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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000 Board of Police Commissioners Minutes -All BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Derrick Quinney Assistant Chief Andy George Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat Commissioner Kevin O'Malley MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: Commissioner Roger Newcomb Lee "Pete" Canady Commissioner Maria Mejorado COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: Commissioner Linda Sims CALL TO ORDER - Commissioner Frederick Commissioner Frederick called the meeting to order at 12:06 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Mr. Canady wished members of the Board Merry Christmas and commented favorably on the work they have done. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA Discussion related to the Board's 2001 meeting schedule was added to the agenda under Other Business. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Frederick Minutes of the regular meeting of November 21 were amended to show that the Complaint Committee discussion related to Commissioner Farhat, not to Commissioner Newcomb. Amended minutes were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Review of Brochure - Board members noted a few typographical errors and discussed distribution of the brochure. They noted that community centers, schools and City Council chambers would be likely distribution points. Commissioner Newcomb suggested the brochure mention the Commission Investigator's role. The Board tabled further discussion of the brochure until it is reviewed by Human Relations and Community Services. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Commissioner Frederick Commissioner Frederick commented favorably on the letters received. Commissioner Newcomb requested a response from Chief Alley related to his letter concerning repeated complaints against a single employee, even if exonerated. Chief Alley agreed that repeated complaints can be cause for concern and noted systems / models used by other organizations to give a perspective on patterns of Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of December 19, 2000 Page 2 behavior, including Sparrow Hospital's "Service Excellence" program and the City of Pittsburgh Police Department's in-house personnel management software. He noted the excessive administrative time necessary in the Pittsburgh model and mentioned that a hybrid of it and the Sparrow model may be most appropriate for LPD. Chief Alley, Assistant Chief George and Lt. Szymanski will continue to explore alternatives and will incorporate LPD's incoming records management system (RMS) to aid in data gathering. Commissioner Newcomb asked if past complaints are reviewed before a determination of "not sustained" is placed on an Internal Affairs complaint. Chief Alley mentioned that under the current review process, they are not. Commissioner Farhat requested the average number of complaints received by an officer in their career. Chief Alley told her that there is a great deal of variance and no average statistics are available. Commissioner Farhat requested information on officer "Kevin" mentioned in one letter and was informed that the letter referred to Sgt. Kevin Kilborn as the helpful officer who allowed a member of the public to use his cell phone. (Only Command Officers carry cell phones.) Commissioner Kowalk asked if fellow officers are made aware when one of there own receives a favorable letter or comment from the public. Chief Alley noted that this was at the discretion of the Command Officer. Correspondence for the month was accepted and placed on file. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Alley reported that flu shots would be offered at City Hall. Everyone is welcome. He discussed the upcoming closing of 1-496. He has been attending meetings in preparation for the closing and the public can expect to see more media coverage as the closing approaches. The Department will need to make arrangements to accommodate special events, parades, etc. While most traffic experts say to expect the closing to intensify traffic on local east / west routes. Chief Alley expects north / south routes to also see traffic increases. The Chief commended officers and communications technicians for their outstanding work during the recent snow storms. Four-wheel drive vehicles were borrowed from the Parks Department to ensure police response throughout the City. Chief Alley noted that he has now been on the job for six months and expressed his appreciation for the support he has received from within the Department, and specifically for the sound advice received from the Board of Police Commissioners. He mentioned an update previously distributed to Board members concerning data gathering on traffic stops. Several members commended him on the update. Commissioner Frederick noted that the Education Committee will offer a presentation at the January Board meeting related to the Department's data gathering methods. Board members are requested to review Chief Alley's correspondence in preparation for that presentation. Commissioner Newcomb asked if the Department's budget included the purchase of the flashlight/PBT devices mentioned by the Lansing State Journal. Chief Alley noted that they are not budgeted, but rather two devices were purchased on a trial basis. Commissioner Quinney asked for an update on the court's decision to allow the Lansing State Journal access to Internal Affairs files. Chief Alley noted that the City will challenge the decision. The FOP will join us in the challenge. He commented that police agencies in other Michigan municipalities are not subject to this ruling and we should not be subject to a different set of rules. