimburse the Department for related sworn overtime. There will be a strong LPD officer presence. He would like to see this became an annual celebration. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Canady reminded the Commission of the following dates: • LPD meeting with the Mayor on August 28 at 3:00 pm • LPD Award Ceremony on September 17 • Commissioners' meeting with new recruits and officers on September 23 Commissioner Canady asked the Chief for clarification on the fingerprinting of property in relation to the case of an attempted stolen vehicle belonging to an acquaintance. Chief Teszlewicz explained how dampness and other residue on items can make the taking of fingerprints useless. He mentioned that the number of automobile larcenies is currently very high and that he anticipates a story on the local television news concerning them. He encouraged all citizens to contact an LPD supervisor whenever they have a question on procedures used by an officer. Commissioners Maxsam and Frederick commented that they were desirous of rescheduling a time to meet with Lt. Munshaw as they missed the original time set up by the disciplinary subcommittee. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m. 1 �) BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES 5; August 19, 1997 F ; nCLERK Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Paul Teszlewicz, Chief of Police Commissioner James Person, Vice-Chairman Jim DeLine, Acting Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Lt. Chris Magnus, Central Services Commissioner David Maxsam Sharon Bommarito,Personnel Director Commissioner Grady Porter Commissioner Armida Valdez Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Willard Walker Lieutenant Joel Maatman, FOP Sgt. Ted Rahl, FOP Robt. Kennon, Pol/Comm Relations Carol Wood, Genessee Neigh Assoc Absent: CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the special meetings of June 19, June 23, and June 26 were approved. Minutes of the special sub-committee meeting of July 10 were approved. Minutes of the regular meeting of July 15 were approved. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Selection Process for a New Chief of Police City of Lansing Personnel Director, Sharon Bommarito, presented a draft of the process and timetable being proposed to the Mayor. The proposal is timed to have the process completed and the name of a final candidate(s) submitted to the Board at its February 1998 meeting. The process in similar to that used in the past for other Department heads appointed by Mayor Hollister including use of a selection committee as well as community forums and employee meetings. Commissioners are asked to submit their input on the draft directly to Director Bommarito before a final version of the document is presented to the Mayor and made available to the public. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 2 Detention Recommendations/Status Report Lt. Chris Magnus noted Commissioner Farhat-Reed's visit earlier in the day to the detention facility and presented an update of detention renovations. He extended an invitation to all Commissioners to visit prior to project completion, at which time an "open house" is expected to be held. He complimented the front line detention staff and also Sgt. Steve Person on their participation and input into the project. • Video arraignment room is done and in operation. Feedback has been good from judges and others who utilize the system. • Restraint is room is nearly finished. Two restraint areas are physically separated by a partition and both are able to be viewed by Detention Officers through a window from their work area. • Second booking station is nearly finished. In the past,juveniles had to be escorted through a common area used by officers for report writing. This situation has been remedied. • Detention Officer work area has been improved with new paint, carpet, blinds and workstations. • Monitor racks are installed. • More storage has been added. Lt. Magnus noted that research on the second half of the project (the video portion), is nearing completion. Dixon Media was hired to put together the Request for Proposals and two bids have been received for the project, both coming in at approximately $200,000. Funding now needs to be established through City Council. He hopes to have council members tour the facility to see, first hand, the progress and to discuss future needs. Lt. Magnus distributed information on the time-lapse VCR system being proposed. The completed video system will utilize 40 cameras in various locations and 17 videocassette recorders. A personal computer with touch-screen commands allows control over which cameras and groups of cameras are recording at any given time. Recordings are in color and with audio. Individual switches located throughout the facility and "panic buttons" worn by detention officers will also be capable of turning on camera banks in related areas. Recordings can only be terminated by supervisor entering "stop codes" into the computer. The VCRs record one frame every 0.2 seconds which Lt. Magnus personally tested and is confident that the process is sufficient to provide a reliable recording of any notable occurrences. Tapes would only need to be changed every 24 hours. A discussion followed Lt. Magnus' presentation in which Commissioners expressed the importance of making the public aware of detention improvements. It was suggested that the media and Council be invited separate from the open house once the current construction is Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 3 cleared. Chief Teszlewicz noted that Commissioners would be notified of a press conference in the detention center to be held hopefully, before September 11. He will check the Mayor's schedule. Commissioners may assist by helping to make Council members aware of our progress and of the need for funding for video improvements. Politically, this should be a good project to support. Ms. Wood suggested Council support would be easier attained if we could show citizen support. Chief Teszlewicz volunteered Lt. Magnus to write an article / request for citizen input for the October issue of "The Call Box.". Commissioners, the Chief and Sgt. Rahl all agreed that the improvements to the center were very beneficial and that the personnel involved were to be commended. Annual Community-Police Relations Meeting Chief Teszlewicz reported that the Lansing Center is being considered as a possible site for next year's meeting. A discussion on next year's meeting was held which included recommendations to get the public involved in a manner similar to the partnership which organizes the MLK luncheon. (Sgt. Rahl mentioned he would be willing to work on the MLK commission and Commissioner Canady promised to relate this to its members.) The partnership must, at least, include the Mayor's office, the FOP, and the Board of Police Commissioners. It was mentioned that, given their recent success in getting the Citizen's Review Board on the ballot, the March for Justice may be willing to provide input into the organization of next year's meeting. It was suggested that this year's Community - Police Relations meeting site would be suitable for next year's meeting in that it provided intimacy and could accommodate the anticipated larger crowd. Complaint Procedure / Brochure Commissioner Frederick distributed the most recent drafts of a memo to City Council and a "Point of View" article for the Lansing State Journal. A discussion followed on the difficulties involved with a Citizen's Review Board. Commissioner Person distributed an August 19 Lansing State Journal article for the Commissioners' information concerning the ballot question. Concerning the drafts, Commissioner Frederick mentioned the importance of letting the City Council and the community know that the Board does have an opinion on the issue of a citizen's review board, that it acknowledges its responsibility to make sure that there is a review process, and that it is not willing to give that up voluntarily. Commissioner Canady distributed a letter from Mayor Hollister related to a civil investigator position and police complaint process. A discussion was held regarding Commissioner public statements, including appearances on cable television programs. Commissioner Canady mentioned that individual Commissioners were free to accept speaking invitations but need to be careful that they not speak for the entire Board without previous approval. Commissioner Maxsam agreed and felt that it might help alleviate Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 4 misconceptions if speaking engagements were accepted. Ms. Wood asked the Commission to clarify their support of a citizen investigator in relation to the role of Internal Affairs. She stressed the importance of making it clear to City Council where the Board stood. Lt. Maatman added that he believed the use of a civilian investigator is in violation of the FOP contract. Paul McComb suggested that a meeting between the Commission, the Mayor and the FOP scheduled for August 28 at 3:00 pm is where discussion of this question is best addressed / resolved. The group was in general agreement and supported the notion that a resolution be found which would avert possible legal action. Commissioner Maxsam added that allowing a citizen review board to impose sanctions on a police officer would be in violation of State law. Chief Teszlewicz suggested that a copy of the Commissions Point of View article be included in the October issue of The Call Box. He also mentioned that the LPD administrative staff has compiled a draft of the complaint procedure which he would distribute later in the meeting. Changes were suggested and incorporated into the drafts. A motion was passed to have figures in the "Point of View" article confirmed by LPD administrative staff and the revised copy prepared for mailing; as soon as possible. A second motion was passed to delay the distribution of the memo to Council pending the August 28 meeting with the Mayor which may prompt additional changes. It was agreed that the Point of View article be sent on Police Board of Commissioners letterhead. Commissioner Frederick announced that the Complaint brochure will be "on hold" until after the meeting with the Mayor. Meeting with editorial staff of the Lansing State Journal Chief Teszlewicz reported that his meeting has been set for September 11. Letter of Appreciation to Reverend Clayton The letter was reviewed and approved. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked if it might be appropriate to include Rev. Clayton in the planning of the annual conference. Commissioner Canady replied in the affirmative. PUBLIC COMMENTS Ms. Wood expressed her appreciation for the new combined LPD newsletter, The Call Box. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 5 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sgt. Ted Rahl Sgt. Rahl expressed the FOP Supervisor Union's appreciation for the fair manner in which the Commission conducted its investigation of the Melling incident. It will soon begin assisting in discussions aimed at "tweaking" the LPD reorganization. He expressed his sadness at the retirement of Chief Boles and their appreciation for being included in the upcoming selection process to find a successor. He reported to the Commission that members of his union would not be cooperating with the current Melling investigation conducted by the private firm of Joe Young and Associates as the union considers a second investigation could result in double jeopardy for their members. A discussion followed on the appropriateness of the City Attorney's office assisting the investigating company while, at the same time, representing City employees being interviewed. Sgt. Rahl continued his comments by expressing the union's favorable response to the Mayor's upcoming "open forum" discussions with LPD officers and on the ongoing dialog circles being held among LPD employees. He invited the Commission to consider coordinating a dialog circle for themselves. He reminded the Board that the FOP is interested in addressing the media. Lt. Joel Maatman Lt. Maatman echoed Sgt. Rahl's comments and related a story which he heard on his recent visit to Detroit as an escort to two Ukrainian police cadets. In Detroit, they have found their Citizen's Review Board to be extremely bureaucratic, forcing both minor issues and paramount concerns to take an inordinate amount of time to investigate and reach a decision regarding sanctions. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD received during the month of July 1997. Complaints against the Department The Board placed on file complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of July, 1997. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 6 July, 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of July, 1997. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this reporting period. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for this reporting period. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee - A new chair for this committee needs to be found and will be discussed next month. Awards & Citations Committee - Award ceremony is scheduled for September 17. Human Resources Committee - No report. Incentives Committee - No report. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Person - Reminded the Board of the PAL golf outing on September 3. Tickets are still available. He suggested Board members join the CAT auto theft prevention program by placing a sticker on their car. This means that your car may be stopped late at night to check that it is being driven by someone authorized to do so. Commissioner Person has received a letter from the Department of Transportation in appreciation of the Boards "thank-you" letter. They indicated their support of their employees participation in dialog circles. Commissioner Walker - Commissioner Walker expressed his regret that he was unable to attend Chief Boles' last Board meeting as he was a big supporter of his. Commissioner Frederick-Reiterated Commissioner Walker's comments. She appreciated working with Chief Boles on the Board and in other capacities. Regarding auto thefts, she commented on her disappointment in seeing a number of Lansing citizens leave their cars running unattended. Commissioner Frederick also expressed her appreciation to Officer Joel Cutler who provided a Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 7 follow-up visit to her home in regard to a stolen bike. He was very professional, observant and thorough. Commissioner Porter - Encouraged the Chief to write a commendation on the contribution of Chief Boles. Commissioner Canady made a motion that a plaque be purchased and engraved for presentation to the former Chief. Motion passed. Commissioner Canady requested that Vicky Gill be empowered to acquire an appropriate gift. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - No comments at this time. Commissioner Maxsam - Complemented Chief Boles on the excellent job he had done while at LPD, and welcomed Sgt. Rahl back to Board meetings. Commissioner Valdez - No comments at this time. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS Paul McComb Told the Board that a decision had been made earlier in the day that he would not be participating in coordinating interviews for the Joe Young and Associates investigation. It is his understanding that the scope of the investigation is rather narrow. It is not expected that they will wish to interview many LPD employees. Chief Teszlewicz The Chief invited the Commission to meet new members of the Department and their Field Training Officers on September 23 at 12:00 noon at the City's Wastewater Treatment Plant conference room. He informed the Commission that the organizational chart on the classroom wall has not yet been updated. He informed the Board that the North and South Precinct's newsletters had been combined. He reported favorably on his recent meetings with union leader Glenn Freeman and also with John Legg and Melling employees. Chief Teszlewicz distributed an LPD complaint procedure draft. He updated the Commission on the Department's traffic enforcement on Clemens Street indicating that the increased enforcement has caused a backlash with some residents who find they are being stopped for their own traffic violations. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes August 19, 1997 Page 8 He informed the Commission of an upcoming Q&A session the Mayor will be having with LPD employees on September 4. He and the Mayor are making an effort to meet one-on-one each week. He mentioned that he is keeping in contact with LSJ reporter, Mark Nixon, and believes that LPD coverage is better. Chief Teszlewicz welcomed the Oldsmobile Centennial celebration to Lansing and informed the Board of the company's intention to reimburse the Department for related sworn overtime. There will be a strong LPD officer presence. He would like to see this became an annual celebration. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Canady reminded the Commission of the following dates: • LPD meeting with the Mayor on August 28 at 3:00 pm • LPD Award Ceremony on September 17 • Commissioners' meeting with new recruits and officers on September 23 Commissioner Canady asked the Chief for clarification on the fingerprinting of property in relation to the case of an attempted stolen vehicle belonging to an acquaintance. Chief Teszlewicz explained how dampness and other residue on items can make the taking of fingerprints useless. He mentioned that the number of automobile larcenies is currently very high and that he anticipates a story on the local television news concerning them. He encouraged all citizens to contact an LPD supervisor whenever they have a question on procedures used by an officer. Commissioners Maxsam and Frederick commented that they were desirous of rescheduling a time to meet with Lt. Munshaw as they missed the original time set up by the disciplinary subcommittee. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS ; , _. SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES (COMPLAINT PROCEDURE DRAFT) -•, ` DULY 10, 1997 G CI(Y CLERK Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman Chief Paul Teszlewicz Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Armida Valdez Wendell Hall, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Willard Walker Absent: Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Lee Canady (N/A) Lieutenant Joel Maatman, FOP Sups Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed (N/A) Bruce Holliday, FOP Non-Sups Commissioner David Maxsam (A) Steve Relyea, FOP Non-Sups Commissioner Grady Porter (N/A) Steve Klein, FOP Non-Sups Art Walker,Human Relations&Community Services CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Frederick called the sub-committee meeting to order at 5:15 p.m. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING Commissioner Frederick stated the purpose of this meeting was to discuss the unresolved issues surrounding the draft of the new complaint procedure and hopefully determine in what direction the Board would proceed. She stated the City Attorney's Office is reviewing the job description of the Chief Investigator and the Board would withhold any comment or discussion on that position until the attorney's opinion was issued. She anticipates a completion date of July 25. Commissioner Person stated the Board formed a sub-committee to review and revise the complaint procedure and to initiate a complaint brochure and form which would be user friendly for our citizens. Commissioner Frederick explained she had a concern regarding the turnaround time of 120 days to conclude an investigation. She felt there should be some method by which the investigator could come to this Board to request an extension. She felt our citizens deserved more timely follow-up. Additionally, she stated she would like to see the form designed to allow for commendations as well as complaints. DISCUSSION OF THE NEW COMPLAINT PROCEDURE Lieutenant Maatman stated the union has met with Mr. Art Walker (Human Relations & Community Services [HRCS]) and Wendell Hall (City Attorney's Office) regarding the complaint procedure. They explained that certain parts of the procedure were in violation of the law, existing FOP contracts and past practices. In essence, the union feels the creation of the Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes (Complaint Procedure Draft) July 10, 1997 Page 2 position of Chief Investigator would be taking work away from their union. The FOP has requested (via FOIA) background and/or research information which was used to develop the draft of the new complaint procedure. The supervisors and non-supervisors unions met with the Mayor and he was assured the FOP was willing to participate in the discussions regarding this procedure. The union felt the discussions were fragmented and shared those concerns with the Mayor. He informed Mr. Hall the union had initially planned to meet with the Mayor again on May 16, but that meeting would be canceled because the FOP attorney would be out of town. They felt they need their attorney present for the discussions. They told the Mayor the timeframe in which the procedure was proceeding was too fast and suggested they slow down. The Mayor informed the union the complaint procedure was not an election issue and said the process should be slowed to ensure its legality. The union felt this procedure contained fundamental changes from previous practices. Lieutenant Maatman stated he has been attending the Board meetings for a long time on behalf of the union and was disappointed not to have been included in the discussions for the complaint procedure, after he was promised by this Board he would be included. He feels the complaint procedure will ultimately lead to discipline and discipline is a bargaining issue. He is disappointed the draft was written and submitted for approval without any input from the FOP. The union feels too many people are involved with different agendas and feels the process should be slowed down. Lieutenant Maatman stated there are three things that need to be decided: (1) a revision to the complaint policy which meets all legal requirements; (2) who investigates and determines who is right and/or wrong; and (3) who determines discipline. He feels strongly the complaint procedure leads to discipline. As an example, he suggested an officer would arrest a dope dealer. Even if the officer did everything correctly, the dope dealer could file a complaint against the officer, because dope dealers would never be satisfied with any police action. Someone without a thorough understanding of police procedures would investigate the complaint and possibly condemn the officer. He questioned how many officers would then be willing to investigate future complaints of dope dealing. Officers need assurance they will be backed for doing the right thing. Lieutenant Maatman questioned why the union was not notified of the sub-committee meetings and/or why they were not posted as special meetings? Officer Holliday questioned if there was a quorum at these meetings and whether or not minutes were taken. He suggested there may have been a violation of the Open Meetings Act. The union feels there are too many people with too many hidden agendas involved in the process and feel the process should be slowed down to ensure everyone involved is on the same course of action. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes (Complaint Procedure Draft) July 10, 1997 Page 3 The union feels they have been excluded from discussions and assured this Board he was available to them on this issue. There were a number of collective bargaining issues which need to be resolved. For example, he stated the Department already has a Code of Conduct, there is a Code of Conduct in the new Ethics Policy, and there is yet another Code of Conduct in the draft of the new complaint procedure. He questioned why the City would want to have three separate Codes of Conduct, each with different definitions. The FOP contract will not be opened for negotiation until about a year from now. But, he stated the union would be willing to discuss this procedure outside of the bargaining table prior to their scheduled contract negotiations because they feel it is in the best interest of the union and the citizens of our city. Commissioner Frederick questioned what in the final draft was different than what they initially agreed upon? Lieutenant Maatman stated they agreed the complaint process needed to be revised. While they did not totally agree with the disciplinary procedure because there were concerns regarding confidential/Privacy Act which needed to be addressed, they accepted it. They felt the Board needed training on what can and cannot be discussed in an open Board meeting regarding an employee's discipline. At the May meeting, the Board entered into a Unity Resolution with the union and the union left that meeting with the impression they would be involved in discussions regarding the new complaint procedure. He was shocked to learn the "draft" was being submitted to the Public Safety Committee for approval as a final document. Commissioner Frederick stated to her knowledge all meeting notices were posted. Lieutenant Maatman questioned who performed that function. Commissioner Person stated the meetings occurred in the HRCS Department and he was with the impression that department was providing secretarial support. He stated the draft was written based on a procedure obtained from the Detroit Police Department by someone in the HRCS Department. He felt that was to be the starting point for their discussions, not the final draft. Commissioner Frederick stated the complaint procedure is a mandate of this Board, not the HRCS Department. She feels that department moved forward without any input from this Board. The union understands the Board will perform a review function of the disciplinary action to ensure the Board has a clear picture of what is going on within the Department. They are disappointed the Board is endorsing hiring a civilian employee as the Chief Investigator to take, investigate, and ultimately decide upon the course of disciplinary action for sworn officers. Traditionally, an FOP Supervisor's Union employee has provided that function and this is a big point of contention with the union. Commissioner Frederick explained this Board is working on a complaint procedure by which citizens can file complaints, not the disciplinary procedure. She stated the complaint procedure is not intended to overlap into the disciplinary procedure. She felt the Internal Affairs Unit Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes (Complaint Procedure Draft) July 10, 1997 Page 4 would continue to perform their investigations. Lieutenant Maatman has no problem with that theory, but feels this new process will allow a civilian to pick and choose which cases will be investigated. Additionally, he feels at the conclusion of such an investigation, disciplinary action would result. Officer Relyea feels this opens the process to allow for civilians who do not understand police policies and procedures to become the judge, jury and executioner. Mr. Walker questioned why the union is so opposed to having civilians involved in the process of citizen's complaints of misconduct? Chief Teszlewicz stated the HRCS Department has been involved in this process since 1979, and routinely conduct joint investigations of such citizen complaints. Commissioner Person felt there was a misconception. He stated at the Board appointed the sub- committee to discuss a complaint/disciplinary procedure which involved three issues: (1) Review of discipline so the Board would be better informed; (2) a complaint brochure which would explain the process to our citizens; and (3) a complaint and commendation form which would be user friendly for our citizens. That is the extent of what the Board was asked to accomplish. He stated when the sub-committee met with Director Art Walker, they were given a draft of the new complaint procedure to review. Mr. Walker provided the research and it was his understanding the draft of the procedure and the job description of the Chief Investigator was identical to that of the Detroit Police Department. Shortly thereafter, this draft was being presented to the Public Safety Committee as a final procedure. He feels it is still in draft form, just a starting point for the Board. He stated when he learned of the error, he called Councilmember Sandy Allen (Public Safety Committee) and Jim Smiertka (City Attorney's Office) to stop the approval process until the union's concerns could be addressed. Commissioner Walker was with the impression everyone would meet to discuss the procedure prior to drafting a procedure. He stated he had never seen the document prior to the May Board meeting and was surprised it was being submitted for action since it was not on the meeting agenda. He is unclear how the Board got to this point. He hopes everyone can meet with the Mayor to resolve these issues. Mr. Art Walker stated he was unaware of this meeting tonight. Commissioners noted the meeting was posted the required 18 hours in advance of the meeting. He stated the Mayor has asked him to meet with the union to address some of their concerns regarding the new complaint procedure. He feels everyone should have been aware of the meetings because the charge for a new complaint procedure and the position of Chief Investigator were addressed in the Mayor's Action Plan. The Public Safety Committee met on numerous Saturdays to address this plan of action. It is clear to him the complaint process falls under the review of the Board of Police Commissioners and the Mayor did not want that part of the process to change. He stated Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes (Complaint Procedure Draft) July 10, 1997 Page 5 Councilmember Sandy Allen asked for a copy of the complaint procedure prior to considering the position of Chief Investigator. Mr. Walker stated this procedure was acceptable to the Public Safety Committee. He was also with the impression everyone was being kept informed of the progress. He stated he will continue to work with the FOP and the City Attorney's Office regarding the legal issues in question. He stated the City Attorney's Office will be bringing back their recommendations to this Board. Commissioner Person stated the Board tabled the procedure due to the apparent legal conflicts. Mr. Walker stated the Mayor's Office was not in any mood to have the complaint procedure delayed any further. He felt this Board's credibility with the public was in jeopardy if the Board did not speedily approve this procedure. He feels inaction will only lend itself to opening the door for a Citizen's Review Board. He is with the impression the procedure should be completed by the end of July. He excused himself to attend another meeting. Commissioner Walker feels the Board has an obligation to hear everyone's concerns. He agrees that everyone should be informed of the discussions. He understands there will never be total agreement with everyone involved, but feels an acceptable compromise can be reached. Commissioner Frederick conceded everyone involved in the process has similar goals, just different routes in achieving those goals. She feels there is definitely a lack of communication regarding the direction of this process. She feels citizen concerns are a problem with perception of the process rather than based on reality. She concurred the process needs to be a legal one. CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS, FOLLOW-UP Commissioner Walker felt there should be closure to the confusion. He feels an open discussion with the Board, FOP, Human Relations and Community Services, and the Mayor should occur. Commissioner Frederick stated she will contact the Mayor's Office to set up a date during the last week of July. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE rn THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON THURSDAY, JUNE 26 , 1997 , AT 5:00 P.M. AT THE SOUTH PRECINCT, CONFERENCE ROOM. THE PURPOSE OF THIS SPECIAL MEETING IS TO VIEW MELLING'S VIDEOTAPE OF THE MAY 29 , RALLY AND THE UAW VIDEOTAPE OF THE MAY 15 , RALLY. Board of Police Commissioners R C I V E D Special Meeting June 26, 1997 `7 JU d 25 AM 8: 11 LANSING CITY CLERK AGENDA I. Call to order and establishment of a quorum - Commissioner Person 11. Videotape Review A. Melling's tape of May 29, rally - Mr. Allison/Mr. Maurer B. UAW's tape of May 15, rally - Mr. McKnight III. Document Review A. Social Security Document - Mr. Allison IV. Discussion, Request Additional Information, Revise Plan of Action - Commissioner Person V. Adjournment 1' Board of Police Commissioners ,E�, ! Special Meeting E D June 23, 1997 c7 AN 23 prl I: I 1 AGENDA LANSING CITY CLERK I. Call to order and establishment of a quorum - Commissioner Person II. Continue Interviews - Commissioner Person A. Mr. Horton B. Mr. Mauser C. Mr. Allison III. Discussion, Request Additional Information, Revise Plan of Action - Commissioner Person IV. Adjournment k� BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON THURSDAY, JUNE 19 , 1997 , AT 5 :00 P. M. IN THE SECOND FLOOR CLASSROOM OF THE DOWNTOWN POLICE STATION . THIS IS THE FOURTH IN A SERIES OF SPECIAL MEETINGS TO REVIEW THE MELLING INCIDENT. AT THIS MEETING THE BOARD WILL CONDUCT INTERVIEWS. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES June 17, 1997 Members Present: Others Present: ` i `' Commissioner James Person, Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief cif-PR0i�b Gi I Y CLERK Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner David Maxsam Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Grady Porter Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public Present: Carol Wood, 1018 W. Lapeer Absent: Sgt. Ted Rahl, FOP Commissioner Deb Frederick (E) Glenn Freeman, AFL-CIO Commissioner Armida Valdez (E) Leroy McKnight, UAW John Legg, UAW ##721 Lloyd Teets, 116 E. Elm Darnell Oldham, 3815 Berwick Dr. Mr. Clark, 5717 Kaynorth Ken Morse, 1215 Lake Lansing Dennis Gary, 4625 Laurie Ln CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 5:37 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. He explained tonight's meeting is a regularly scheduled meeting, but following tonight's meeting there would be a short break and then the Board would continue interviews regarding the Melling incident. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were none. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of May 20, 1997, special meeting of June 5, 1997, and special meeting of June 11, 1997, were reviewed and approved. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Detention Recommendation Status Report Chief Boles reviewed the changes made to the report since the last meeting. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He explained we are still in the construction mode and detention personnel are dealing with it admirably although we are a little behind schedule. He stated we still do not have the consultant's report available on the video equipment but expects that report will be forthcoming. Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 2 Mayor's Action Plan Commissioner Person stated the police-community conference held on May 31, 1997, was a huge success. A copy of the report is attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Copies of the evaluations and comments from the conference were disseminated to Board members by the Human Relations Department. Recommendations made are being forwarded to affected departments for follow-up. He questioned whether or not we should begin planning the next conference. Commissioner Walker felt it would be helpful prior to the next annual conference to plan other events which would lead to the conference. He felt a reporting to the community, especially of major events would also be helpful throughout the year. Commissioner Canady felt this would enable the public to express what they would like discussed at the next conference. Sergeant Rahl questioned what do we do in the meantime. He feels the doors have been opened for open dialogue with the community and felt it should continue. Commissioner Maxsam questioned why the Board should assume responsibility for the conference and suggested a city-wide committee somewhat similar to the Greater Lansing Area Holiday Commission to assume the responsibility for planning the annual event. It was decided this item would be placed on the agenda for further discussion at the next meeting. Complaint Procedure/Brochure Commissioner Person explained that a final draft of the complaint procedure was accepted by the Public Safety Committee earlier today as well as the new position of Chief Investigator. Both were referred to the City Council for action. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned whether or not the Mayor had reviewed or seen the policy and job position. Commissioner Person stated he had been assured that both had been given to the Mayor. Sergeant Ted Rahl stated the FOP had a big problem with both the procedure and position. He stated there were at least four contract violations in the procedure and if enacted, the FOP would be seeking an injunction as well as suing this Board for violation of the Open Meetings Act. He stated the role of this new position has always been performed by a FOP bargaining unit member and investigative positions are required by MLEOTC to be filled by law enforcement officers. He was with the impression police officers were under no legal obligation to answer any questions of an investigator who was not a sworn officer and/or supervised by a sworn officer. He felt the new complaint procedure would deviate from the current disciplinary procedure and any such deviation was unacceptable by the union. He referenced a letter from the City Attorney's Office to the Board advising them they cannot change the FOP contract. Commissioner Maxsam was with the opinion the Board did not have to discuss the policy with the FOP, just inform them of it. Sergeant Rahl felt this was an item of collective bargaining and their contract is not bargained with this Board. He stated the union is to be notified of any changes in the working environment and felt this Board did not have the authority to make any such changes. Additionally, he stated the new position was a Teamster Exempt position and the FOP was never given notice. He referenced a letter addressed to Labor Relations dated May 23, 1997, from R. David Wilson following the May 20, 1997, Board meeting. Commissioner Maxsam stated the complaint process was separate and distinct from the union contract and the Board held the authority to change policies and procedures by City Charter. He asked to be put on record that he viewed the position of Chief Investigator as a position which would be focused on the complaint procedure and not the disciplinary procedure. Lieutenant Maatman stated he has been Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 3 attending these Board meetings for over a year and felt the rapport between the Board and the union had improved. He recalled at the May 20, 1997, meeting the Board gave the union a vote of confidence and stated any new policies and/or procedures affecting the union would be discussed with the union. Commissioner Canady was with the understanding the union had been notified of the new complaint procedure and apologized for the oversight. He suggested the Board obtain legal advice to resolve whatever differences there may be. Commissioner Maxsam contended that everyone was confused and explained this was not a policy regarding discipline, an item of collective bargaining, but a policy regarding how citizens file complaints, not an item of collective bargaining. He stated notification to the union did not mean their agreement or approval. He stated there was nothing in the procedure regarding discipline or punitive sanctions. Officer Steve Klein stated there was nothing in the procedure regarding the policeman's bill of rights. Lieutenant Maatman stated the procedure approved at the May 20, 1997, meeting indicated the Board would merely review the disciplinary complaints/actions, not investigate them. He explained the new policy outlines how complaints are taken, who investigates them, and how they are investigated. He stated that is quite different than review of an Internal Affairs investigation. He felt this Board had promised the union an opportunity to discuss the complaint procedure and that had not occurred. Commissioner Maxsam stated in the future this Board will be reviewing the actions of Internal Affairs and that a sub-committee had been formed to review such disciplinary actions. Mr. Jordan explained it was clear that any disciplinary action taken in regards to a police officer would fall under their contract. He reiterated that in an opinion written by the City Attorney's Officer on May 5, 1997, this Board was informed that they could not change the union's contract. He felt that was very well documented and discussed at great length at the May 20, 1997, Board meeting. He stated the Board is certainly allowed to make recommendations for changes in police policies, but does not have the authority to change the union's contract. He stated the City Attorney's Office has never seen any of these documents before today. Further, he stated there are police contracts in place which cannot unilaterally be changed. Sergeant Rahl stated he felt that most of the people here tonight have not seen these documents. He feels these documents were initiated privately and in violation of the Open Meetings Act. Commissioner Maxsam stated both documents were written by a sub-committee of this Board and in conjunction with the Human Relations and Community Services Department. He stated he was under the impression these meetings were open to the public and appropriately posted by Human Relations and Community Services Department personnel. He was with the understanding minutes were taken by the clerical staff of that department. Sergeant Rahl and Lieutenant Maatman felt that a complaint procedure with these types of concerns would only serve to further confuse the community. Both felt it would be in the best interest of the community for the Board to work with the union and the City Attorney's Office on the complaint procedure to ensure it was legal and equitable document. Commissioner Person stated he would contact Councilmember Sandy Allen to inform her of the discussion tonight and ask her to withhold her referral to City Council. Additionally, he stated Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 4 he would ask the City Attorney's Office to review the policy and new job position to ensure there were no contract violations. Commissioner Canady apologized for any misunderstanding and assured FOP officials the Board would work with them on this policy. He stressed the need to obtain legal advice on both the policy and new position. Commissioner Maxsam wanted to be on record that the policy does not include some of the language expected by the union because it was a civilian policy to document civilian complaints. He stated it is true that some citizen complaints lead to disciplinary action, but this complaint procedure has nothing to do with discipline nor is it intended to supersede the authority of the internal Affairs Unit. He stated this Board is given the authority under the City's Charter to investigate complaints and does not understand why the union is reacting negatively and refusing to cooperate. He resented the unions reaction tonight and felt insulted. He feels the policy is clear and concise and does not violate any contractual agreements. Meeting with Editorial Staff of the Lansing State Journal This item is still tabled until a later date. Letter to Ms. Williams Commissioner Frederick was absent from the meeting and this item was tabled. Unity Resolution & Correspondence The resolution by the Board of Police Commissioners and the FOP Supervisors and Non- Supervisors union was enclosed for review as well as the mayor's response to the Board and to union representatives. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. PUBLIC COMMENTS Mr. Teets questioned how a draft of a policy and job description could be approved at Public Safety Committee when it was obvious to him some members of this Board had not even seen the documents. He stated this is exactly why the citizens of Lansing want a Citizen's Review Board. He feels certain members of City government are attempting to get something in place so citizen's will be left with the impression there is a policy in place, when in fact there is not. Commissioner Person stated this policy change has been ongoing for about two years. Mr. Teets questioned why the policy appeared to be foreign to so many here tonight. He feels if the FOP had been involved in this process for two years, some conclusions and compromise would have been reached and it would be more likely an acceptable policy would have been presented here tonight. Commissioner Maxsam was disturbed by the confusion. He said there are clearly two policies delineated here: a disciplinary policy which was approved at the last meeting and the FOP attorney attended that meeting; and a complaint policy. He stated these are two separate and distinct policies. Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 5 Mr. Oldham was glad the FOP was present tonight to put the breaks to this policy. He has felt all along this policy change was prompted by the March For Justice but is has been the Mayor's baby under the direction of Mr. Art Walker. He feels the mayor is pushing to get something in place and is grateful for the FOP to stand up and block the draft of the new complaint procedure. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lieutenant Maatman felt the Board should keep the lines of communication open with the FOP. He stated the union would rather have dialogue with the Board than take another legal route. Commissioner Canady stated he thought that had occurred a couple of months ago and felt this Board should continue on that course. He stated he knows everyone will not agree but felt a compromise could be worked out with the union. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file ten letters and memorandums of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Complaints against the Department The Board reviewed and placed on file 18 complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of May, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Maxsam questioned the case regarding the individual who accused an LPD detective of taking his money while he was unconscious. Chief Boles stated this individual was robbed and hit in the head. The individual suffered severe injuries and was transported to the hospital. His clothing and property were taken by hospital personnel. When his property was returned to him (including $±300) but there was no wallet. His claim is that the additional cash was in the wallet. Chief Boles noted the motive of the assault was robbery. The detective conducted a photo line-up but the victim was unable to make a positive identification. The case remains open as the victim and his attorney have failed to come in an file a complaint or to be interviewed in the case. The department is unable to receive any information on the case. Commissioner Maxsam requested additional information on IA#97- 7056. Chief Boles will review the circumstances of this case with Commissioner Maxsam. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS May 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of May, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Person noted there were 9 police officer vacancies and 11 new police cadet applicants. Chief Boles stated we are in the process of filling 10 cadet vacancies. Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 6 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. It was noted there were four accidents involving police vehicles and each were found to have been preventable. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for the month of May, 1997. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. It was noted there were 708 reports taken for the month and 26,303 calls to the Communication Center. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Canady challenged each Board member to attend the Citizen's Police Academy. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter indicated the sub-committee had met and the awards ceremonies were scheduled for early fall. He suggested the newsletters for the north and south precincts be published in the Lansing State Journal. There was discussion regarding the cost and an alternative route suggested by the Citizen's Police Academy. Commissioner Canady suggested no action be taken until he discusses further with the Citizen's Police Academy. Human Resources Committee Commissioner Walker had no report for tonight's meeting. Incentives Committee Commissioner Valdez had no report for tonight's meeting. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady -Requested that the Board send Mr. Noel Copiaco a letter of appreciation for his part in dialogue circles. Mr. Copiaco took vacation time from his job (engineer for MDOT) and served as a facilitator for dialogue circles. The Board concurred. Ms. Gill will send a letter on the Board's behalf. Commissioner Frederick - Absent from tonight's meeting. Commissioner Maxsam - No additional comments. Commissioner Person- On Saturday, June 14, 1997, the Reverend Clayton held a police support forum and Sergeant John Parks accepted an award on behalf of the Police Department. Commissioner Porter suggested the Board write a letter of appreciation to Reverend Clayton for his efforts in coordinating this event. The Board concurred. Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 7 Commissioner Porter - No comment. Commissioner Valdez - No comment. Commissioner Walker - No comment. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Boles stated he saw his first copy of the complaint procedure draft today at 1:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Committee meeting. Commissioner Person apologized and again stated he thought everyone had been notified. He accepted responsibility for the misunderstandings and felt he could get both documents stopped before they were presented to City Council. OTHER BUSINESS P.A.L. Golf Outing Commissioner Canady stated the outing is September 3, 1997. He encouraged everyone to support P.A.L. in whatever way they could. Copies of the application and donation forms are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. BREAK The Board took a short break at 7:00 p.m. MR. JOHN LEGG'S ACCOUNT OF THE MELLING INCIDENT Mr. McKnight distributed a copy of a letter from Sheriff Wrigglesworth indicating his staff had been notified by Captain Cook about three or four days prior to the rally. Additionally the Board accepted a letter from Glenn Freeman and Cynthia McRae. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He introduced Mr. John Legg as the President of UAW Local 724. Mr. John Legg asked that UAW members on the front line speak later in the meeting to allow time for Commissioner Frederick to arrive. She had asked to hear dialogue between those picketers and the Melling attorney. Mr. Legg thanked the Board of this opportunity to speak. He stated they had been on strike since November 18, 1996, and since that time had met with representatives of the Lansing Police Department numerous times. He stated he has spent his whole life working at Melling and he has spent considerable time there during the strike. He stated no scabs entered the plant until March 11, 1997. He stated people came from Indiana, the location of the corporate offices for Melling and that is when the UAW began monitoring the gates and attempting the slow them down. Mr. Legg stated Melling management was allowed in and out of the plant with no problems, the UAW did not feel management was a threat to them. The union took exception Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 8 when management imported workers from Indiana. Mr. Legg stated he knows there are laws that govern what picketers can and cannot do. He stated picketers stood in front of the gate and asked replacement workers not to go in. But when asked to move, the picketers moved. Melling called LPD daily. Officers responded between 7:45 and 8:00 a.m. to escort workers in and 5:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. to escort workers out. Union members could only step aside, call them scabs, and stand there and watch them go in and take their jobs. He equated the acts of replacement workers to that of stealing and felt they would be arrested for stealing, but not taking his job. He stated that went on for months. His conversations with Sergeant Rahl left him with the impression the police department wanted consistency so there would be no surprises for anyone. Every day the officers came they would ask if there were any new people so the process could be explained and everyone would know what to do. He feels LPD officers became tired of this process as did the strikers. The union decided to conduct a few support rallies, the first being May 15, 1997. He stated several other labor organizations had supported strikers with food and money and they wanted to thank them for their support. They were invited to the rallies. Mr. Legg stated the police would always make contact with him or his designee, tell the crowd they needed to move apart, the police officers would stand between the picketers and the Melling workers. He stated the picketers got use to this routine, as it was the practice every time police were on the scene. On May 15, officers came in from Benjamin Street on foot in a group and asked picketers to move, and they did so but at their own pace. Mr. Legg stated he had a bullhorn and asked picketers to spread apart further so vehicles could exit safely. He felt he had a good relationship with the police department and did not want to do anything to jeopardize that relationship. Mr. Legg stated at the beginning of the May 15, 1997, rally there was some sort of shoving incident which involved a member of the union and a police officer. He was not there and did not witness the incident. He stated the incident was so insignificant that no police report was written and no charges were filed by either of the involved parties. He even stated to picketers at the May 15, 1997, rally the police were not their enemy and asked them to cooperate when police arrived and asked them to separate. Mr. Legg felt this shoving incident was used as the excuse by the police to justify their use of a Mobile Field Force on May 29, 1997. He stated the police had grown tired of the union and the routine for the past six months. He relayed a comment to the Board which was relayed to him which supposedly came from one of the officers, "...anyone lays a hand on one of us, we're gonna take care of 'em." Mr. Legg felt his role in the May 23, 1997, meeting was to de-escalate the friction between the union and the police department. He stated at the end of the meeting on May 23, he offered police administration an opportunity to attend their union meeting and stated he would meet with any group of police officers. This offer was made as an effort to open the lines of communication between the union and police department. He felt it was his role to reduce any friction and open dialogue so that everyone had an understanding of the other's position. Commissioner Walker questioned who called the meeting on May 23, 1997. Mr. Legg stated Bruce McAttee of the UAW called the meeting. Commissioner Walker questioned if the May 29, rally was discussed. Mr. Legg stated it was, but there was no mention of the use of tear Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 9 gas. Commissioner Walker questioned if the shoving incident of May 15, had been discussed. Mr. Legg stated the mayor had been told the officer had been shoved to the ground. Union officials felt the recount of this incident had been blown out of proportion. Commissioner Walker questioned if that situation had been rectified at the May 23, meeting. Mr. Legg stated only two people have been arrested during the entire strike, one union member and the son of a union member. He stated union officials grabbed their person involved in the shoving incident and police grabbed theirs. No charges were filed and no reports were written. He felt the situation had been resolved. He stated the Memorial Day weekend passed with no further communication with police department administration. He stated Sergeant Rahl arrived for the usual routine escorts in and out of the plant. He stated nothing further was heard from police administration until a canister of tear gas landed at his feet at the May 29, rally. He stated union officials are still trying to figure out what they did wrong. He stated in the meeting of May 23, 1997, the union told police administration their anticipated plan of action. And part of that plan was to stand at the gate a little longer and inconvenience the Melling workers. He stated he answered all of department's questions and was open about the union's planned activities. He stated police officials never mentioned the possibility of a Mobile Field Force or the use of tear gas. He stated during the course of the rally there was a car hauler blocking the gate. This vehicle was used as the podium for speeches by union officials at the May 29, rally. He stated he had asked that the truck be placed in front of the gate as a symbolic gesture. The vehicle was driven by a man named Chris Sherwood (aka: Tiny). Mr. Sherwood had been asked to move the vehicle. At one point several picketers placed objects (i.e. log/pieces of wood) behind the rear wheels and stood in front of the vehicle. Mr. Sherwood was unable to move the vehicle in a more timely manner. But the vehicle was eventually moved. He stated Lieutenant Maatman was a new face to him and that made him nervous. He stated their first encounter was not a good one. He was told Lieutenant Maatman was in charge although he did not understand why a Captain would relinquish control to a lieutenant. He stated he was told picketers would have to move. Mr. Legg stated they would, but it would probably take a little longer than usual. Lieutenant Maatman stated he wanted the remaining group to move to the west side of the street. Mr. Legg stated the four or five buses from Flint had left and the crowd had dwindled to about 60-80 people. He questioned why the rules were being changed at the last minute. He stated he argued with Lieutenant Maatman because most of the people present knew the routine and his orders were a variation of the routine. He conceded, got on the bullhorn, and told his people they were going to be asked to move to the west side of Polly Street. He urged picketers to cooperate with the police. Although he questioned the changes, he attempted to gain the cooperation of his fellow union members. He stated he never saw the routine compliment of officers, but rather an intimidating group of about 50-60 officers in riot gear. He stated they were banging night sticks on their shields and it made him and the rest of the crowd angry. He stated picketers began banging their strike signs on the Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 10 ground. Lieutenant Maatman informed him they were done talking and asked Mr. Legg to move the crowd to the west side of the street. He stated shortly thereafter a canister of tear gas was fired into the crowd. A total of 6-8 canisters of tear gas was fired into the crowd. He stated there were retirees, someone with emphysema, a man with only one lung, a woman that was completely engulfed by the tear gas, and children in the crowd. He stated he was strong and had previously experienced the effects of tear gas in the military, but there were helpless people that day affected by the tear gas. He stated he circled around and back to Lieutenant Maatman's position and enroute witnessed several police officers laughing and/or grinning from ear-to-ear. He stated there were several younger officers who thought their actions were cute and that they had done a great thing. Mr. Legg believes the use of tear gas was uncalled for, but the gloating of some of the younger officers was totally unnecessary. He has been assured by Sergeant Rahl that officers exhibiting this behavior have been counselled. Commissioner Walker questioned the change in the usual routine. Mr. Legg stated in all of his dealings with the police department, consistency was stressed. Police would approach the union official on the line each day, let them know what was about to happen, and solicit their cooperation. Again, he stated he questioned the new face of Lieutenant Maatman and the relinquishment of authority to an officer of a lesser grade. He stated most of the previous conversations had been with either Sergeant Rahl or Captain Cook. Commissioner Walker questioned if the changes were significantly different or just different. Mr. Legg stated Lieutenant Maatman wanted everyone located in one spot rather than in the usual way. He stated people are creatures of habit and changes only serve to confuse them. He had previously told the crowd that when the police come they will ask us to separate. Then after receiving conflicting instructions from Lieutenant Maatman had to go back to the crowd with a different set of instructions. He stated those changes made it difficult to be in a leadership role that day. Commissioner Maxsam observed the bulk of the people at the May 29, rally were from out-of- town and questioned their knowledge of standard operating procedure. He felt the only people with an established routine would have been the local Melling strikers. Mr. Legg responded that everyone was cold and wet as it had been raining all day. He stated most of the buses from out- of-town had already left when the gas was used. He stated the remaining bus from out-of-town contained a bunch of retirees from the Flint area and they were there with the original strikers. Mr. Legg stated the police were totally out-of-line to have used tear gas at this rally. From his military training, he believes gas should only be used when someone is in danger of being hurt. He stated he met with Chief Boles the day after the incident and that meeting was not pleasant. He feels Chief Boles owes an apology to the entire labor community as well as to the neighborhood. Commissioner Canady questioned why when the union members hear Mr. Legg's announcement to get back they did not. He questioned the probability of whether or not picketers would listen to the police when they would not even listen to their own union leadership. Regarding the rally on June 12, 1997, everyone noted it was a peaceful demonstration. Mr. Legg stated he and union officials met with city officials prior to that rally to hopefully avoid Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 11 a repeat of the May 29, incident. He stated he was angry and did not want to share with the city officials the union's plans. But he knew a peaceful demonstration/rally would be far more superior to a violent one and felt it was his role to do everything possible to ensure a peaceful rally. While union officials feel the gassing was unjustified, they extended their hands to the police to make amends. He stated the mayor and city council members were invited to the rally because the union felt more public faces would lessen their chances of a bad outcome. He stated the union agreed to place marshals at strategic places to police their own membership and told the police they were not needed at the rally. Commissioner Walker questioned if the union had been afforded that same offer for the May 29, 1997, rally. Mr. Legg stated they never believed marshals were needed, nor did they believe the police would use tear gas. Commissioner Canady stated it happened and questioned where the union was in its relationship with the police department. Mr. Legg stated as president of the union it is his goal to conduct peaceful pickets on the Melling line. He stated the publication disseminated to the neighborhood from Chief Boles indicated the possibility existed for the use of tear gas at some point in the future. He felt that statement was unnecessary. The first use of tear gas was unprovoked and the suggestion of its reuse totally uncalled for. Commissioner Person questioned Mr. Legg's understanding of the ESOP as there had been conflicting comments from Melling management and a letter to the editor in the Lansing State Journal. Mr. Legg stated the union developed the plan. The owner of the corporation, Mr. Leon Boron, attempted to block the purchase and hindered the gathering of information by the union. Mr. Legg feels the ESOP died because it was stonewalled by the corporation. Mr. Jordan questioned whether or not the union had received a copy of the city's ordinance regarding the strike. Mr. Legg stated Captain Cook provided that document early in the strike. Mr. Freeman stated the union was fully aware they had to move from in front of the gate. Mr. Jordan asked if any other officer asked Mr. Legg to move the vehicle. Mr. Legg responded affirmatively. When asked if he moved when he was initially asked, Mr. Legg stated no. Picketers had routinely been given ample opportunity to move at their own pace. He stated in the past, they were never expected to move immediately. He stated police would always preface their request with, "you need to start moving people apart." Then they were usually afforded about 15-20 minutes to move. Mr. Jordan asked if when they saw the Mobile Field Force if they were irritated and in essence were saying, "I dare you." Mr. Legg stated Mr. Jordan irritated him, but he was not daring him. Mr. Jordan stated he was just attempting to find out what happened. He stated we all like to think we are reasonable people, but sometimes reasonable people do unreasonable things. He questioned whether or not Mr. Legg was able to control his temper. Mr. Legg stated was angry, but felt his role as a union leader contributed to his ability to control his temper. He said once that order was given to use the tear gas, there was no backing up. Mr. McKnight questioned if any police officer approach Mr. Legg on May 29, to declare the rally an unlawful act. Mr. Legg stated no one did. Mr. McKnight questioned if the usual routine of the officers drawing a tactical line through the picketers occurred on May 29. Mr. Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 12 Legg stated this practice usually began about 10 to 15 minutes after 5:00 p.m. every evening. On May 29, this was not done. He stated that was confusing to him. Mr. McKnight questioned if in the meeting on May 23, if Mr. Legg had a clear understanding of what occurred that day. Mr. Legg stated he had no reason to think anything would have been done differently that day. Mr. Legg stated Lieutenant Maatman would offer no clarification or reason for the change in orders. He stated his people were confused. He stated we needed to understand that he is not use to kissing people's butts. He had asked his group to move, but when it became obvious they were not and his people were being unreasonable, he put down his bullhorn and stood with them knowing the gas was about to be used. He feels he did everything within his power to ensure there was no incident at that rally. He takes offense at those who would suggest somewhere along the line he acted inappropriately and/or did not do what he was suppose to do. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if anyone said anything to him about the possibility of chemical use. Mr. Legg stated he only knew gas was being used when he witnessed police officers putting on their gas mask and the first canister was lobbed into the crowd. She then asked how Stephanie (the woman with the bullhorn in the videotapes) knew the gas would going to be used. Mr. Legg assumed she too saw officers donning their gas mask. It was noted (from the videotape) Stephanie announced to the crowd the officers were going to gas them because she had seen their gas mask bags hanging to their sides. Mr. Glen Freeman stated he stayed there the whole time. He felt a sense of responsibility to his folks to ensure peace at the rally. He stated he did not want to see the 60-70 people who were left there that afternoon be subjected to violence. He stated he attributed the actions that day to City Hall and the people holding public offices. He stated the union made an effort to meet with the City to ensure there was dialogue. He stated when you freely give information regarding your plans and the City uses that information to kick the hell out of you, then the next time information will not be given so freely. He feels this was an unjust and improper assault on Lansing citizens and is hopeful there will be some remedy. He wants assurance that this will not be the accepted standard of practice for any such future gatherings. Mr. McKnight questioned if Mr. Freeman heard any clear notification that gas would be used. Mr. Freeman did not. He stated the only clear announcement he heard was after the gassing. Mr. Leon Hilton felt the meeting on May 23, was an intelligence gathering meeting. It was never indicated in that meeting that the union was out of control. Nor was there any mention the police department expected anything other than the usual routine, only a slightly larger crowd. Mr. Legg stated the assistant chief attended the meeting on May 23. He seemed to listen and empathize with the union's point-of-view. He seemed to understand the devastation of the Melling strikers. He appeared to have been listening intently on what was being said. Mr. Legg stated he was almost shocked by his sense of understanding and what he felt was genuine emotion. He left that meeting with a feeling that more dialogue would develop. He now feels that meeting was a waste of time. Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 13 There was discussion about the Melling attorney, Loren Allison, who had been in Flint earlier that day. He showed up at the plant about 6:23 p.m., nearer the end of the rally, parked on Benjamin Street, and walked through the crowd onto Melling property. He had a conversation with Bob Smith, the union's strike chairman. Dennis Gary stated he has known Mr. Legg for 28 years. He agreed with Mr. Legg's recount of what happened that day. He stated the only mistake Mr. Legg made that day was that he was unaware gas would be used. He stated everyone knew about it. He stated the local FOP, the Teamsters, and the Lansing Fire Department knew gas was going to be used. He felt this was a planned exercise. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked if he had heard an announcement about tear gas being used. He stated he was on the far side closer to the gate and that most of the action was occurring on the east side. So, no he did not hear any such announcement. Mr. Kenny Morse stated he was outraged by the comments made by Mr. Allison at the line. He felt Mr. Allison was out-of-line by walking through the crowd. He felt he was taunting the crowd. He stated Mr. Allison always wanted the union to make concessions. Knowing his position regarding contract negotiations, he felt Mr. Allison's presence only served to antagonize the crowd. Mr. Morse felt Mr. Allison was attempting to start a fight with just one of the union members. Mr. Morse said he heard Mr. Allison say in an interview with TV 10, those were the kind of things he had to do to make this place run more efficiently. He felt it was inappropriate for Mr. Allison to have made those comments in front of the strikers/picketers. He felt if the union had been a violent group, someone would have grabbed Mr. Allison. Instead, everyone remained calm. He also stated he was intimidated by the numbers and display of police force. He felt everyone was entitled to a contingency plan, but felt there was no violence that day and the use of gas was unwarranted. Commissioner Farhat-Reed questioned if he ever heard anyone say they were going to use gas. Mr. Morse admitted he had the worst hearing of all of the Melling strikers, but he never heard a police officer or anyone in the position of authority tell them to move or mention the possibility that gas would be used. Mr. Legg stated there was a meeting on Friday, May 30, and he admitted that there were certain circumstances in which gas may be necessary, but he felt it was uncalled for on May 29. He equated the situation that day to something that may happen in a foreign country, not America. He stated there was no way for this Board to understand what it was like to have been a productive person all of one's life, to have someone come in an essentially steal your job, and to now live on less than $150 per week. And he felt this was the ultimate insult to those strikers. He stated he has had nothing but respect for the Lansing Police Department. He respects police officers and feels they have a difficult job, one he would not want to have. He understands that everyone makes mistakes. He too has made mistakes as a union leader, but has been man enough to have admitted his mistakes. He believes the department made a mistake. He believes the department's chief owes the Lansing union community an apology for the department's action that day, a mistake. He believes without that, no further progress can be made. Board of Police Commissioners Regular Meeting Minutes June 17, 1997 Page 14 CLOSING COMMENTS Mr. Person thanked everyone for attending tonight's meeting and ensured everyone who wanted to speak had an opportunity to do so. He stated the Board was planning to hear from Melling at the next meeting. Chief Boles stated in a letter written by a union member there had been some suggestion that Mr. Allison was conducting the actions of the police department that day. He noted that Mr. Allison was never in contact with the police department that day. He stated there were three calls to the Communications Center that day from Melling asking to get out of the building. And those tapes are being transcribed for the Board. Mr. McKnight questioned whether or not Mr. Allison was ever in a police vehicle just prior to the order to use gas. Chief Boles stated Mr. Allison was never at the staging area. It is his understanding Mr. Allison was already on Melling property prior to the police arriving at the gate. Mr. Legg stated he had no reason to doubt what Chief Boles was saying. He just believes there needs to be an apology to the union community. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 9:02 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS ' SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES June 13, 1997 LANSN't!C CITY CLERK Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief of Police Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner David Maxsam Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Armida Valdez Mike Parker, Teamsters #580 Commissioner Willard Walker Evelyn Harvey, 850 Lincoln Ted Rahl, FOP Supervisor's Union Guests: Jim Gilmore, Teamsters #580 Leroy McKnight, UAW Leon Hilton, UAW Loren Glasscock, LPD CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. Commissioner Person thanked everyone for attending. UAW'S VIDEO FOOTAGE OF THE MELLING INCIDENT Mr. McKnight gave a brief history of the UAW and its development over the past 50 years. He reviewed the current structure of the UAW at the national, regional, and local levels. He stated three rallies were planned to support striking workers at Melling: May 15, 1997; May 29, 1997; and June 12, 1997. He stated their intent was to have a show of support, to take their time, and be inconvenient to Melling management and the replacement workers. He stated their intent was never to undermine the actions of the Lansing Police Department, he feels they had a verbal agreement with the police, but questioned their use of force at the May 29, 1997, rally and he played the UAW videotape. He pointed out that when union officials spoke they asked for peace and patience from the crowd. The first contact with LPD was 5:22 p.m. when Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman spoke with a union member about moving the truck which was blocking the Melling gate. Mr. Legg spoke with Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman at 5:26 p.m. (until 5:34). The tape was stopped and Commissioner Valdez questioned whether or not another exit could have been used to get the Melling workers out. Sergeant Rahl stated there were three exits effectively closed to LPD: (1) the eastern gate at Thompson and Benjamin was always blocked by broken glass, concrete blocks and/or what appeared to be large logs and was inaccessible. (2) The back entrance exits onto Boichot Concrete property. Mr. Boichot informed LPD his drivers were Teamsters and he didn't want any trouble. The one day that LPD used Mr. Boichot's entrance, UAW shut down Boichot Concrete for a whole day. Mr. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 13, 1997 Page 2 Boichot refused to allow his property to be used by Melling workers after that point. (3) There is another set of external doors in the front, but they are not large enough to get vehicles into or out of the building. He stated the only entrance/exit available to LPD was that on Polly Street. He stated that was the entrance/exit LPD has been using for the past six months. And that was the gate picketers targeted. There was discussion about whether or not emergency vehicles could get into or out of the neighborhood if needed. Chief Boles stated he had driven in the area between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. in a police vehicle, but doubted if any heavy equipment (i.e. fire truck or paramedic vehicle) could have gotten through. It was noted that some of the union buses left between 5:27 and 6:00 p.m. There was considerable discussion about the usual routine. Sergeant Rahl stated LPD routinely targeted a 15 minute window from 7:45 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. to get workers inside and from 5:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. to get workers out of the gates. Management/employees who did not enter/exit at those times were left on their own. Mr. McKnight stated the usual drill was that workers would line their vehicles up near a large dumpster behind a secondary set of gates, but on May 29, that did not happen. Chief Boles stated Melling management had been contacted by Captain Cook and told they would be unable to exit the building by 5:00 p.m. on May 29. He stated he is attempting to have the 911 Center tapes (in which Melling management is calling to get out of the building) transcribed for the Board's review. Mr. McKnight stated vehicles had been staged at that location on the May 15, at 5:00 p.m. but they were not allowed by striker/picketers to leave until 6:30 p.m. At 5:50 p.m., the tape indicated Mr. John Legg asked Chris Sherwood, aka: "Tiny," to move his truck which was blocking the Melling gate. Sergeant Rahl questioned if that was when someone tried to let the air out of the truck's tires. There was a live TV 10 broadcast from the scene at 6:02 p.m by reporter Phil Dawson. It was noted by Mr. McKnight that LPD vehicles were about 1/4 mile away from the scene. Also at 6:02 p.m., Lieutenant Maatman is shown speaking with Mr. Legg indicating the truck should be moved or someone would be arrested (in the background the cameraman asks, "Is he gonna arrest us all?"). Mr. McKnight noted the cameraman's attitude could possibly be related to his arrest which occurred two nights previous to this incident for obstructing, resisting, and/or disobeying an official order. He stated that situation is being resolved in the court system now. The film showed Captain Cook asking Mr. Legg to move the crowd as well and Mr. Legg relayed this information to the crowd. At 6:10 p.m. Mr. Legg assured Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman he would have the crowd moved. Mr. McKnight noted that at 6:08 the cameraman said, "sounds like they're changing the rules on us..." Mr. McKnight again discussed the usual routine and how the picketers expected the Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 13, 1997 Page 3 vehicles to stage near the dumpsters. They also expected the police to come up and part the crowd to allow the Melling workers out of the gates. Chief Boles stated he took exception to the usual expectations of the crowd, most of the picketers were from out of town and had never been to the area; they didn't know what to expect. Mr. McKnight stated for six months officers had been "spreading the waters" so to speak, but on this night the rules had changed and they were being asked to go across the street. Commissioner Walker noted it appeared from the tape, there was a verbal agreement when LPD command officers walked away from union officials. In the UAW tape, the cameraman makes several references to the rules being changed. Mr. McKnight noted the time the Melling Attorney, Mr. Allison, came outside at 6:23 p.m. and returned again at 6:28 p.m. It appeared there was verbal taunting by the strikers toward Mr. Allison, but Mr. McKnight noted one of the security guards escorting Mr. Allison was a retired UAW member, and most of the remarks from the crowd were directed at him. Mr. McKnight stated there were a couple of key points that he would like to clarify (i.e. where the police vehicle was parked and where it moved to for the announcement that tear gas would be used). At 6:43 p.m., Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman returned to the gate and announced "the party's over." There was expletives shouted from the crowd. The lady with the bullhorn, identified by Mr. McKnight as Stephanie, announced that the Captain had a gas mask in that bag. Commissioners asked for the identity of Stephanie. Mr. McKnight stated she was a trustee of Local #602 in Lansing (Fisher Body). They questioned the role of a trustee as well as her role at the strike scene and whether she was asked to be there or if she came on her own. Mr. McKnight stated as a trustee she performed financial audits and that she was there that day on her own to support the Melling strikers. On the video at 6:45 p.m., Mr. Legg came back to speak with police command. He was asked to get picketers across the street. Mr. Legg offered a bull horn to Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman to tell the crowd what they wanted. At 6:47 Mr. Legg announced to the crowd they were going to have to go across the street. At 6:48 the LPD Mobile Field Force marched in and Mr. Legg again told the crowd that they would be asked to stand on the opposite side of the street and remain calm. He pleaded with them to move; they did not. Mr. McKnight also noted the police vehicle was parked on Thompson at 6:50; police were standing on the grassy area and they were banging their shields. Picketers began pounding their sticks on the ground/pavement. At 6:51 p.m. Mr. Legg walked away from Lieutenant Maatman. There was a gap in the tape from 6:51 to 6:54, Mr. McKnight stated it was unfortunate, but conceded this could have bene the time when the official announcement had been made. At 6:54 officers put their gas masks on. At 6:55 p.m. the first tear gas canister was fired into the crowd and the crowd dispersed. From 6:57 p.m. to 7:22 p.m., there were Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 13, 1997 Page 4 several expletives shouted from the crowd. At 7:06 p.m. Captain Cook made a PA announcement to the crowd to get out of the area or they would be subject to arrest. He urged them to get in their vehicles and leave the area. He made the same announcement again at 7:09 p.m. UAW members noted that from 6:48 p.m. when the officers were in riot gear to 6:55 p.m. when the gas was deployed, was a period of about seven minutes. They feel this was an accelerated version of what they saw on the Mobile Field Force Training Videotape. There were three to four minutes where an announcement could have been made. Additionally, Mr. McKnight disseminated copies of June 1997, Praxis (copy attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum) and called everyone's attention of a section highlighted on page two in which they acknowledged some responsibility for "lobbing some eggs at the building and breaking some windows." There seems to be a big point of contention regarding whether or not Captain Cook made an official announcement that gas would be used. Commissioner Frederick stated she heard Captain Cook's voice on the PA on the LPD videotape, although she was unable to determine what was being said, he did make some sort of announcement. She stated there was considerable noise and was doubtful if many heard the announcement. It was noted that Stephanie and her bullhorn was the more audible voice in all of the crowd. Chief Boles stated he heard the announcement at the scene, but did not see it on the videos. Mr. McKnight acknowledged that at 6:51 p.m. an officer was standing next to a police vehicle, officers were banging their shields and picketers their sticks, but he heard no announcement. However, the police vehicle moved again and there was an announcement to disperse and that was clear on the UAW tape. Commissioner Canady was confused by the union indicating there was no announcement made, he heard Mr. Legg on both tapes make an announcement and questioned why union picketers would not listen to their own union leadership. Additionally, Mr. McKnight disseminated a copy of a letter he had received from Mr. Jack Jordan indicating there were no police reports for the Melling rally on May 15, 1997. Mr. McKnight questioned if the picketers were so disorderly, why were there no police reports written. He also brought a sample of the signs picketers were carrying at the May 29, rally. He noted that the sticks were lx3" pine boards which were easily broken and doubted their use as weapons to harm anyone. Sergeant Rahl stated some of those sticks were actually shovel handles and other, stronger pieces of wood about 3x3" at various times during the past six months which could have been used as weapons. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 13, 1997 Page 5 Mr. McKnight stated he had been in contact with Sheriff Gene Wrigglesworth who admitted he had been contacted by Captain Rick Cook three or four days prior to the incident on May 29. Chief Boles explained there was a lot of planning that occurred for the better part of a week prior to the rally on May 29. LPD had planned to have a Mobile Field Force at the rally and the Ingham County Sheriff's Department's paramedic unit had been contacted to be a part of the tactical team which is the back-up arrest team. BREAK The Board took a short break between 6:25 and 6:30 p.m. TV10 NEWSCLIPS Officer Loren Glasscock stated he was in the TV 10 newsvan just prior to the Mobile Field Force coming on scene. He overheard the conversation between Captain Rick Cook, Lieutenant Maatman, and Mr. Legg in which Captain Cook asked Chris Sherwood (aka: Tiny) to move the truck and witnessed people moving in front of the vehicle to keep it from being moved. He also heard Captain Cook make an announcement on two separate occasions for the picketers to move or they would be gassed. Once he saw the Mobile Field Force masking up he re-entered the van because he did not have a gas mask. He stated TV10 and TV6 would not release their raw footage. TV6 has recycled their Melling footage. He has made arrangements for the Board of Police Commissioners to view the raw footage from TV 10 on either Tuesday or Wednesday of next week between the hours of 12:15 p.m. and 2:15 p.m. at the TV10 Station. The contact person is Jennifer Dahl at 394-9310. Commissioner Farhat-Reed volunteered to make the reservations for those wishing to attend the viewing. Mr. Gilmore questioned whether or not Officer Glasscock saw or heard that someone had taken the keys from the truck. Officer Glasscock stated he did not hear anything like that, but explained his primary function is to take care of the media. The TV10 and TV6 videotape of aired footage was played for Commissioners and the following people were interviewed by TV10: Sirae Harder; Matthew Carr; Sharon Bero; Sally Humphrey; John Legg, David Carter (MSU Police) and Shirl Brown. Officer Glasscock stated the only announcement heard on the TV10 footage regarding the use of gas was made by Stephanie, the union member with the bullhorn. Ms. Harvey questioned why those with health problems and small children did not go inside and shut their doors and windows, or just leave the area. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 13, 1997 Page 6 SCHEDULED FOR THE NEXT MEETING, TUESDAY, JUKE 17, 1997 Commissioner Person stated Mr. John Legg of the UAW has been scheduled for an interview. Anyone else wishing to be interviewed should contact Vicky Gill at 483-4800 prior to the Tuesday night meeting. Mr. McKnight stated he would attempt to have Mr. Bob Smith, the strike chairman, available for the next meeting too, if possible. Commissioner Person stated he has contacted the Medical Examiner, Dr. Dean Sienko, for a contact of someone who can speak to the effects of tear gas. Dr. Sienko served as a medical military officer and has a contact in Aberdeen, Maryland. He will fax the information to Ms. Gill. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Everyone noted the rally on June 12, 1997, was inspirational. They had a good agenda, good weather, and everything was orderly. Attendance at the rally gave some commissioners an opportunity to view the melling site. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON FRIDAY, JUNE 13 , 19971 AT 4:00 P.M. AT THE SOUTH PRECINCT LOCATED AT 3400 S CEDAR STREET. THIS IS THE THIRD IN A SERIES OF MEETINGS TO REVIEW THE MELLING INCIDENT. AT THIS MEETING THE BOARD WILL VIEW VIDEOTAPE OF THIS INCIDENT FROM LOCAL TELEVISION STATIONS AS WELL AS UNION FOOTAGE AS AVAILABLE. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONhRS SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES June 11, 1997 -!V E D r '`' ± V Members Present: Others Present: i,�:,L:,0 CITY CLERi� Commissioner James Person, Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief of Police Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner David Maxsam Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Armida Valdez Mike Parker, Teamsters #580 Commissioner Willard Walker Joan Sheldon, 726 Seymour Charlene Deber, 2711 Pleasant Grove Guests: Lt. Joel Maatman, FOP Supervisor's Union Captain Rick Cook Leroy McKnight, UAW Glenn Freeman, 419 S. Washington Leon Hilton, UAW #2256 CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 5:05 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. Commissioner Person introduced Captain Rick Cook who narrated the Mobile Field Force Training film from Dade County Florida and the footage of the Melling incident shot by the Lansing Police Department. MOBILE FIELD FORCE TRAINING VIDEO Captain Cook stated this video was obtained from Dade County, Florida. They developed the training program after the demonstrations and civil disorder following the riots in Miami, Florida in the late 70's, early 80's. This type of training quickly spread across the country and was introduced into the State of Michigan in 1990/91 and Lansing was the first department to adopt the training in Michigan. Officers from Dade County certified officers from the Lansing Police Department to instruct Mobile Field Force Operations. Everyone in the surrounding area has adopted this type of training so that if there is a problem trained officers from the surrounding area can be called to assist. Captain Cook stated this type of program has been used at a couple of KKK and Michigan Militia rallies in Lansing and has been successful. After the video was played, Commissioner Walker questioned the site of the Command Post. Captain Cook stated the location was dependent upon the individual situation. He then questioned would the decision to have used tear gas been issued from the command center or somewhere else. Captain Cook stated the Mobile Field Force Lieutenant made the decision to use the tear gas at the Melling site. Mr. McKnight questioned the copyright date of the training film and whether or not there was a newer version. Captain Cook guessed it was from the early 80's and was unaware if there was a newer training film. When asked by Mr. Parker, Captain Cook stated Lieutenant Joel Maatman was the Mobile Field Force Commander on May 29, 1997. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 11, 1997 Page 2 LPD FOOTAGE OF THE MELLING INCIDENT ON MAY 29, 1997 Captain Cook ran the videotape. He stated there was one camera person for the Lansing Police Department and this was the only footage LPD took of the incident. There was considerable discussion regarding at what point the order was given for the crowd to disperse. Captain Cook explained the history of the events leading to this demonstration. About 90 days ago when the UAW felt Melling management was bringing in replacement workers, minor problems began (i.e. MDOP's). During the first of March these incident began escalating at a rapid pace, and officers were assigned at the plant every morning at 7:30 a.m. to get workers in and again at 5:00 p.m. to get workers out. Over the past three months these escorts became more and more difficult. Captain Cook explained that in the everyday arena, officers are called by residents and business owners when people trespass in their houses, yards, and/or buildings. Officers confront the individuals; they're asked to leave; and warned that if they don't leave they'll be arrested. He stated the arena at Melling was different, there were usually five to six officers that responded to about 20 people blocking the entrance and exit gates. Police officers asked these individuals to move because they were in violation of the law. The Department has been patient, but strikers have been less than compliant. He stated in the normal arena, the individuals would have been arrested. He stated eventually the individuals would move (10-20 minutes later). He stated picketers wanted to do things on their timetable. On May 15, 1997, another rally was held. Approximately 22 police officers responded, went into the crowd and asked people to move. At one point, a police sergeant was pushed and the crowd became more belligerent. Union officials were instrumental in calming the crowd. That night it took officers about an hour to get the worker's vehicles out of the gates. Captain Cook stated he felt very uncomfortable in that arena because police officers were outnumbered 10 to 1. They were in no position to affect any arrest. After that incident, they met with union officials and they acknowledged they were unable to control everyone in the crowd. When the rally was announced for May 29, 1997, at 4:00 p.m., and that the crowd was expected to be between 200-300 people. He notified Melling management that he would be unable to get his workers out by 5:00 p.m. Additional officers were mobilized. When they arrived on the scene Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman met with union officials who had a red car hauler blocking the Melling driveway. At 4:30 p.m. union officials were asked to move the vehicle because it was illegally blocking the gate. People were instructed to get out of the roadway. Union officials said it would take them a while, but they would move. Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman returned at 5:00 p.m. and spoke with Mr. Legg about getting the truck and people moving. About 5:15/5:20 the driver of the truck started it, but picketers ran in front of the truck, began letting air out of the tires, and shoved a log behind the rear wheels so the vehicle couldn't move. The truck was finally moved around 6:00 p.m. and some of the buses began leaving, but there was still a group of about 150 people. Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman continued with verbal request to leave the roadway and clear the gate area. Union officials assured LPD command the people would leave. Nothing happened. Around 6:15 p.m., Captain Cook and Lieutenant Maatman returned again asking people to move. At 6:40 p.m. the goal was to bring officers in for a show of force and intimidation. Captain Cook stated he just Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 11, 1997 Page 3 wanted the people to move as they'd been asked to do, he did not want a confrontation. When the officers arrived, the crowd became more excited. Union officials wanted Captain Cook to bring the officers in to split the crowd (similarly as on May 15). Captain Cook did not feel he had enough officers for this maneuver. When the crowd did not move, he went back to the police vehicle and announced over the public address system the official statement about the use of tear gas and ordered officers to put on their gas masks. They dispensed six canisters of gas and took control of the road and the gate. Workers exited around 7:00. There was discussion about the banging of officer's night sticks on their protective shields as well as the picket sign (with 6' sticks) being banged on the roadway and sidewalks. Commissioner Valdez and Ms. Deber questioned why fliers were not disseminated in the neighborhood before the tear gas was used. Captain Cook stated fliers had been printed, but their intent was not to use tear gas, things escalated quickly and there was not enough time to retreat and distribute fliers. He felt picketers were reasonable people and would have dispersed after two and a half hours of asking them to move. They did not. Commissioner Valdez questioned the affect of the gas on strikers and residents. He explained the chemical agents used by the department are introduced as soft round balls, filled with a smokey propellant and tear gas. The chemical agents are designed to last for about 10 to 15 minutes with no ill effects as evidenced by the picketers return to the police line about 10-15 minutes after the tear gas was used. Commissioner Canady referenced the rally scheduled for tomorrow and questioned whether or not fliers would be distributed throughout the neighborhood. Chief Boles stated they have had limited discussion with the UAW and they have assured us their rally tomorrow will not last past 5:00 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.. At 2:00 p.m., neighborhood streets will be barricaded by the Transportation Department. The police department will control the access into the neighborhood. Residents/visitors will have access into the neighborhood. Alternate parking arrangements have been made and no vehicles will be allowed to park on the streets. Union officials have assigned marshals to accompany each police officer at each barricaded traffic point. Maps of the area indicating the barricade points will be faxed to union officials on Thursday morning. At this time, there is no intent to use chemical agents. He stated after the incident on May 29, 1997, fliers were distributed throughout the neighborhood apologizing to residents and visitors who were affected by the tear gas. Additionally, the flier advises residents and visitors that there is a potential for the future use of gas at any demonstration at the plant when large numbers of officers are seen in the area. Chief Boles stated the demonstrations were initially between Melling and the UAW, but the focus has changed and the police are now in the middle of the situation. He stated the decision to use Mobile Field Force was made in his office prior to the rally on May 29, 1997. This decision was based on the previous incidents at the plant, information received about the number of picketers expected, officer's training, and available tactics. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 11, 1997 Page 4 Commissioner Maxsam questioned the legal parameters. Mr. Jordan stated officers have a legal obligation to permit ingress and egress. We have no legal authority to make Melling management cooperate with the union. He stated strikers were informed much earlier than May 29, 1997, of the City Ordinance which does not allow them to block Melling's entrance or the roadway. They chose to block the entrance. PLANS FOR THE FRIDAY, JUKE 13, 1997, MEETING Commissioner Person stated the videotape taken by the union has not been received. Mr. McKnight stated he will try to have the tape available on Friday for the Board's review. Commissioner Person also questioned where we are in getting the footage from TV6 & TV10. Chief Boles stated neither are willing to release their raw footage, but both are willing to show us what was aired. He stated TV 10 also declined to have Mr. Dawson available. Mr. Parker stated he went into the stations and viewed their raw footage and suggested Board members could take that route if the goal was just to view the footage. It was questionable whether or not they could accommodate 8-10 people from the Board and they agreed to split in smaller groups if necessary. Commissioner Person volunteered to call the stations to see if arrangements could be made. The Board questioned whether or not a subpoena would be issued. Mr. Jordan stated it was possible, but he questioned how long that could get tied up in the legal system. He suggested the Board ask to view the tapes at the station. Commissioner Person asked to have Officer Loren Glasscock, the Department's Public Information Officer, present at the next meeting. He stated Officer Glasscock has viewed the footage from TV6 &TV 10. Additionally, he has had conversations with Phil Dawson. Mr. McKnight questioned whether or not maps of the area could be available at the next meeting so the Board might get some perspective of the vantage points of each video cameraman as well as see the overall layout of the area. It was also suggested that Board members who were unfamiliar with the area, visit the area. Mr. McKnight questioned whether or not police reports from May 29, 1997, were available for release. Chief Boles stated the information given to the Board tonight was confidential, but he could file an FOIA request for the reports. He also informed him that certain information (i.e. names, addresses, phone numbers, etc..) would be deleted from reports released to the public. Mr. Freeman questioned whether or not Margarita Bauza would be questioned by this Board. Commissioner Person stated she is aware of these meetings and certainly welcomed to attend. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:02 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE 10 A" 1 5 LANISING CITY CLERK THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS WILL HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON WEDNESDAY , JUNE 11 , 1997 ,p AT 5 :00 P.M. IN THE SECOND FLOOR CLASSROOM OF THE DOWNTOWN POLICE STATION. THIS IS THE SECOND IN A SERIES OF MEETINGS TO REVIEW THE MELL-ING INCIDENT. AT THIS MEETING THE BOARD WILL BEGIN VIEWING THE LPD VIDEOTAPE AND THE LCC MOBILE FIELD FORCE TRAINING TAPE. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HOLD A SPECIAL MEETING ON THURSDAY, l JUNE 5 , 1997 , AT 4:00 P.M. IN THE SECOND FLOOR CLASSROOM OF THE DOWNTOWN POLICE STATION. THE PURPOSE OF THIS MEETING AS CHARGED BY THE MAYOR IS TO RECEIVE INFORMATION AND PLAN A COURSE OF ACTION FOR ITS INVESTIGATION OF THE, MELLING INCIDENT. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES _ June 5, 1997 L"P,1 SIN,G CI I Y CLERIt Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Commissioner Deb Frederick Members of the Public Present: Commissioner David Maxsam Sandy Allen, City Council Commissioner Grady Porter Rick Lilly, City Council Commissioner Armida Valdez Ted Rahl, FOP Supervisor's Union Commissioner Willard Walker Leroy McKnight, UAW Leon Hilton, UAW Judy Hatcher, 2422 N. Wadsworth CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 4:10 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. PURPOSE OF THE MEETING Commissioner Person disseminated copies of a letter he had received from Mayor Hollister asking the Board of Police Commissioners to review the incident that occurred at the Melling Drop Forge Plant on Thursday, May 29, 1997. Attached to the Mayor's letter was a copy of a letter from Ruben Burks, Director of the Region 1-C UAW, calling for a public hearing by the Board of Police Commissioners. Also included, was a resolution from the City Council referring the Melling matter to the Committee of the Whole for further investigation. Commissioner Person indicated that today's meeting was a planning meeting to decide how best to accomplish its charge from the Mayor. He explained the Board's final report to the Mayor has been requested for July 1, 1997. Copies of each document mentioned above are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. PLAN OF ACTION The Board concluded that they would schedule meetings to accomplish the following tasks: • View videotapes from • Lansing Police Department - footage from May 29, 1997; • Lansing Community College - Mobile Field Force Training Film; • TV6 & TV 10 - Footage from May 29, 1997; and • UAW Videotape from May 29, 1997. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 5, 1997 Page 2 It was noted that LPD videotape was already on hand. The Board asked that Captain Cook be present to narrate the film. The LCC training tape will be obtained by Commissioner Person. Film from TV 10 has not yet been released and Jack Jordan was asked to look into the possibility of issuing a subpoena for the release of that tape. Mr. Leroy McKnight volunteered to bring a copy of the Union's tape to Ms. Gill for the Board's review. Mr. McKnight also suggested that the Board not only consider the incident on May 29, but also the incident where union members were taunted by Melling's attorney on May 15, 1997. He stated there are four reports on file for that incident. Sergeant Rahl suggested that if the Board considers that incident, he suggests that they consider all of the incidents which have occurred since the beginning of the strike in November 1996. He explained there are numerous police reports as well as reports from outside agencies. Commissioner Canady suggested the Department provide a report for the total cost on damage to police vehicles as well (slashed/punctured tires, etc). Commissioner Person suggested reports from the Central Garage also be obtained. The Board concurred with these recommendations. • Paperwork • Reports from LPD; • Copy of State Police Policy for Use of Tear Gas; • Letters from citizens (addressed to LPD, Mayor's Office, City Council); • Letter from Citizen's Police Academy; and • Newspaper Articles. Chief Boles will be asked to provide reports from LPD as well as a copy of the State Police's Policy for the use of tear gas. He will also be to provide copies of letters received by the Mayor's Office and the Police Department. City Councilmember Rick Lilly volunteered to share copies of letters received by City Council. Commissioners were asked to collect all newspaper articles regarding the incident. Additionally, anyone else who had any paperwork they felt pertinent to this review was encouraged to bring it. • Interviews • Police Officers on the scene; • Union members on the scene; • Melling's Attorney; • Melling Employees; • Residents who live in the affected neighborhood; • Medical Examiner or expert on the effects of tear gas; • The Storms who have filed a lawsuit against the City; • A representative from the City Attorney's Office; and • Reporters and Cameramen from LSJ, TV6 & TV 10. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 5, 1997 Page 3 Sergeant Ted Rahl was asked to notify the police officers of the meeting schedule. The two union officials present were asked to notify the UAW. Mr. Jordan was asked to contact the Melling attorney in regards to his willingness to participate in this review. Ms. Gill will send letters to those who have voiced complaints as well as the residents in the affected area. Chief Boles will be asked to contact the Medical Examiner. Mr. Jordan will assume responsibility for the Board's request to interview the Storms. Additionally, the Board requested to have someone from the City Attorney's Office present to discuss the union's rights in regards to picketing, legal space allowances for such a demonstration, and the legality of the use of tear gas. Mr. McKnight volunteered to provide from the internet information on the long-term effects of tear gas. Board of Police Commissioners Special Meetings Melling Incident Day Time Location Purpose Wednesday 5:00 p.m. 2nd Floor View Videotape from LPD & June 11, 1997 Classroom LCC Friday 4:00 p.m. South Precinct Continue Viewing Videotapes June 13, 1997 from TV6, TV10, & Union Tuesday 5:30 p.m. South Precinct Regular Meeting & June 17, 1997 Begin Interviews. Thursday 5:00 p.m. 2nd Floor Continue with Interviews June 19, 1997 Classroom Monday 5:00 p.m. South Precinct Continue with June 23, 1997 Interviews/Review Paperwork Thursday 5:00 p.m. South Precinct Continue Paperwork Review June 26, 1997 Friday 9:00 a.m. South Precinct Writing Day June 27, 1997 Saturday 9:00 a.m. - South Precinct Writing Day June 28, 1997 until Monday 9:00 a.m. - Chief's Office Finalize Report & Prepare for June 30, 1997 5:00 p.m. Signatures Board of Police Commissioners Special Meeting Minutes June 5, 1997 Page 4 WRITING TEAM Commissioner Person, Frederick, Walker, Farhat-Reed, and Porter volunteered to participate on the writing team. They will have the final report prepared and ready for signatures on June 30, 1997. Councilmember Lilly asked if the Board would submit a copy of their findings to the City Council at the same time as they submit it to the Mayor. Additionally, he wanted to assure this board that he did not believe in individual citizen review boards. He felt this Board of Police Commissioners is the review body set up by the city and he has confidence in this Board. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 4:55 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES May 20, 1997 ._ r Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief of Police Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner David Maxsam Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Grady Porter Attorney R. David Wilson Commissioner Armida Valdez Captain Don Dawson Lieutenant Joel Maatman Absent: Sergeant Ted Rahl Commissioner Willard Walker Officer Bruce Holliday Officer Dom Marcantonio Officer David Ellis Officer Stephen Klein Reverend Lester Stone CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 5:02 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were none. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the April 15, 1997, meeting were reviewed and approved. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Letter to Mayor Regarding the Board's Action at the Last Meeting Commissioner Person reviewed the letter outlining the Board's action. Additionally, he reviewed a copy of a letter addressed to Councilwoman Sandy Allen from Mayor Hollister. Copies of both letters are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Maxsam expressed some concern about the status of the two new positions: deputy chief and chief investigator. He stated both of these positions are critical in terms of the Board's revision of the complaint process. Chief Boles stated drafts of both position descriptions have been forwarded to the Public Safety Committee and the City Attorney's Office as there are many issues in addition to funding which need to be resolved. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 2 Vote on Policy Change Attorney R. David Wilson reiterated his concerns that all contractual agreements with the unions are and will continue to be recognized and that this Board will preserve the police officer's right to privacy with any policy changes. Both units are anxious to maintain the integrity of their collective bargaining agreements. Commissioner Person explained the intent of this policy changes was to ensure the Board was more sensitive to citizen complaints and to avoid the need for a separate Citizen Review Board. Commissioner Maxsam felt this action would help to restore the Board's credibility within the community and he felt a separate Citizen's Review Board would have a detrimental affect. He stated the two new positions (Chief Deputy and Chief Investigator) would assure a means of receiving and tracking complaints as well as assure the public that LPD is not the sole source of investigating complaints against members of the Lansing Police Department. Officer Rahl stated he felt this action was being taken to appease March For Justice. He noted that March For Justice did not represent the City of Lansing citizens, but rather on 1/1Oth of 1%. Commissioner Maxsam agreed March For Justice does not represent the entire minority population of Lansing and assured Officer Rahl that he has received the confidence of other segments of our population that this Board can perform the function of a Citizen's Review Board. They are anxious to see in writing how this Board will accomplish their goals in this regard. Attorney R. David Wilson feels the system currently in place is a good one which has been subjected to changes over the years by changes in the law, administration, and public sentiment. His concern continues to be that of the officer's privacy in matters of discipline. The system in place seeks to find the truth and has not bowed down to political pressure in the exercise of this process. Past events have shown us that the public's emotional outcry tends to override a given set of facts and/or circumstances. The public tends to believe over sensationalism of rumor rather than true fact. So he feels police officers will now be subjected to the public's misunderstanding of legal issues. The Unions also want to maintain the public's confidence. Commissioner Frederick stated she does not see the Unions as adversarial and feels the only way to succeed is to work together. Commissioner Person conducted a vote which was unanimous for the approval of policy revisions as submitted. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Detention Recommendations/Status Report: A copy of the status report was included in the packet. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Chief Boles stated renovations are underway in the basement and the third floor detention area. There have been many complications by not having access to the jail via the basement. The area has been chaotic for employees, but hopefully this will result in a much nicer facility. We are still within the project's budget and will keep the Board informed of it's progress. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 3 Mayor's Action Plan Regarding the Police-Community Relations Conference which will is scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 1997, it was noted that some of the language in the conference brochure was offensive. Attorney R. David Wilson stated that certain allegations/accusations have been made in the case of Mr. Swans' death and certain people within this city have proceeded as though they were true. No investigation has ever suggested there is any substance to these claims and that makes him mad. In particular, he questioned who was responsible for the printing of the conference brochure. He stated the wording is accusatory, not productive, and gives the public the wrong perception of our police officers. Commissioner Canady stated the March For Justice is also in opposition to the conference and he has been told they will not be attending. He stated initially the wording was more inflammatory than what was ultimately printed, a compromised version of the original language. It was noted that a committee headed by Director Art Walker was responsible for the publication of this conference brochure. Attorney R. David Wilson stated he is opposed to the City's endorsement of this publication. He stated the City's seal on such a publication of unsubstantiated accusations such as racism, harassment and brutality is an impetus. Lieutenant Maatman questioned and was informed of the make-up of the committee that agreed to this wording. He noted that no one from the FOP was asked to participate with this committee nor were they even invited to the conference. Officer Rahl stated the Union met with the Mayor in November of 1996, after hearing Reverend Stone say he had a letter from the Mayor with similar language. But the Mayor assured the Union that had never been said. Recently, the Union obtained a copy of that letter, dated October 7, 1996, which indicates that racism and brutality is in the police department (copies were distributed to commissioners). And again it is stated in the conference brochure with the Mayor's seal of approval. Attorney R. David Wilson stated when allegations of this sort are made they want to deal with them immediately. Commissioners stated they had no knowledge that such a letter had been sent. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed also stated she had received several telephone calls from neighborhood association/watch members who were also offended by the language and indicated they will not be attending the conference. She questioned if it was too late to have the brochures recalled, reprinted, and redistributed. It was noted there was less than two weeks until the conference. Officer Rahl stated officers are upset by the language and have been made to feel that they are not welcome to the conference nor a part of this healing process. Officer Holliday stated he saw this brochure in draft form and expressed his outrage, but it was published and disseminated anyway. The damage has been done and there is not enough time to resolve the hurt within his bargaining unit. All commissioners expressed their desire to have officers attend the conference and participate in the dialogue. Attorney R. David Wilson is upset that no one accepts responsibility for this kind of error and he feels this will be an unfair forum and no one will hear their voices now. He does not want the officers walking into a situation where they will not be trusted. Officer Rahl stated with the brochure and the Mayor's letter, the police are already convicted of being brutal why should anyone trust them? Commissioner Canady admitted he was guilty of not working with the FOP. He encouraged union representatives and police officers to attend the conference. He admitted in the past some actions have been dictated by Reverend Stone, but wants the community to know that we are now all working together. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 4 Commissioners urged the union representatives to encourage officers to attend the conference. Officer Marcantonio asked if there was an agenda established for the conference and if so, could the officers receive one so that they could be prepared for the discussion. Union officials appreciated the empathy from commissioners and invited them to join them in a statement of unity. It was decided that Officer Ted Rahl, Officer Bruce Holliday, Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed, and Commissioner Pete Canady would draft a letter to the Mayor indicating the Board's support of the Union's position regarding this conference brochure. Complaint Procedure/Brochure Chief Boles disseminated copies of the City Attorney's legal analysis of the complaint procedure. Commissioner Frederick stated her sub-committee is working with Director Art Walker and they are hopeful a combined procedure and brochure will be completed by July. Meeting with Editorial Staff of the Lansing State Journal This item was tabled until after the Community and Police Relations Conference on May 31, 1997. Letters to/from Ms. Williams. Regarding the second letter from Ms. Williams, the Board discussed the circumstances of this case. They understand that several meetings have occurred in an attempt to resolve this issue. They are also with the understanding that because of Ms. Williams' letter, the Ingham County Prosecutor's Office is making a policy revision regarding how they handle thefts by conversation. Commissioner Frederick volunteered to write the Board's response. PUBLIC COMMENTS Reverend Stone questioned whether or not the legal analysis of the complaint procedure/brochure was available to the public and wanted to know if he could have a copy. Commissioner Frederick responded that her sub-committee is working with Director Art Walker in the development of complaint procedure/brochure which will be more user friendly and much easier to understand. She understands the form under consideration is patterned after that of Detroit Police Department. Commissioner Maxsam stated the Human Relations Department is not putting the procedure/brochure together, the Board is and they are providing clerical and support staff. Reverend Stone requested a copy of the minutes to show where this Board has recorded minutes on this process. Additionally, Reverend Stone thinks it is an outrage how a local attorney's complaint received swifter action than would a complaint from any other citizen. It was noted the attorney knew how to file a complaint and he did call several board members to facilitate his complaint. There were no further comments from union representatives present. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 5 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No further comments. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file 14 letters and memorandums of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Complaints against the Department The Board reviewed and placed on file 10 complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of May, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. There was discussion regarding what information is taken into account when specific discipline is delineated. Mr. Wilson explained to commissioners the department has a legal responsibility to look at more than "just cause." Also considered is the employee's history with discipline, whether or not the employee has been disciplined for the same violation in the past, and the circumstances of the case. Departmental discipline is consistent with these concepts. Commissioner Canady felt that any commission of a violation/offense was a poor reflection on the whole department and was thankful for the good judgement and consideration given prior to the imposition of discipline. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS April 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of April, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. There was some discussion regarding position vacancies for detention officers and police officers. Chief Boles stated all detention officer vacancies should be filled by the end of the month. Of the seven police officer vacancies, three should be filled following the recent academy graduation. The additional positions should be filled prior to the end of the fiscal year. Front-end loading was approved by City Council and there will be additional officers hired in July to take the place of those retiring in the fall and early winter. There was discussion about the turnover in the 911 Center and the possibility of front-end loading in that unit as well. Mr. Wilson stated employees are having to work too much overtime. Chief Boles stated it is Administration's intent to consolidate LPD 911 and Fire Dispatch into one unit. That will increase our current 911 Center's position by five employees. He does not anticipate any impending retirements in the Center, but stated front-end loading could be accomplished as a budgetary item. He stated if the consolidation does not materialize then such funding would be considered. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 6 Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for the months of March and April, 1997. Copies of these reports are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for this reporting period. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. It was noted that 911 Center employees answered about 2,000 more calls this month as compared to this time last year. That is a 9.6% increase in calls for service. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Canady stated there have been no additions to our original eighteen million dollar request for funds. He recently had an opportunity to attend the Citizen's Police Academy and found that some of the equipment used by the DIVE Team was obsolete and he would like to see that equipment updated. Chief Boles stated the personal diving equipment is top notch, but admitted the boat does need to be replaced. Commissioner Maxsam is considering attending the next Citizen's Police Academy and questioned whether or not it would be held on Wednesday or Thursday nights. Chief Boles stated that schedule has not yet been finalized. Ms. Gill will have Sergeant Beiderwieden contact Commissioner Maxsam regarding the schedule. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated a meeting has been called for June 3, at 9:00 a.m. in room 100A in Old Central. Packets for review have been forwarded to Commissioner Porter and Farhat- Reed. Human Resources Committee Due to the absence of Commissioner Walker, this report was tabled until the next meeting. Incentives Committee Commissioner Valdez stated to all officers present they were doing a good job! She stated they have worked hard to prove themselves to the community and she knows they are doing their best each day. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - Distributed P.A.L. t-shirts to commissioners. Commissioner Frederick - No further comments. Commissioner Maxsam - No further comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 7 Commissioner Person - Asked if everyone had an opportunity to read Jim DeLine's letter to the editor in the Lansing State Journal. He felt the comments were most appropriate. And thanked him for his efforts. Commissioner Porter - No further comments. Commissioner Valdez - No further comments. Commissioner Walker - Absent. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Boles stated the City's box at the Oldsmobile Stadium is available to the Board of Police Commissioners on Monday, June 9, 1997. He stated commissioners and a guest were invited to attend. Game time is 7:05 p.m. Tickets will be at the "will call box." OTHER BUSINESS A retirement letter from Officer Mark Wilson was received and placed on file. Ms. Gill will prepare a retirement resolution from the Board. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum. A copy of a letter from Commissioner Person to the City Council regarding the position of our legal advisor. He offered the Board's support for leaving that position within the police department rather than moving that position to the City Attorney's office. A copy of that letter is attached as a permanent addendum. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES rIV`D May 20, 1997 ��!� _!+ ? I: 57 LANISENK.3 CITY CLERK Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief of Police Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner David Maxsam Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Grady Porter Attorney R. David Wilson Commissioner Armida Valdez Captain Don Dawson Lieutenant Joel Maatman Absent: Sergeant Ted Rahl Commissioner Willard Walker Officer Bruce Holliday Officer Dom Marcantonio Officer David Ellis Officer Stephen Klein Reverend Lester Stone CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 5:02 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were none. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the April 15, 1997, meeting were reviewed and approved. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Letter to Mayor Regarding the Board's Action at the Last Meeting Commissioner Person reviewed the letter outlining the Board's action. Additionally, he reviewed a copy of a letter addressed to Councilwoman Sandy Allen from Mayor Hollister. Copies of both letters are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Maxsam expressed some concern about the status of the two new positions: deputy chief and chief investigator. He stated both of these positions are critical in terms of the Board's revision of the complaint process. Chief Boles stated drafts of both position descriptions have been forwarded to the Public Safety Committee and the City Attorney's Office as there are many issues in addition to funding which need to be resolved. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 2 Vote on Policy Change Attorney R. David Wilson reiterated his concerns that all contractual agreements with the unions are and will continue to be recognized and that this Board will preserve the police officer's right to privacy with any policy changes. Both units are anxious to maintain the integrity of their collective bargaining agreements. Commissioner Person explained the intent of this policy changes was to ensure the Board was more sensitive to citizen complaints and to avoid the need for a separate Citizen Review Board. Commissioner Maxsam felt this action would help to restore the Board's credibility within the community and he felt a separate Citizen's Review Board would have a detrimental affect. He stated the two new positions (Chief Deputy and Chief Investigator) would assure a means of receiving and tracking complaints as well as assure the public that LPD is not the sole source of investigating complaints against members of the Lansing Police Department. Officer Rahl stated he felt this action was being taken to appease March For Justice. He noted that March For Justice did not represent the City of Lansing citizens, but rather on 1/10th of 1%. Commissioner Maxsam agreed March For Justice does not represent the entire minority population of Lansing and assured Officer Rahl that he has received the confidence of other segments of our population that this Board can perform the function of a Citizen's Review Board. They are anxious to see in writing how this Board will accomplish their goals in this regard. Attorney R. David Wilson feels the system currently in place is a good one which has been subjected to changes over the years by changes in the law, administration, and public sentiment. His concern continues to be that of the officer's privacy in matters of discipline. The system in place seeks to find the truth and has not bowed down to political pressure in the exercise of this process. Past events have shown us that the public's emotional outcry tends to override a given set of facts and/or circumstances. The public tends to believe over sensationalism of rumor rather than true fact. So he feels police officers will now be subjected to the public's misunderstanding of legal issues. The Unions also want to maintain the public's confidence. Commissioner Frederick stated she does not see the Unions as adversarial and feels the only way to succeed is to work together. Commissioner Person conducted a vote which was unanimous for the approval of policy revisions as submitted. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Detention Recommendations/Status Report: A copy of the status report was included in the packet. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Chief Boles stated renovations are underway in the basement and the third floor detention area. There have been many complications by not having access to the jail via the basement.' The area has been chaotic for employees, but hopefully this will result in a much nicer facility. We are still within the project's budget and will keep the Board informed of it's progress. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 3 Mayor's Action Plan Regarding the Police-Community Relations Conference which will is scheduled for Saturday, May 31, 1997, it was noted that some of the language in the conference brochure was offensive. Attorney R. David Wilson stated that certain allegations/accusations have been made in the case of Mr. Swans' death and certain people within this city have proceeded as though they were true. No investigation has ever suggested there is any substance to these claims and that makes him mad. In particular, he questioned who was responsible for the printing of the conference brochure. He stated the wording is accusatory, not productive, and gives the public the wrong perception of our police officers. Commissioner Canady stated the March For Justice is also in opposition to the conference and he has been told they will not be attending. He stated initially the wording was more inflammatory than what was ultimately printed, a compromised version of the original language. It was noted that a committee headed by Director Art Walker was responsible for the publication of this conference brochure. Attorney R. David Wilson stated he is opposed to the City's endorsement of this publication. He stated the City's seal on such a publication of unsubstantiated accusations such as racism, harassment and brutality is an impetus. Lieutenant Maatman questioned and was informed of the make-up of the committee that agreed to this wording. He noted that no one from the FOP was asked to participate with this committee nor were they even invited to the conference. Officer Rahl stated the Union met with the Mayor in November of 1996, after hearing Reverend Stone say he had a letter from the Mayor with similar language. But the Mayor assured the Union that had never been said. Recently, the Union obtained a copy of that letter, dated October 7, 1996, which indicates that racism and brutality is in the police department (copies were distributed to commissioners). And again it is stated in the conference brochure with the Mayor's seal of approval. Attorney R. David Wilson stated when allegations of this sort are made they want to deal with them immediately. Commissioners stated they had no knowledge that such a letter had been sent. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed also stated she had received several telephone calls from neighborhood association/watch members who were also offended by the language and indicated they will not be attending the conference. She questioned if it was too late to have the brochures recalled, reprinted, and redistributed. It was noted there was less than two weeks until the conference. Officer Rahl stated officers are upset by the language and have been made to feel that they are not welcome to the conference nor a part of this healing process. Officer Holliday stated he saw this brochure in draft form and expressed his outrage, but it was published and disseminated anyway. The damage has been done and there is not enough time to resolve the hurt within his bargaining unit. All commissioners expressed their desire to have officers attend the conference and participate in the dialogue. Attorney R. David Wilson is upset that no one accepts responsibility for this kind of error and he feels this will be an unfair forum and no one will hear their voices now. He does not want the officers walking into a situation where they will not be trusted. Officer Rahl stated with the brochure and the Mayor's letter, the police are already convicted of being brutal why should anyone trust them? Commissioner Canady admitted he was guilty of not working with the FOP. He encouraged union representatives and police officers to attend the conference. He admitted in the past some actions have been dictated by Reverend Stone, but wants the community to know that we are now all working together. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 4 Commissioners urged the union representatives to encourage officers to attend the conference. Officer Marcantonio asked if there was an agenda established for the conference and if so, could the officers receive one so that they could be prepared for the discussion. Union officials appreciated the empathy from commissioners and invited them to join them in a statement of unity. It was decided that Officer Ted Rahl, Officer Bruce Holliday, Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed, and Commissioner Pete Canady would draft a letter to the Mayor indicating the Board's support of the Union's position regarding this conference brochure. Complaint Procedure/Brochure Chief Boles disseminated copies of the City Attorney's legal analysis of the complaint procedure. Commissioner Frederick stated her sub-committee is working with Director Art Walker and they are hopeful a combined procedure and brochure will be completed by July. Meeting with Editorial Staff of the Lansing State Journal This item was tabled until after the Community and Police Relations Conference on May 31, 1997. Letters to/from Ms. Williams. Regarding the second letter from Ms. Williams, the Board discussed the circumstances of this case. They understand that several meetings have occurred in an attempt to resolve this issue. They are also with the understanding that because of Ms. Williams' letter, the Ingham County Prosecutor's Office is making a policy revision regarding how they handle thefts by conversation. Commissioner Frederick volunteered to write the Board's response. PUBLIC COMMENTS Reverend Stone questioned whether or not the legal analysis of the complaint procedure/brochure was available to the public and wanted to know if he could have a copy. Commissioner Frederick responded that her sub-committee is working with Director Art Walker in the development of complaint procedure/brochure which will be more user friendly and much easier to understand. She understands the form under consideration is patterned after that of Detroit Police Department. Commissioner Maxsam stated the Human Relations Department is not putting the procedure/brochure together, the Board is and they are providing clerical and support staff. Reverend Stone requested a copy of the minutes to show where this Board has recorded minutes on this process. Additionally, Reverend Stone thinks it is an outrage how a local attorney's complaint received swifter action than would a complaint from any other citizen. It was noted the attorney knew how to file a complaint and he did call several board members to facilitate his complaint. There were no further comments from union representatives present. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 5 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No further comments. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file 14 letters and memorandums of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Complaints against the Department The Board reviewed and placed on file 10 complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of May, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. There was discussion regarding what information is taken into account when specific discipline is delineated. Mr. Wilson explained to commissioners the department has a legal responsibility to look at more than "just cause." Also considered is the employee's history with discipline, whether or not the employee has been disciplined for the same violation in the past, and the circumstances of the case. Departmental discipline is consistent with these concepts. Commissioner Canady felt that any commission of a violation/offense was a poor reflection on the whole department and was thankful for the good judgement and consideration given prior to the imposition of discipline. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS April 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of April, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. There was some discussion regarding position vacancies for detention officers and police officers. Chief Boles stated all detention officer vacancies should be filled by the end of the month. Of the seven police officer vacancies, three should be filled following the recent academy graduation. The additional positions should be filled prior to the end of the fiscal year. Front-end loading was approved by City Council and there will be additional officers hired in July to take the place of those retiring in the fall and early winter. There was discussion about the turnover in the 911 Center and the possibility of front-end loading in that unit as well. Mr. Wilson stated employees are having to work too much overtime. Chief Boles stated it is Administration's intent to consolidate LPD 911 and Fire Dispatch into one unit. That will increase our current 911 Center's position by five employees. He does not anticipate any impending retirements in the Center, but stated front-end loading could be accomplished as a budgetary item. He stated if the consolidation does not materialize then such funding would be considered. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 6 Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for the months of March and April, 1997. Copies of these reports are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for this reporting period. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. It was noted that 911 Center employees answered about 2,000 more calls this month as compared to this time last year. That is a 9.6% increase in calls for service. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Canady stated there have been no additions to our original eighteen million dollar request for funds. He recently had an opportunity to attend the Citizen's Police Academy and found that some of the equipment used by the DIVE Team was obsolete and he would like to see that equipment updated. Chief Boles stated the personal diving equipment is top notch, but admitted the boat does need to be replaced. Commissioner Maxsam is considering attending the next Citizen's Police Academy and questioned whether or not it would be held on Wednesday or Thursday nights. Chief Boles stated that schedule has not yet been finalized. Ms. Gill will have Sergeant Beiderwieden contact Commissioner Maxsam regarding the schedule. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated a meeting has been called for June 3, at 9:00 a.m. in room 100A in Old Central. Packets for review have been forwarded to Commissioner Porter and Farhat- Reed. Human Resources Committee Due to the absence of Commissioner Walker, this report was tabled until the next meeting. Incentives Committee Commissioner Valdez stated to all officers present they were doing a good job! She stated they have worked hard to prove themselves to the community and she knows they are doing their best each day. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - Distributed P.A.L. t-shirts to commissioners. Commissioner Frederick - No further comments. Commissioner Maxsam - No further comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes May 20, 1997 Page 7 Commissioner Person - Asked if everyone had an opportunity to read Jim DeLine's letter to the editor in the Lansing State Journal. He felt the comments were most appropriate. 'And thanked him for his efforts. Commissioner Porter - No further comments. Commissioner Valdez - No further comments. Commissioner Walker - Absent. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Boles stated the City's box at the Oldsmobile Stadium is available to the Board of Police Commissioners on Monday, June 9, 1997. He stated commissioners and a guest were invited to attend. Game time is 7:05 p.m. Tickets will be at the "will call box." OTHER BUSINESS A retirement letter from Officer Mark Wilson was received and placed on file. Ms. Gill will prepare a retirement resolution from the Board. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum. A copy of a letter from Commissioner Person to the City Council regarding the position of our legal advisor. He offered the Board's support for leaving that position within the police department rather than moving that position to the City Attorney's office. A copy of that letter is attached as a permanent addendum. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS ,:,f. �r.-IVED MEETING MINUTES z ^„ r rr 0: 40 April 15, 1997 yo CI TY CLERK Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief of Police Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner David Maxsam Captain Don Dawson Commissioner Grady Porter Lt. Chris Magnus Absent: Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Pete Canady (E) Lloyd Teats Commissioner Armida Valdez (A) Lt. Joel Maatman, FOP Commissioner Willard Walker (E) CALL TO ORDER A quorum was established and Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 5:50 p.m. following a tour of the North Network Center by Gene Mellen. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Chief Boles informed the Board the City Attorney's legal opinion regarding the Open Meetings Act was received earlier this afternoon. Copies were disseminated to Board members. Paul McComb summarized the opinion for the Board. It was noted that the Board cannot "impose" discipline in an open session but it can "review" discipline taken by LPD in a "closed" session. Materials exempt from disclosure by state law may be "reviewed" in a closed session. The opinion also indicated that the Board should limit their "review" to those complaints or disciplinary actions which have been completed within LPD. It was moved and properly seconded that the Board establish a sub-committee to review all complaints with or without discipline. Commissioners Maxsam and Frederick volunteered to serve as members of this sub- committee. Commissioner Maxsam stated the City Charter places the primary responsibility on this Board to establish a complaint procedure and serve as the final authority in matters of discipline. He felt this Board needed to assume a more proactive role. He wanted it noted for the record, this Board is now prepared to assume its Charter responsibilities. He thanked and was appreciative of the input from the citizens, the City Council, and March For Justice. But, he stated the bottom line is that the responsibility lies with this Board and this Board accepts full responsibility for the establishment of a more proactive procedure. Commissioner Frederick felt that examination of all complaints (citizen and internal) would allow the Board to make more informed decisions regarding training issues. Mr. McComb stated at some point this Board will have to reject the appeal section of their current process. The Board directed Chief Boles and Mr. McComb to revise the Board's procedure based on the City Attorney's opinion. Commissioner Maxsam reminded everyone the critical incident notification needed to be included Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 15, 1997 Page 2 with these revisions. Also, that once the procedure is finalized a letter of notification to the unions regarding the direction of the Board will be needed. It was decided that a draft of the revised policy would be prepared for review at the next meeting Additionally Commissioner Person would be responsible for drafting a letter to the Mayor informing him of the Board's action to date. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the March 18, 1997, meeting were reviewed and approved. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Detention Status Report Captain Dawson reviewed the updated report. He explained that Commissioner Walker was the Board's representative on the "Study Committee." He stated the research on assessment and monitoring has been completed by the psychologist. The tentative date for completion of assessment screens, monitoring and training is July 1, 1997. Once finalized those will be presented to this Board for final review. Additionally, this Board recommended Medical First Responder (M.F.R.) training for Detention Officers and that training will be provided by the Fire Department at no cost to the Police Department. Captain Dawson also updated the Board on Workforce Diversification. Chief Boles stated he has directed Captain Perry-Buse to fill the seven existing vacancies in anticipation of summer vacations and October retirements. He expects front-end funding to be approved by City Council and the additional seven to eight minorities discussed in the report would still be hired throughout the second portion of 1997. Budget hearings for the police and fire departments are scheduled for April 26, 1997, at 9:00 a.m. Regarding the video system, Captain Dawson stated the consultant should begin work on the project by mid-April. A tentative completion date for this project is late summer of 1997. Any findings of the consultant will be shared with the Board for a recommendation. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Mayor's Action Plan A copy of the status report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The Board reviewed and placed it on file. Additionally, the City-Wide conference date has been changed to May 31, 1997, at River Front Place. Chief Boles stated the keynote speaker has not yet confirmed and the brochures are being finalized for distribution. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 15, 1997 Page 3 Complaint Brochure Commissioner Person stated now that they have the opinion from the City Attorney on the Open Meetings Act they know what direction in which to proceed. It was decided that their sub- committee would meet again after Mr. Walker has prepared a draft of a procedure for his Department. In particular, this Board needs to know if the funding for a Chief Investigator will be approved and what the reporting hierarchy will be. Chief Boles stated all new positions have been postponed until budget wrap-up in Mid-May. Commissioner Person will communicate with Mr. Walker and notify sub-committee members when a meeting has been scheduled Meetinja with Editorial Staff of the Lansing State Journal Commissioner Person stated the Board still needs to hold this meeting. He suggested that Board members begin to collect specific examples of their concerns. Commissioner Farhat-Reed stated her letter was finally printed in Saturday's Letters to the Editor column. Board members feel it is still necessary to meet with the editorial staff. Item to remain on agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTS Lloyd Teats Mr. Teats explained it is the public's perception that all Board meetings should be open to the public and leave the onus on the employee to request a closed session. He questioned the Board's recommendation of prisoner checks every 15 minutes. He recounted that he has been arrested before and no one checked him every 15 minutes. The Board explained that the 15 minute checks were for prisoners at high risk of suicide or those that had been restrained. Additionally he questioned why Detention personnel were allowed to arbitrarily set bond. He stated during his previous four arrest on the same charge, bond on three cases was $100 and on the fourth case it was $500. It was noted that the courts set the bond. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lt. Maatman stated this Board had promised to keep the union informed and to work with the union on any procedure changes. Commissioner Person stated now that they have the opinion from the City Attorney and better know their direction, a letter should be forthcoming within the next few days. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 15, 1997 Page 4 COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file six letters and memorandums of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Complaints against the Department The Board reviewed and placed on file 13 complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of March, 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Additionally, the Board reviewed two written complaints from citizens. (1) from Ms. Williams regarding the larceny of her vehicle by conversion; and (2) Mr. Clarke regarding a courtesy violation. Chief Boles stated the complaint of Mr. Clarke has been sustained and sanctions will be imposed. He stated this complaint has been resolved and Mr. Clarke has been notified. Both letters were accepted and placed on file. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Person will prepare a draft in response to Ms. Williams' letter. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS March 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of March 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board No report was submitted. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for March 1997. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee No Report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 15, 1997 Page 5 Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Maxsam withdrew as a member of this sub-committee. Commissioners Farhat- Reed and Frederick volunteered to serve with Commissioner Porter. This committee will be meeting prior to the September Awards Ceremony. Human Resources Committee No report. Incentives Committee Commissioner Person stated 21 applications have been completed and 3 applications are pending out of the total of 25. Chief Boles stated 30-40% of those have been from the police and fire departments. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady - Absent. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - Distributed two fliers: (1) a problem-solving seminar and (2) a city-wide watch coordinator's meeting. She encouraged everyone to attend. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Frederick - No additional comments. Commissioner Maxsam - No additional comments. Commissioner Person - Complimented Chief Boles for his article in the opinion section of the Lansing State Journal thanking the Neighborhood Associations for their recent appreciation reception for explorers, code compliance officers and police officers. Commissioner Porter - No additional comments. Commissioner Valdez - Absent. Commissioner Walker - Absent. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Boles had no additional comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes April 15, 1997 Page 6 OTHER BUSINESS Neighborhood Watch Monthly Report (February 1997) Report was submitted for informational purposes. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum. Vision Requirements for New Hires Chief Boles reviewed the policy as previously discussed by this Board in its final form. It was approved as submitted. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum. Dismissal of Civil Rights Complaint of Robert McKissic Mr. McComb reviewed the initial complaint, follow-up action of the police department, and dismissal. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Dismissal of Civil Rights Complaint of Ivan Cyars Mr. McComb reviewed the initial complaint, follow-up action of the police department, and dismissal. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m. The next meeting will be held at the South Precinct on Tuesday, May 20, 1997, at 5:30 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS ., , �E MEETING MINUTES { �' { a C 40,•` l l i r1 { J ri, J March 18, 1997 LANOI G CITY CLERK; Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman David Sinclair, A/Chief of Police Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Deb Frederick Commissioner David Maxsam Guest: Commissioner Grady Porter Detective John Hersman Commissioner Armida Valdez Commissioner Willard Walker Members of the Public: Sergeant Ted Rahl (FOP) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Person called the meeting to order at 3:37 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. He noted the change in meeting time was to accommodate the Board's attendance at the City's sesquicentennial celebration. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were none. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the regular meeting of February 18, 1997, and a combined meeting between the Board of Police Commissioners and Police Citizen's Relations Advisory Board meeting of February 25, 1997, were reviewed and approved. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Child Abuse Presentation: Detective John Hersman was present at the request of the Board. Detective Hersman disseminated copies of the protocol from the Ingham County Prosecutor's Office, Michigan Child Protection Laws, and photographs of actual child abuse cases. He stated in 1995, LPD had 466 reported cases of criminal sexual conduct and about 80% of those cases involved children. He reviewed who must report this type of crime (i.e. Child Protective Services, School Officials, Family Independence Agency, Hospitals, Healthcare workers, etc). When questioned by commissioners, Detective Hersman stated any citizen can report abuse to the Child Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes March 18, 1997 Page 2 Protective Services, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. He stated the reporting party may remain anonymous if he/she so chooses. There was some discussion about the prosecution of cases and how difficult that can sometimes be. Detective Hersman indicated there were several attorneys unwilling to take abuse cases because they can be so emotionally draining. He is confident that the reorganization at the Prosecutor's Office will allow for assignment of attorneys who are interested and willing to assume the prosecution of these cases. Board members thanked Detective Hersman for his presentation. Detention Recommendation Status Report: Assistant Chief Sinclair reviewed the report and indicated it was self-explanatory. Commissioner Walker stated in some instances the report was clear as to who maintained responsibility for the action and monitoring and in others it was not so clear. He questioned who comprised the "Study Committee" and whether or not any commissioner was or would be asked to be a member of that committee. He was concerned that this group may move forward with their assigned tasks and the Board would be left behind. Mr. McComb indicated Captain Dawson has been assigned the responsibility for implementing the Board's original recommendations for detention renovations and training. Captain Dawson provides this monthly status report to the Board. He stated Captain Dawson, Captain George, Lieutenant Magnus, and a private psychologist from the mental health field currently constituted the "Study Committee." He stated this committee is in the research mode and has met once with him and the attorney for the Municipal League to review the material from a litigation stand point. He stated the "Study Committee" will not begin meeting to discuss assessments and consultations until April, 1997. Commissioner Frederick noted it has been almost a year since the Board's recommendations were made. She stated the Board recommended an alternate method of restraint and asked for regular reports. She just wanted to know how things were progressing in this area. Commissioner Person stated this Board made recommendations and delegated implementation to LPD staff. He also acknowledged this Board has a responsibility to monitor that progress. It was concluded that Commissioner Walker would contact Captain Dawson directly t�press the Board's concerns as well as membership on the "study committee." The Board also asked that Captain Dawson be invited to attend next month's meeting for a more in depth update on their recommendations. Mayor's Action Plan: Commissioner Canady stated he has attended several meetings with Mr. Art Walker in order to establish a date for a community meeting. He stated the date of May 17, 1997, was chosen but it was an item of controversy at last night's City Council meeting. Reverend Stone is not happy with this date, time or location. Additionally, the City Council members will be attending "Michigan Marches into the 21st Century Parade." Commissioner Canady stated the parade was discussed when selecting a date and Mr. Walker was aware of the conflict. Commissioner Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes March 18, 1997 Page 3 Walker questioned why the community meeting was scheduled. While it's original concept was Reverend Stone's, it is to be a meeting for the community sponsored by the City of Lansing. There is an expectation of 500 attendees and a meeting location had to be found with that capacity. There were questions about whether this was a community conference with speakers or a complaint forum. It was the general consensus of this Board that it should be a community conference and not duplicate the complaint forum at regular City Council meetings. Commissioner Maxsam questioned the reporting hierarchy for the new Chief Investigator's position (i.e. whether this person would report to Mr. Walker or the Board). He felt the candidate for this position should be autonomous. He stated this Chief Investigator should be making decision about who investigates cases (i.e. Internal Affairs, Human Relations, or the Chief Investigator) and providing regular reports back to this Board with recommendations. Commissioner Frederick stated a job description for this position has been drafted, but will require City Council's approval for position funding. Commissioner Person stated his sub-committee will be reviewing policies and procedures regarding citizen contacts on Friday at 3:00 p.m. He stated members of this sub-committee are Commissioners Valdez, Canady, Frederick and Maxsam. Commissioner Maxsam asked to be excused from this meeting. Commissioner Person indicated their findings would be due April 7, 1997. Complaint Brochure: Commissioner Walker questioned whether or not our Board was in conflict with the Human Relations Department regarding the review of the complaint procedure. Commissioner Frederick explained that the Human Relations Department is looking at ways to streamline the initial complaint process (i.e. how complaints are received from individuals). Additionally, they are looking at a standardized form, who received them once completed, who routes them to the proper department/agency for investigation, and who monitors this process. She also wants to ensure that this process includes easy ways for citizens to provide positive feedback as well. The Board of Police Commissioners is reviewing the internal complaint process of the Police Department. She stated there should be a more concrete example of the complaint form and process by the next meeting. She also felt some sort of annual reporting to the citizen's should be in order to let the public know what the process has netted. Item to remain on agenda for the next meeting. PUBLIC COMMENTS There were no members of the public present for comment. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes March 18, 1997 Page 4 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sergeant Ted Rahl stated he was encouraged by Commissioners' comments today. He promised the support of the FOP Supervisor's Union for any public comments from the Board indicating that most of the recommendations made by Reverend Stone are already being done by LPD and this Board. He noted that Reverend Stone will not agree to meet with the union. Secondly, he stated the FOP Supervisor's Union has filed a grievance regarding a directive that officers are to talk to the media. He stated most FOP members are opposed to this action because the media is usually slanted to the wrong side of issues, mostly because it sells their news product. He stated officers are in media training now. He feels the grievance will be withdrawn because this issue is not contractual. Commissioner Farhat-Reed stated she was absent from the last meeting but read in the minutes that the FOP did not feel they had the support of the Board. She wanted Sergeant Rahl and all of the officers to know that she as well as all of the other Board members support them. Sergeant Rahl extended his offer for commissioners to ride-along with officers so that they can see first-hand what it is they do. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file nine letters and memorandums of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Of note, Commissioner Farhat-Reed stated she has been faxing the letter on page 31 to the Lansing State Journal for several weeks now. She stated Mr. Schneider's column on February 25, 1997, only printed half truths. Most commissioners felt Lansing State Journal did not do a good job at investigative reporting. They felt reporters listen to the loudest voices and usually only gets one side to a story. Commissioner Walker suggested this Board meet with the editorial board of the Lansing State Journal to discuss this and other issues. They concluded they would like to meet with Chief Boles and Public Information Officer Loren Glasscock to determine an agenda before such a meeting with the editorial board of the Lansing State Journal was scheduled. Complaints against the Department The Board reviewed and placed on file a summary of the 16 complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of February, 1997. Copies are. attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Maxsam asked that incidents such as IA96122 (fatal shooting) include more detailed information on the report to commissioners. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes March 18, 1997 Page 5 DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS February, 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of February 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Person stated he has had an opportunity to see the new bar coding system in the Quartermaster's Unit. He wished to pass along some concerns about the need for a more secure storage area. Apparently, a safe is needed for this unit but it did not get is this fiscal year's budget. Commissioner Canady questioned why there was no report submitted for Team Area 25 in January and February 1997. Chief Sinclair hypothesized that it may be due to scheduled vacation of the sergeant. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for January and February, 1997. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. It was noted that basement accidents should go down as there will be no parking in the basement while repairs are underway. Communications Department Report The committee received and placed on file the report for the month of February, 1997. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. COMMITTEE REPORTS Committee Reports were tabled until the next meeting. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner comments were tabled until the next meeting. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT The administrative report was tabled until the next meeting. OTHER BUSINESS Retirement of Lieutenant Underhill: Commissioner Person announced that Lieutenant Underhill had retired from LPD and is now the Chief of Police in Grand Ledge. A copy of his retirement letter is attached to the original Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes March 18, 1997 Page 6 minutes as a permanent addendum. PAL Sponsorship: Commissioner Canady stated two checks were still needed from the Board. Commissioner Person has been out of town and turned his in today. Commissioner Maxsam will mail his this week. Other business listed on the agenda was tabled until the next meeting. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 5:22 p.m. f NOTICE CHANGE IN MEETING TIME & LOCATION THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS HAVE RESCHEDULED THEIR REGULAR MEETING TO TUESDAY, MARCH 18, 19971 AT 3: 30 P. M . IN THE SECOND FLOOR CLASSROOM OF THE LANSING POLICE DEPARTMENT. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS . �� MEETING MINUTES 10 February 18, 1997 j r,J c1 i'r CLERK Members Present: Others Present: Commissioner Lee Canady, Vice-Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief of Police Commissioner Deb Frederick Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner David Maxsam Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Grady Porter Commissioner Armida Valdez Guests: Commissioner Willard Walker Janet Strahan, C.A.R.E. Lt. Chris Magnus, Detention Absent: Members of the Public Present: Commissioner James Person, Chairman (E) Lt. Joel Maatman, FOP (Sups) Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed (E) Sgt. Ted Rahl, FOP (Sups) Lloyd Teets CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady called the meeting to order at 5:40 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. He welcomed and thanked members of the public for attending the meeting. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions to the agenda. MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes from the January 21, 1997, meeting were reviewed and approved with a revision on page 2. Commissioner Walker stated what he intended to say was the first priority of the Board was to look at ways the Board could become involved in the complaint process and at some point in the future also be involved in the imposition of discipline. So the second sentence in the first paragraph under "unfinished business" should be changed to read, "The Board's first priority is to look at ways to become involved in the complaint process and at some point in the future be involved in the imposition of discipline." With this correction, the minutes were approved. An amended copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. The minutes from the Special Meeting on February 11, 1997, were reviewed and approved as submitted. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 18, 1997 Page 2 UNFINISHED BUSINESS C.A.R.E. Presentation Ms. Janet Strahan thanked the Board for their interest in C.A.R.E. (Capital Area Response Effort) and tonight's invitation. She explained that C.A.R.E. currently has 54 volunteers who support and provide a valuable resource of information to victims of domestic violence. She explained how C.A.R.E. was formed, its funding source, the training program, and their goals. She supplied domestic violence statistics for 1995 as compared to those of 1994. She discussed the percentage of cases LPD request C.A.R.E. volunteers. She attends roll call regularly to ensure that officers know of the services available. She also provides an internal quality control audit to ensure arrests are made and if not, why and if a C.A.R.E. volunteer should have been called out on some cases they're not called on. She explained the criteria for volunteers and encouraged Board members to contact her with the name(s) of any qualified volunteer who may be interested in this service. Commissioner Canady thanked her for the presentation and offered the Board's help in whatever way they could be of assistance. Letter to Mr. Eckhart & Mr. Flannag_an A copy of the letter sent to Mr. Eckhart& Mr. Flannagan regarding Dialogue Circles is attached as a permanent addendum to the minutes. It was noted that the Board met with these men on February 11, 1997, in a special meeting (minutes approved above). Letter to Mr. Kennon A copy of the letter sent to Mr. Kennon inviting his committee (Mayor's Police and Community Relations Advisory Committee - PCRAC) to meet with this Board is attached as a permanent addendum to these minutes. Mr. Kennon offered this Board a meeting time of 5:30 p.m. for any day of the week of February 24. After discussion, the Board agreed to meet on Tuesday, February 25, 1997, at 5:30 in the Second Floor Classroom of the Lansing Police Department. Ms. Gill will notify Mr. Kennon of the scheduled time and post the appropriate notices. Individual meeting notices will be mailed as a courtesy. Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick spoke with Mr. Walker regarding the status of the City's staff in the complaint process. She discussed the meeting between this Board and the PCRAC to discuss the complaint process. Mr. Walker received direction from the Mayor to draft a complaint procedure. She questioned if the City's staff would draft the procedure and then have this Board perform a review. If so, she feels this is premature as the two committees who have been asked to work on this project have not yet met to discuss it. She disagreed with the City's action. Chief Boles stated the intent was to just get something on paper, as a starting point for the Boards. He will refer the Board's feelings to Mr. Walker to ensure clarity. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 18, 1997 Page 3 Mayor's Action Plan on Community - Police Relations An updated status report was provided by Chief Boles. A copy is attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. There was no further discussion, with the exception of the complaint procedure/brochure as discussed above. Detention Recommendations - Status Report Lt. Chris Magnus stated progress has been made on several aspects of the renovation projects (i.e. the new restraint area, OUIL arraignment area, lighting improvements). He stated bids have been higher than we were initially led to believe. He stated there is a lot of technology available and the choices have become more complex than expected. He stated this makes writing the specifications more difficult and more information is needed on the technology available to us. He stated technology is available to record what goes on in more than just the booking and restraint areas. He stated it would be beneficial to have monitoring for solitary too. He briefly discussed the new digital technology whereby everything could be monitored 24 hours per day, seven days per week. He said this was costly and what level of loss of quality were we willing to sacrifice. He suggested he be allowed to work with a media consultant, a video architect if you will, to look at available options to design a system we want, thereby putting us in a better position to determine how much money we are willing to spend, and also satisfying the Board's recommendations. He feels the consultant will only add another month or two to the project and cost between $10,000 and $15,000. There were questions about the budget and whether or not another request would have to be made to City Council for additional funding. Chief Boles stated the Council has already transferred $70,000 into that account and hopefully one or more transfers would cover the total package. All of the renovations recommended by this Board were originally unappropriated, but he does not feel the added expenses will be a problem. It was the consensus of the Board that the consultant should be used and that a system should be chosen that could be expanded if needed in the future. The Board thanked Lt. Magnus for this update. Detention Recommendation- Status Report to remain an agenda item at the next meeting. PUBLIC COMMENTS Mr. Teets Mr. Teets gave a historical perspective of his experience in attending Board meetings in the past as well as expressed his dismay with the City Council for not bringing closure to the March For Justice issues. He feels this Board is responsible for the havoc in the community by not fulling their duties and responsibilities as outlined in the City Charter. He stated there is a festering wound in the community which he believes will be here for another three to five years. The Board thanked Mr. Teets for his comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 18, 1997 Page 4 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sergeant Ted Rahl Sergeant Rahl spoke on behalf of the FOP Supervisors Union. He state the Union was displeased that no unit of government, including this Board, tried to balance current discussions regarding racial tension in the community and in the police department. He stated officers have been discouraged by seeing members of this Board photographed with members of the March For Justice as well as other political groups. And while they believe this to be part of the democratic process, feels the same attention should have been given to the officers. He encouraged Board members to talk to the officers, do ride alongs, go to roll call, and talk and support our officers. He reminded the Board that diversity training has been part of the training academy since the early '70's and members of his union initiated dialogue circles long before Reverend Stone formed March For Justice. He stated his fellow officers just wanted the Board to listen to their side and not hastily make decisions after only hearing one side of an issue. He also informed the Board that the Union contract will not be re-opened to discuss drug testing. He suggested the proper way to address any contractual concerns would be express them to Mayor Hollister so they could be brought to the bargaining table in July of 1998. He stated Union members remain open to discussion about how to improve their performance and fairly represent this community. The Union and their attorney invites open discussion with this Board in any area not governed by the collective bargaining agreement. Sgt. Rahl stated the FOP Supervisor's Union has offered to have a dialogue circle with Reverend Stone but they have not been taken up on the offer. Lt. Maatman stated Sgt. Rahl was somewhat modest regarding his actions. Lt. Maatman stated it was Sgt. Ted Rahl who initiated dialogue circles and felt he should be commended for his actions. Board members stated they have done ride-alongs in the past and at least one Board member has attended the Citizen's Police Academy with more planned for the near future. They felt dialogue did not have to be closed with the Union. Commissioner Maxsam expressed to Sergeant Rahl that he wants to establish a working relationship with the union and is not trying to dictate or undermine the union, he's just wants to fulfill his duties under the City Charter. Commissioner Canady invited any officer(s) to attend the Board meetings. Commissioner Walker questioned whether or not new officers could be brought to a Board meeting and introduced. Chief Boles and Lt. Maatman will work on that possibility. Board members thanked Sgt. Rahl and Lt. Maatman for enlightening them. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 18, 1997 Page 5 Lt. Magnus invited Board members to visit the detention area. He stated detention officers are civilian employees and do not always feel they are part of the Department. They would welcome the opportunity to show you how they do their jobs. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file three letters of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Complaints against the Department The Board reviewed and placed on file complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of January 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Chief Boles was asked to provide follow-up on one case last month that appeared five or six times on the report. He stated this was a case that involved five or six officers. In regards to follow-up of case number IA-96-121, Chief Boles stated this was an improper use of a weapon complaint brought forth by another officer. The officer involved was disciplined and has sustained a fitness for duty psychological evaluation. Based on the outcome, the officer has now returned to duty. Commissioner Maxsam noted that more complaints were sustained on this month's report. DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS January 1997: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of January 1997. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Traffic Review Board This Board met a few days after the packets were mailed so their report will be included in the March packet. Communications Department Report No report was submitted. The Board questioned why reports are not routinely received for the Communications Department. Chief Boles will check into this and let the Board know the circumstances. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 18, 1997 Page 6 COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee It was noted that proposed budgets will soon be broadcast on Channel 28. Target budgets are lower than anticipated and its impact is unknown at this time. Chief Boles stated we have until June 30, 1997, to encumber the funds earmarked for detention renovations and its video system. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter stated the awards ceremonies will be held sometime in September. Commissioner Frederick stated there were a number of officers doing an excellent job with the PPO Program. Chief Boles stated any citizen, any officer, or any committee or Board could submit nominations to the Awards and Citations Committee for consideration. Last month Commissioner Porter questioned whether or not the letters of appreciation could be forwarded to the committee for consideration. Chief Boles asked commissioners to bring to his attention any letter received they felt would be worthy of commendation and he would ensure it got to the Committee for consideration. Human Resources Committee Commissioner Walker stated Sgt. Rahl highlighted an essential area that must be resolved prior to the Board further discussing its powers. He acknowledged that officers are feeling pressure and are searching for who they view as their supporters. He feels it is the Board's responsibility to look at ways to commend officers. He acknowledged and fully understands that there is little, if any, chance to open the contract to discuss some of the Board's proposals. He feels it is imperative to continue discussion with the Union in terms of the direction the Board should go. He wants to openly discuss any proposal this Board makes with the Union and have it prepared when the contract comes up for negotiation. Commissioner Walker stated he has met with Captain Helen Perry-Buse a couple of times this month to receive information regarding where the department is and where it is going in the area of recruitment and retention as well as the total number of minorities. They have looked at projected retirements and the ratios or representation of personnel. He stated he will continue to hold personnel meetings and make any information received available to other Board members. Incentives Committee Commissioner Valdez had no report. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 18, 1997 Page 7 COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Maxsam Commissioner Maxsam stated he had been attending Public Safety Committee meetings on Saturdays. He finds them stimulating. He suggested that other Board members attend so that their position be known. Commissioner Maxsam stated several members of the public were disturbed by the weight of seniority in the promotional process. Chief Boles stated that is part of their contract. Commissioner Maxsam suggested members of the public is unaware of what this Board is working on. He stated the next meeting will be held on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. on the loth Floor of City Hall in Council Chambers. Commissioner Canady Commissioner Canady Agreed with Commissioner Maxsam that Board members should try to attend those Saturday meetings. He feels they have good representation from the community and have been very informative. Commissioner Farhat-Reed Absent. Commissioner Frederick Commissioner Frederick also has been attending some of the Saturday meetings. She expressed concern that some members of the public were verbally attacking people and she felt this makes people unwilling to defend themselves. She felt that a lot of people who are willing to have constructive dialogue are staying away from the meetings for fear of public attacks. Commissioner Person Absent. Commissioner Porter No additional comments. Commissioner Valdez No additional comments. Commissioner Walker Commissioner Walker expressed concern about hearing City Council Member, Paul Novak report on the findings of their investigation into the Swans' death. He stated when this Board reviewed the case the Board was under the impression that their findings were not open for Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes February 18, 1997 Page 8 public discussion due to the current investigation. Chief Boles stated the advice this Board received was to be cautious and sometimes elected officials do not always heed the advice of the employees they hire to provide it. He stated that some information was available and was made public a year ago. Commissioner Walker questioned why if the City Council could publicly disclose their findings, the Board could not a year ago. He stated non-disclosure gave the impression to the public that the Board was withholding information. Commissioner Canady stated he felt that some of Mr. Novak's remarks were retaliatory because he is not running for another term. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Boles stated there will be a Child Abuse presentation at the March meeting. The K-9 portion of the Citizen's Police Academy is scheduled for May 7, 1997, from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the South Precinct. Commissioners Walker, Valdez, and Canady asked Ms. Gill to make their reservations to attend. Chief Boles stated we are still awaiting an opinion from the City Attorney's Officer regarding the Open Meetings Act and the Board's proposal regarding their powers prior to scheduling a meeting with the union. Chief Boles commended officers of the South Precinct, especially Lt. Maatman and Sgt. Murray, for their enforcement actions at high accident intersections. It was good to see them get credit for a job-well-done on a local TV station recently. Chief Boles encouraged members of this Board to make an effort to network with officers. OTHER BUSINESS PAL Sponsorship Ms. Gill reminded everyone who had not done so to get their checks in for sponsorship. North Precinct Commissioner Porter questioned where we were with a North Precinct Facility. Chief Boles stated Captain Rick Cook has looked at two or three potential sites since the last board meeting. He will continue reviewing potential sites with a developer to ensure sufficient square footage and any renovation costs. He is hopeful that another proposal will be presented to City Council before the end of March. He encouraged the Board's support in this regard. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS �' ��!I Ej MEETING MINUTES January 21, 1997 ` '' 3 ,i` 0 0 9 Members Present: Others Present: Lr�i��SIYG CITY CLERK Commissioner Lee Canady, Chairman Jerry Boles, Chief of Police Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Vicky Gill, Recording Secretary Commissioner Deb Frederick Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner David Maxsam Commissioner Grady Porter Members of the Public Present: Commissioner Armida Valdez Lt. Joel Maatman Commissioner Willard Walker Officer David Ellis Officer Steve Relyea Absent: Darnell Oldham Commissioner James Person (E) CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Canady, in the absence of Commissioner Person, called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. after having established a quorum to conduct business. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Commissioner Frederick asked that two items be added for discussion: (1) She suggested the Board of Police Commissioners meet with the Mayor's Police and Community Relations Committee to discuss common issues and resolutions. She suggested that the Board consider meeting on a regular basis (i.e. annually, semi-annually, or quarterly). It was the consensus of the Board that the initial meeting would be of the entire Board and the frequency of meetings would be determined after the initial meeting. Ms. Gill to draft a letter to Mr. Kennon requesting a combined meeting date and time. The Board also concluded they would also like to have an informal meeting arranged with Mr. Luther Flanagan and Mr. Ed Eckhart. Ms. Gill to draft a letter to Mr. Flanagan and Mr. Eckhart requesting a meeting_ The Board suggested both meetings should occur on the same date if possible. (2) Commissioner Frederick requested someone from the CARE Team come in an explain their role in Domestic Violence. Chief Boles announced a new coordinator, Janet Strahan, has been named. Chief Boles will ask Ms. Strahan to make a short presentation at the next meeting on the CARE Team. Commissioner Walker questioned the Department's role in child abuse cases. He recently had the opportunity to observe first-hand at a local emergency room, four possible cases of child abuse. He witnessed the responsible adults become upset when medical personnel had to report the abuse. He questioned how the departments deals with those types of complaints. He wished to learn more about child abuse cases. Chief Boles stated he will assign someone to provide a short presentation at the March meeting Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes (Amended Copy) January 21, 1997 Page 2 MINUTES APPROVAL Minutes of the December 17, 1996, meeting were reviewed and approved with minor revisions. Commissioner Maxsam asked to delete the word "hostage" from page 1. The point he was trying to make was a North Precinct Building is an essential component of the community policing philosophy. On page 2, Officer Ted Rahl should be changed to, "Sergeant." A copy of the corrected minues is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Board Powers Commissioner Walker stated there have been several sub-committee meetings held over the past few months to discuss this matter. He stated point, the Board wants to The Board's first priority is to look at ways to become involved inthe complaint process and at some point in the future be involved in the imposition of disicipline. It is the Board's desire to develop procedures which will not violate any official documents already in existence (i.e. City Charter, Open Meetings Act, Union Contracts). He stated Chief Boles has drafted a memorandum to the City Attorney to address some of the Board's concerns regarding the Open Meetings Act. A copy of that memorandum is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Walker reviewed a copy of proposed procedures to accomplish their stated goals. He asked that other members of the Board review and make any recommendations for change. Mr. McComb stated this Board has often expressed a desire to change their current role and find some way to become more involved in citizen complaints. He stated the proposed procedures need to be presented to both FOP unions for their feedback and/or any alternative proposals. He stated when the Board is in receipt of a complaint, they must comply with the Open Meetings Act, but yet maintain confidentiality. He stated they have asked for the City Attorney's opinion regarding whether or not the Board can receive information on citizen complaints in closed sessions. Then only when a complaint has been sustained by the Board will it then be forwarded to the Internal Affairs Unit for initiation of the disciplinary process. It was the consensus of the Board the proposed procedure be accepted as presented. They asked that a formal invitation be extended to both of the FOP unions to enter into discussions with the Board. Chief Boles asked how they wished him to facilitate this meeting - through a sub-committee or the whole board? The consensus was with the whole Board. Chief Boles asked if it was to be part of a regular meeting or a special board meeting? The consensus was that it would require a special meeting. Chief Boles will make the proper notifications and arrange the special meeting with both FOP unions. Lt. Maatman requested copies of the proposals for the supervisor's and non-supervisor's unions. Chief Boles stated when he arranges the meetings he will prepare an agenda and copies of the proposals. Commissioner Canady was hopeful everyone could work together to accomplish common goals. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes (Amended Copy) January 21, 1997 Page 3 Drug & Alcohol Testing Commissioner Walker stated there is nothing new to report at this time. Commissioner Walker is hopeful to have a prepared report for the next meeting Citizen Complaint Brochure Commissioner Frederick stated she had been asked to work on a brochure for dissemination to citizens wishing to file complaints against the Department. She stated currently there are separate procedures for LPD and the Human Relations & Community Services Department. She also has been informed the Mayor's Action Plan calls for a single complaint process. At this time she feels it is premature to write a procedure solely for the Police Department. She feels that it would be less confusing to our citizens to have one overall process, common forms, and a tracking process which shares the outcome of a complaint with the citizen filing the complaint. Commissioners Maxsam and Valdez volunteered to work with Commissioner Frederick on the procedures/brochure. Commissioner Frederick stated she will be contacting the Mayor's office prior to the next meeting to clarify the Mayor's request North Precinct Facility Commissioner Maxsam noted from the "Mayor's Action Plan on Community-Police Relations Status Report (page 17, item 11) that the status of the North Precinct facility is unchanged and will require approval of the City Council. He and Commissioner Frederick volunteered to speak with the Mayor regarding this recommendation. Commissioner Maxsam feels this facility is an important part of the community policing concept. This item to remain on the agenda. Matrix on Status of Detention Recommendations Chief Boles reviewed the matrix. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He reviewed the recommendations and their current status. He stated not all of the recommendations have been implemented at this point as some require additional funding from City Council. Matrix on Mayor's Action Plan on Community - Police Relations Status Report Chief Boles reviewed the matrix. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. He stated a status report will be presented to the Board on an on-going basis. He stated some work has already begun with the authority of the Mayor. Some will require City Council action. Chief Boles stated he will be meeting on a regular basis with Mr. Walker of the Human Relations and Community Services Department regarding the complaint process/procedures in conjunction with this Board. Chief Boles stated the Police Department will be responsible for updating the matrix. This will be an agenda item next month Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes (Amended Copy) January 21, 1997 Page 4 PUBLIC COMMENTS Darnell Oldham Asked if he could receive a 1997 meeting schedule for the Board of Police Commissioner's meetings. Ms. Gill will mail him a copy. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Lt. Maatman stated he knows of several issues that Sergeant Ted Rahl wishes to address with this Board. The Board invited Lt. Maatman to share those concerns. Lt. Maatman stated he would rather Sergeant Rahl be present as he is the President of the FOP Supervisor's Union. Tabled until the next meeting. Lt. Maatman was asked to notify Sergeant Rahl of the next meeting. COMMUNICATIONS Letters of Appreciation The Board reviewed and placed on file four letters and memorandums of appreciation complimenting officers of the LPD. Copies are attached as a permanent addendum to the original minutes. Complaints against the Department The Board reviewed and placed on file 16 complaints investigated by the Internal Affairs Unit for the month of December, 1996. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Commissioner Maxsam questioned the five cases in which the complainants felt they were being stopped because of their race. Members noted each of those cases had the same case number and it felt it was just one case. Regarding the complaint in which an officer allegedly shot the complainant's dog, Chief Boles stated there was a firecracker involved, not gun fire. Commissioner Maxsam questioned case number IA-96-121 in reference to use of force and asked Chief Boles to provide more in depth information at the next meeting_ The Board also questioned a complaint which was not sustained in which an officer was accused of watching children in the park for sexual gratification. Chief Boles stated is an example of how the Police Department takes and investigates all complaints that are reported to us. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes (Amended Copy) January 21, 1997 Page 5 DEPARTMENTAL HIGHLIGHTS December 1996: The Board received and placed on file reports of departmental highlights for the month of December, 1996. Copies are attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. It was noted there was no K-9 Report. Ms. Gill explained they have had some hard drive damage. Hopefully they will have a report for January. Traffic Review Board The Board received and placed on file the reports for this reporting period. It was noted there were seven accidents, three of which were preventable. A copy of the report is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. Communications Department Report There was no report submitted this month. COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget Committee Commissioner Canady stated the budget has already been reviewed and approved by this committee. He stated the Board's recommendation for approval has been forwarded to the Mayor's Office. Chief Boles stated we are in the process of individual department hearings and the Budget will be presented to the City Council in March. The City Council must act on it by the third Monday in May. Chief Boles will keep Board members informed of any action taken. Awards & Citations Committee Commissioner Porter suggested that the letters of appreciation sent from citizens during the month be forwarded to Sergeant Ventre for consideration by the Awards & Citation Committee. Ms. Gill will begin forwarding letters of appreciation to Sat Ventre each month Human Resources Committee Commissioner Walker stated he would like to schedule a joint-strategy meeting with Captain Perry-Buse and Chief Boles to discuss the Mayor's recommendations regarding minority hiring. He suggested the first part of February would be a good time. Members of this committee are Commissioners Walker, Canady, and Maxsam. Chief Boles will arrange the meeting and Board members will be individually notified. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes (Amended Copy) January 21, 1997 Page 6 Incentives Committee Commissioner Valdez had nothing to report. COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS Commissioner Canady He questioned whether or not the March for Justice's recommendation of a Citizen's Review Board would require City Council action. Chief Boles stated it would. He questioned how a Citizen's Review Board and the Board of Police Commissioners would mesh. He is with the understanding that if the Citizen's Review Board is not approved by the City Council, March for Justice can put the issue on the ballot with 5% of the signatures of the registered voters. Commissioner Farhat-Reed She will be out of town for the next meeting and asked to be excused. The Board concurred. Commissioner Frederick Feels she does not have enough information to form an opinion regarding whether or not the March for Justice's recommendation for a Citizen's Review Board is warranted. She wanted to learn how other cities with Citizen Review Boards work. From what she knows, she sees no difference in a Citizen's Review Board and the current Board of Police Commissioners. She suggested we fix what is already in place rather than create another governmental bureaucracy. Commissioner Maxsam He finds the recommendations by the March for Justice disturbing. He feels their proposal is unrealistic because the things they are proposing is what this Board is suppose to be doing. He stated the Charter gives this Board the responsibility to accomplish the same goals and objectives the March for Justice is recommending. He feels this Board is here to represent the citizens of this City. Several citizens have highlighted problems this Board has already begun to address. He feels there is no need to create another Board. Commissioner Person Absent from tonight's meeting. Commissioner Porter No additional comments Commissioner Valdez No additional comments. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes (Amended Copy) January 21, 1997 Page 7 Commissioner Walker He is concerned with the number of shootings in and around the City. In particular, he was concerned about a couple of shooting incidents which occurred at a private club on Washington. Chief Boles stated the club is owned by a private citizen who had rented the building for a party. The owner was contacted by Captain Teszlewicz and there will be no further rental for parties. Commissioner Walker stated he would like to learn more about the policies and procedures for the K-9 Officers. He stated that from the information he received whenever K-9's are involved in any incident, no one is hurt, there are no shootings, and no complaints. He feels the dogs serve to diffuse some very hostile situations. He questioned whether or not a K-9 officer/supervisor could come of one of the meetings for a short presentation. Commissioner Farhat-Reed feels it is a good idea for all Board members to enroll in the Citizen's Police Academy and suggested the Board at least attend the K-9 portion of the Citizen's Police Academy. Ms. Gill was asked to check on the date of that presentation the possibility of having Board members attend, and send individual notices to Board members ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Boles stated Kahlil Wasson has been named the new Cadet Mentor at LCC. He stated she will be monitoring the academic progress of our cadets. She has also volunteered to be a part of the Cadet Recruiting Team. He also addressed the shooting incident between the two Michigan State Police. He stated that while the incident occurred in the City's jurisdiction, MSP requested and were allowed to conduct the investigation. OTHER BUSINESS Hiring Criteria Chief Boles reviewed a proposal submitted by Captain Helen Perry-Buse regarding relaxing some of the hiring criteria relating to past driving records and eyesight. A copy is attached to the original minutes as a permanent addendum. She has learned that we have some of the most stringent criteria and in order to remain competitive for candidates, we should change our standards. MSP has currently suspended all vision requirements and they are conducting a study. Chief Boles stated we have checked with our risk manager and the department's psychologist and they are comfortable with these changes. There was discussion about radial keratotomy and other surgical procedures which can now be done to correct vision to 20/20 without corrective lenses. It was unanimously concluded by the Board the criteria should be changed as recommended by Cqptain Perry-Buse. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes (Amended Copy) January 21, 1997 Page 8 P.A.L. Team Sponsorship Commissioner Canady stated he and Commissioner Farhat-Reed had committed this Board to sponsor a P.A.L. basketball team this year. Sponsorship is $250 which is $31.25 each. Commissioners were asked to forward their checks to Ms. Gill. Chief Boles stated the teams play Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday nights at the South Precinct. He encouraged Board members to come out and support P.A.L. April Meeting Ms. Gill announced that the April 15, 1997, meeting will be held at the North Network Center as requested by this Board. She stated maps will be available by the March Meeting. ADJOURNMENT There being no other business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m. interoffice M E M O R A N D U M to: Vicky Gill, Office of Chief of Police from: Dixie Gilmore subject: Board of Police Commissioner 1997 Minutes date: May 21, 1997 To update you on the status of the 1997 minutes for the Board of Police Commissioners, minutes have been placed on file for March 18 and April 15. No minutes, however, have been received for January 21 or February 18. Please provide our office with the missing minutes or information about meeting cancellations for those dates. Thank you for your assistance. /dlg BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS RECEivr-_o i [-',nv 19 An 9: 40 NOTICE LANSING CITY CLERK CHANGE IN MEETING TIME THE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, MAY 20, 1997, AT 5:30 P.M. HAS BEEN CHANGED TO 5:00 P.M. THE MEETING WILL BE HELD AT THE SOUTH PRECINCT LOCATED AT 3400 SOUTH CEDAR STREET AT HOLMES. PLEASE POST! y�N 5 1 NG 1rICHIG�� Office of City Clerk City of Lansing Marilynn Slade City Clerk TO : Vicky Gill, Police Administration-Cent FROM: Dixie Gilmore, City Clerk' s Office DATE : November 25, 1997 SUBJECT : 1997 Police Commissioners Board Minutes A review of our records indicates the following board minutes are not on file in the Clerks' s Office : / 5-20 , 6-17, 7-10, 8-19, 9-2 , 9-16 , 9-22 and 10-21 The last board minutes placed on file with our office were for the meeting of 6-13 . Would you please either provide the missing minutes or advise us of their status? Thank you for your cooperation in bringing this file up to date . /dlg G C� Ninth Floor, City Hall, 124 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48933-1695 517-483-4131 517-377-0068 FAX oto RECYCLED PAPER yPN S ,�C �CRIG Office of City Clerk Marilynn Slade City of Lansing City Clerk TO : Vicky Gill, Police Administration-Cent FROM: Dixie Gilmore, City Clerk' s Office DATE : November 25, 1997 SUBJECT: 1997 Police Commissioners Board Minutes A review of our records indicates the following board minutes are not on file in the Clerks' s Office : 5-20 , 6-17, 7-10, 8-19, 9-2 , 9-16, 9-22 and 10-21 The last board minutes placed on file with our office were for the meeting of 6-13 . Would you please either provide the missing minutes or advise us of their status? Thank you for your cooperation in bringing this file up to date . /dlg Ninth Floor, City Hall, 124 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48933-1695 • 517-483-4131 • 517-377-0068 FAX rl RECYCLED PAPER