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of December 19, 2000 Page 3 DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for November 2000 - Commissioner Quinney noted the departure of several officers and Chief Alley gave individual details. Commissioner Kowalk noted the absence of information from two team sergeants in the North Precinct and Chief Alley promised to investigate. Commissioner Newcomb noted the marked increase in CSC's and Chief Alley agreed this is a crime which is increasing, but noted that the relatively low numbers result in large percentage changes. Discussion was held on the increase in larcenies from automobiles. Chief Alley noted that many of them were traceable to group activity and the Department has successfully stopped at least one group responsible. Chief Alley noted that officers have achieved very good results from basic police patrol. Commissioner Farhat expressed appreciation for the inclusion of sergeant's e-mail addresses in their summaries. Commissioners discussed criminal activity related to CATA buses and the transportation center. They also discussed truancy and the police department's often repeated service of returning truants to their school. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - Commissioner Newcomb noted the restraint use report. The Detention report was accepted and placed on file. CrimeStoppers Report- Commissioner Frederick commented on this new report and mentioned that its topic might be worth considering for an Education Committee presentation. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - No report. Education Committee - No report. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Committee - Commissioner O'Malley introduced the Department's FY2002 budget proposal saying it was basically a maintenance budget with a few items driving it beyond the Mayor's recommended target. Chief Alley will continue to work with division commanders to fine tune requests. Commissioner Newcomb opened a discussion on the New Program proposal to purchase .223 rifles for use in rapid response situations rather than employ the START team. Chief Alley and Assistant Chief George reported on the benefit of faster response and reduction in stray pellets when using a rifle versus the danger of un-thwarted rifle fire. They noted the ineffectiveness of the traditional tactical practice of setting up a perimeter in cases such as the Columbine shooting. The purchase of rifles would be part of a program which would include training. Commissioner O'Malley led a discussion on the Department's response to City Council's stated budget priorities. Commissioners expressed their appreciation to Commissioner O'Malley for his ability to communicate with them throughout the budgeting process. Board members approved a motion to submit the LPD FY2002 budget proposal to Mayor Hollister. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of December 19, 2000 Page 4 Human Resources Committee - No report. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reported that in reviewing the monthly IA complaints, the committee had a question which they presented to Chief Alley and received a satisfactory response. The committee's next meeting with Internal Affairs is scheduled for January 4. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON No representative present. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Kowalk - expressed appreciation for budget updates received from Commissioner O'Malley. Commissioner O'Malley - none. Commissioner Farhat - noted the Common Ground festival scheduled for July 17-22. Discounted tickets are now available. Commissioner Newcomb - expressed his appreciation to the Board for having a good year and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. Commissioner Mejorado - apologized for her absence at the last meeting and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. Commissioner Quinney - thanked Commissioner Mejorado for her Christmas card, expressed appreciation to Commissioner O'Malley for his budget communications, extended kudos to Chief Alley on his first six months, and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. Commissioner Frederick - ditto to all. OTHER BUSINESS Jim DeLine distributed a proposed schedule for the Board's 2001 meetings with meetings set consistently on the third Tuesday of each month. Board members noted that adjustments may be mandated if / when Council meets on the same Tuesday. Board members may also decide to move the meeting that falls during Common Ground, however Board members approved the schedule for 2001 as presented. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Commissioner Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 2:01 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Derrick Quinney Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Ofc. Jennifer Kielas Commissioner Roger Newcomb Ofc. Michelle Burkhartdt :<J COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: GUESTS Commissioner Linda Sims Ofc. Robert Tucker = Commissioner Maria Mejorado - MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None. CALL TO ORDER - Vice-Chairperson Quinney As Commissioner Frederick's voice was impaired due to illness, Vice-Chairperson Quinney called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There being no objection, a change in agenda was approved moving Other Business (including the discussion of new procedures) to immediately follow Unfinished Business. EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTATION Ofc. Robert Tucker, LPD Crime Prevention Officer - provided Board members with information regarding his services to the public. He concentrated on home security surveys reviewing the ways people can make their homes less inviting to robbers. Ofc. Tucker noted that the best way to protect the perimeter of your home is by participating in a Neighborhood Watch program. For exterior security, be sure to concentrate on the front door, the entry point for 50% of all B&E's. When using a security system to secure the interior of your home, be sure the vendor you choose matches the system to your needs, explains fully how to manage the system, and is willing to provide support when the system malfunctions. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Vice -Chairperson Quinney Minutes of the regular meeting of October 17 were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 2 OTHER BUSINESS Approval of Procedures - Chief Alley explained that, for the first time, procedures were given a comprehensive examination to ensure that they reflected present day needs and practices. Overall, they were satisfactory, many requiring few, if any, changes. Procedures were scrutinized by a team of writers made up of Ofc. Cassie Alley and several officers on light duty, by a committee which included union representation, and by an administrative team consisting of the Chief and two Assistant Chiefs. Commissioner O'Malley distributed notes which he compiled as a result of his review of the procedures. Because of the quantity of procedures on the Board's docket (22), there was discussion as to discuss each of them tonight or to table some for a later meeting. The consensus of the Board was to attempt to go through all. Each procedure was handled individually, being first moved for passage in its entirety, then discussed, amended and voted on as per Robert's Rules of Order. • Administrative Supervision of Commission Investigator- Discussion focused on the need for the Director of Human Relations and Community Services to work with the Board when needs arise whereby the Commission Investigator is utilized for non-police related matters. The procedure was passed as presented. • Annual Report- Board members suggested amending the language concerning the distribution of the Annual Report (V.B.) to read, "no later than June 1s`", rather than "by June Vt." The procedure was passed as amended. • Awards and Citations Program- Board members suggested amending the language concerning the nature of peril qualifying an employee for a Medal of Honor (VI.A.) to read, "beyond the normal call of duty," rather than "beyond the normal cause of duty." The procedure was passed as amended. • Board of Police Commissioners - Charter- Board members suggested amending the language concerning an annual report (V.F.) to read" the handling of crime and complaints, if any" rather than "the handling of crime and complaints, is any." The procedure was passed as amended. • Board of Police Commissioners Complaint Review Committee - The procedure was passed as presented. • Board of Police Commissioners Critical Incident Briefings - Commissioner Quinney questioned whether a quorum was necessary in order for a briefing to be conducted. Paul McComb responded that briefings do not require a quorum and noted that they are not public meetings and, therefore, no action can be taken by Board members at a briefing. The procedure was passed as presented. • Board of Police Commissioners Meetings - Board members suggested amending the language concerning attendance requirements (V.C.2.b.) to read "in any calendar year," rather than "in any fiscal year." The procedure was passed as amended. • Complaint Procedure - Discussion was held on the term "rules of evidence" as it applies to investigations as opposed to in a court of law. Board members suggested amending the language concerning employee rights (VIII.C.)to read, "Investigators shall not knowingly violate an employee's due process rights..." rather than "Investigators shall follow rules of evidence The procedure was passed as amended. • Department Field Training and Evaluation Programs- Discussion was held on the length of time Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 3 necessary to keep veteran officers in the training program upon return to patrol from a non- patrol assignment. Board members suggested amending the language (III.D.)to read "assigned to an FTO for up to a ten day period for purposes of retraining and orientation" rather than "assigned to an FTO for a minimum ten day period for purposes of retraining and orientation as staffing permits." Board members also suggested amending the language concerning step four (III.B.4.) to read "works with a previously assigned FTO" rather than "works with a previous assigned FTO." The procedure was passed as amended. • Discipline of Civilian Personnel- The procedure was passed as presented. • Discipline of Sworn Personnel - Commissioner Newcomb asked if the twenty-four calendar month from date of occurrence time limit on consideration of a disciplinary action in a subsequent disciplinary matter was a union mandate. Chief Alley responded that it was. Commissioner Kowalk asked if the records retained by Internal Affairs for the use of "the Chief of Police I designee" included Board members. The Chief assured her it did. Board members suggested amending the language concerning retention of records (XIV.C.) to include those of boards of review. The procedure was passed as amended. • Extra Duty Assignments at the Lansing Center- Commissioner Farhat asked why the Lansing Center was delineated from other event assignments. Chief Alley explained the arrangement by which the Lansing Center reimburses the Department for these extra duty assignments. The procedure was passed as presented. • Internal Board of Review - Board members asked why they were not included in this review procedure. Paul McComb explained that Internal Boards of Review grew out of the Department's need to review vehicle accidents involving police personnel and is now inclusive of other internal considerations. The procedure was passed as presented. • Memorandums, Procedures, Training Bulletins and Report Writing Handbook - Discussion was held on the proper word to use when seeking the plural of the word "memorandum"and it was noted that either memoranda or memorandums was acceptable. Commissioners asked whether they should be mentioned under the definition of "Operating Procedures" as well as under "Administrative Procedures." Chief Alley implored the Board to maintain its consulting role on administrative procedures only. The procedure was passed as presented. • Organization of Lansing Police Department-Commissioner O'Malley led a discussion on the use of the word "employs" as it relates to the Board's working relationship with the Commission Investigator. Board members suggested amending the language concerning this relationship (II.B.) to read "Pursuant to its Charter authority, the Board utilizes a Commission Investigator employed by the City ..." rather than "The Board employs a Commission Investigator ...". Board members also suggested amending the section on Legal Advisor (V.) by removing the first sentence. The procedure was passed as amended. • Police Officer Applicant Qualifications - Board members suggested amending the section on personal qualifications (III.C.3.) by removing the last sentence relative to bankruptcy. The procedure was passed as amended. • Police Chaplains - Board members discussed a chaplain's right to keep information on a privileged basis. Paul McComb mentioned that this right is extended to Police Chaplains but not to members of a trauma team. Board members also discussed potential liability issues should Police Chaplains be placed in harm's way in the performance of their duties. The procedure was passed as presented. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 4 • Police Officer Probationary Requirements - The procedure was passed as presented. • Promotional Process forSworn and Communications Center Personnel-Commissioner O'Malley inquired whether the language on promotional probation (XIII.) applied to the Chief of Police. It does not. The procedure was passed as presented. • Rules of Conduct- Commissioner O'Malley led a discussion on the right of the Department to require employees to avoid "unbecoming conduct," "immoral conduct," or the making of statements which would "publicly criticize or ridicule the Department." Paul McComb pointed out that the Department must be reasonable when enforcing these rules and be able to support its enforcement decision in arbitration hearings, including proof of harm to the Department. The procedure was passed as presented. • Sexual Harassment- Board members discussed the importance of making employees aware of this procedure. Chief Alley assured them that sexual harassment awareness is included in periodic training sessions required of all employees. The procedure was passed as presented. • Supplemental Employment - The procedure was passed as presented. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Vice-Chairperson Quinney Commissioner Quinney was pleased with the many positive letters including one which commended the Chief on taking the initiative in examining the issue of racial profiling. Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Alley reported that Capt. Williams would be attending the FBI academy in January and Capt. Luciano in April. He commented on his recent trip to San Diego to attend the International Association of Chiefs of Police annual meeting. He heard a broad spectrum of opinions on police department approaches to the study of potential racial profiling. He will soon be providing Board members with a twenty page report on the issue. He spoke to the Board reference the Department's proposed new program to purchase .223 rifles in order to aid in its rapid response efforts. Rifles have proven to be much more precise as shotgun pellets are prone to miss targets which exceed twenty five yards. The Chief recognized Commissioners Frederick and O'Malley for attending the induction of Clarrisa Young into the Women's Hall of Fame. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for October 2000 - Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - The Detention report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 5 placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick noted that this committee will be more active with the conclusion of the political season. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick distributed a committee plan which included Board and community presentations, as well as ideas for developing a Board website and educating the community about the Board. Chief Alley noted that the Department was preparing a brochure for distribution within the community on contact with police officers. He will provide a draft to the Board for their comments. Board members expressed their pleasure at seeing a resurrected / rescheduled Citizen's Police Academy. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee- Commissioner Farhat reported that the committee recently reviewed award nominations covering twenty-one incidents involving over 100 people. She noted that nominations are still being accepted. Budget Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported that Department personnel are presently compiling individual unit and division work programs and budgets. The Chief will lead a discussion of work programs at his November 29 staff meeting and of budgets at his December 6 staff meeting. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Kowalk will soon meet with Capt. Williams and Sgt. Baylis of the LPD Human Resources Unit to help her arrive at committee objectives. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Farhat reported that in reviewing an IA complaint recently, she had occasion to hear some 911 taped conversations. They were very enlightening. Commissioner Newcomb noted that the committee will meet this coming Monday and will soon implement the committee's newly announced method of reviewing complaints. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, announced the preparation of his monthly summary of cases and had nothing further to report. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON None. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Kowalk - noted the need for PAL basketball volunteers for the upcoming January-March season. She also noted that it might be beneficial if the Lansing State Journal would be willing to run photos and profiles of Board members as they did politicians running for office. Commissioner O'Malley - expressed his appreciation to those who worked on revising procedures. Commissioner Farhat - distributed information concerning the December 4 Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board Christmas Party and thanked Board members for their thoughts, prayers, visits and flowers which were extended to her during her hospital stay. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 6 Commissioner Quinney - expressed his appreciation to Commissioner O'Malley for his useful notes on the individual procedure drafts and noted he appreciated being back with the Board after his absence related to election politics. Commissioner Frederick - announced Commissioner Mejorado's regret at not being able to attend tonight's meeting and thanked Commissioner Quinney for presiding over the meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Vice-Chairperson Quinney There being no other business to discuss, Vice-Chairperson Quinney adjourned the meeting at 9:08 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - DRAFT - TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Derrick Quinney Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Jim DeLine, Secretary _ Commissioner Patty Farhat Bernard Brantley, Commission:Investigator Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Ofc. Jennifer Kielas Commissioner Roger Newcomb Ofc. Michelle Burkhartdt �J } COMMISSIONERS EXCUSED: GUESTS -7 Commissioner Linda Sims Ofc. Robert Tucker j Commissioner Maria Mejorado MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None. r CALL TO ORDER - Vice-Chairperson Quinney As Commissioner Frederick's voice was impaired due to illness, Vice-Chairperson Quinney called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA There being no objection, a change in agenda was approved moving Other Business (including the discussion of new procedures) to immediately follow Unfinished Business. EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTATION Ofc. Robert Tucker, LPD Crime Prevention Officer - provided Board members with information regarding his services to the public. He concentrated on home security surveys reviewing the ways people can make their homes less inviting to robbers. Ofc. Tucker noted that the best way to protect the perimeter of your home is by participating in a Neighborhood Watch program. For exterior security, be sure to concentrate on the front door, the entry point for 50% of all B&E's. When using a security system to secure the interior of your home, be sure the vendor you choose matches the system to your needs, explains fully how to manage the system, and is willing to provide support when the system malfunctions. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Vice -Chairperson Quinney Minutes of the regular meeting of October 17 were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 2 OTHER BUSINESS Approval of Procedures - Chief Alley explained that, for the first time, procedures were given a comprehensive examination to ensure that they reflected present day needs and practices. Overall, they were satisfactory, many requiring few, if any, changes. Procedures were scrutinized by a team of writers made up of Ofc. Cassie Alley and several officers on light duty, by a committee which included union representation, and by an administrative team consisting of the Chief and two Assistant Chiefs. Commissioner O'Malley distributed notes which he compiled as a result of his review of the procedures. Because of the quantity of procedures on the Board's docket (22), there was discussion as to discuss each of them tonight or to table some for a later meeting. The consensus of the Board was to attempt to go through all. Each procedure was handled individually, being first moved for passage in its entirety, then discussed, amended and voted on as per Robert's Rules of Order. • Administrative Supervision of Commission Investigator - Discussion focused on the need for the Director of Human Relations and Community Services to work with the Board when needs arise whereby the Commission Investigator is utilized for non-police related matters. The procedure was passed as presented. • Annual Report- Board members suggested amending the language concerning the distribution of the Annual Report (V.B.) to read, "no later than June 1'", rather than "by June Vt." The procedure was passed as amended. • Awards and Citations Program - Board members suggested amending the language concerning the nature of peril qualifying an employee for a Medal of Honor (VI.A.) to read, "beyond the normal call of duty," rather than "beyond the normal cause of duty." The procedure was passed as amended. • Board of Police Commissioners - Charter- Board members suggested amending the language concerning an annual report (V.F.) to read" the handling of crime and complaints, if any" rather than "the handling of crime and complaints, is any." The procedure was passed as amended. • Board of Police Commissioners Complaint Review Committee - The procedure was passed as presented. • Board of Police Commissioners Critical Incident Briefings - Commissioner Quinney questioned whether a quorum was necessary in order for a briefing to be conducted. Paul McComb responded that briefings do not require a quorum and noted that they are not public meetings and, therefore, no action can be taken by Board members at a briefing. The procedure was passed as presented. • Board of Police Commissioners Meetings - Board members suggested amending the language concerning attendance requirements (V.C.2.b.) to read "in any calendar year," rather than "in any fiscal year." The procedure was passed as amended. • Complaint Procedure - Discussion was held on the term "rules of evidence" as it applies to investigations as opposed to in a court of law. Board members suggested amending the language concerning employee rights (VIII.C.)to read, "Investigators shall not knowingly violate an employee's due process rights..." rather than "Investigators shall follow rules of evidence The procedure was passed as amended. • Department Field Training and Evaluation Programs- Discussion was held on the length of time Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 3 necessary to keep veteran officers in the training program upon return to patrol from a non- patrol assignment. Board members suggested amending the language (III.D.) to read "assigned to an FTO for up to a ten day period for purposes of retraining and orientation" rather than "assigned to an FTO for a minimum ten day period for purposes of retraining and orientation as staffing permits." Board members also suggested amending the language concerning step four (III.B.4.) to read "works with a previously assigned FTO" rather than "works with a previous assigned FTO." The procedure was passed as amended. • Discipline of Civilian Personnel- The procedure was passed as presented. • Discipline of Sworn Personnel - Commissioner Newcomb asked if the twenty-four calendar month from date of occurrence time limit on consideration of a disciplinary action in a subsequent disciplinary matter was a union mandate. Chief Alley responded that it was. Commissioner Kowalk asked if the records retained by Internal Affairs for the use of "the Chief of Police / designee" included Board members. The Chief assured her it did. Board members suggested amending the language concerning retention of records (XIV.C.) to include those of boards of review. The procedure was passed as amended. • Extra Duty Assignments at the Lansing Center- Commissioner Farhat asked why the Lansing Center was delineated from other event assignments. Chief Alley explained the arrangement by which the Lansing Center reimburses the Department for these extra duty assignments. The procedure was passed as presented. • Internal Board of Review - Board members asked why they were not included in this review procedure. Paul McComb explained that Internal Boards of Review grew out of the Department's need to review vehicle accidents involving police personnel and is now inclusive of other internal considerations. The procedure was passed as presented. • Memorandums, Procedures, Training Bulletins and Report Writing Handbook- Discussion was held on the proper word to use when seeking the plural of the word "memorandum"and it was noted that either memoranda or memorandums was acceptable. Commissioners asked whether they should be mentioned under the definition of "Operating Procedures" as well as under "Administrative Procedures." Chief Alley implored the Board to maintain its consulting role on administrative procedures only. The procedure was passed as presented. • Organization of Lansing Police Department- Commissioner O'Malley led a discussion on the use of the word "employs" as it relates to the Board's working relationship with the Commission Investigator. Board members suggested amending the language concerning this relationship (II.B.) to read "Pursuant to its Charter authority, the Board utilizes a Commission Investigator employed by the City ..." rather than "The Board employs a Commission Investigator ...". Board members also suggested amending the section on Legal Advisor (V.) by removing the first sentence. The procedure was passed as amended. • Police Officer Applicant Qualifications - Board members suggested amending the section on personal qualifications (III.C.3.) by removing the last sentence relative to bankruptcy. The procedure was passed as amended. • Police Chaplains - Board members discussed a chaplain's right to keep information on a privileged basis. Paul McComb mentioned that this right is extended to Police Chaplains but not to members of a trauma team. Board members also discussed potential liability issues should Police Chaplains be placed in harm's way in the performance of their duties. The procedure was passed as presented. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 4 • Police Officer Probationary Requirements - The procedure was passed as presented. • Promotional Process forSworn and Communications Center Personnel-Commissioner O'Malley inquired whether the language on promotional probation (XIII.) applied to the Chief of Police. It does not. The procedure was passed as presented. • Rules of Conduct- Commissioner O'Malley led a discussion on the right of the Department to require employees to avoid "unbecoming conduct," "immoral conduct," or the making of statements which would "publicly criticize or ridicule the Department." Paul McComb pointed out that the Department must be reasonable when enforcing these rules and be able to support its enforcement decision in arbitration hearings, including proof of harm to the Department. The procedure was passed as presented. • Sexual Harassment- Board members discussed the importance of making employees aware of this procedure. Chief Alley assured them that sexual harassment awareness is included in periodic training sessions required of all employees. The procedure was passed as presented. • Supplemental Employment- The procedure was passed as presented. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Vice-Chairperson Quinney Commissioner Quinney was pleased with the many positive letters including one which commended the Chief on taking the initiative in examining the issue of racial profiling. Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT Chief Alley reported that Capt. Williams would be attending the FBI academy in January and Capt. Luciano in April. He commented on his recent trip to San Diego to attend the International Association of Chiefs of Police annual meeting. He heard a broad spectrum of opinions on police department approaches to the study of potential racial profiling. He will soon be providing Board members with a twenty page report on the issue. He spoke to the Board reference the Department's proposed new program to purchase .223 rifles in order to aid in its rapid response efforts. Rifles have proven to be much more precise as shotgun pellets are prone to miss targets which exceed twenty five yards. The Chief recognized Commissioners Frederick and O'Malley for attending the induction of Clarrisa Young into the Women's Hall of Fame. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for October 2000 - Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - The Detention report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 5 placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick noted that this committee will be more active with the conclusion of the political season. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick distributed a committee plan which included Board and community presentations, as well as ideas for developing a Board website and educating the community about the Board. Chief Alley noted that the Department was preparing a brochure for distribution within the community on contact with police officers. He will provide a draft to the Board for their comments. Board members expressed their pleasure at seeing a resurrected / rescheduled Citizen's Police Academy. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee-Commissioner Farhat reported that the committee recently reviewed award nominations covering twenty-one incidents involving over 100 people. She noted that nominations are still being accepted. Budget Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported that Department personnel are presently compiling individual unit and division work programs and budgets. The Chief will lead a discussion of work programs at his November 29 staff meeting and of budgets at his December 6 staff meeting. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Kowalk will soon meet with Capt. Williams and Sgt. Baylis of the LPD Human Resources Unit to help her arrive at committee objectives. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reported that in reviewing an IA complaint recently, he had occasion to hear some 911 taped conversations. They were very enlightening. He alos noted that the committee will meet this coming Monday and will soon implement the committee's newly announced method of reviewing complaints. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, announced the preparation of his monthly summary of cases and had nothing further to report. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON None. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Kowalk - noted the need for PAL basketball volunteers for the upcoming January-March season. She also noted that it might be beneficial if the Lansing State Journal would be willing to run photos and profiles of Board members as they did politicians running for office. Commissioner O'Malley - expressed his appreciation to those who worked on revising procedures. Commissioner Farhat - distributed information concerning the December 4 Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board Christmas Party and thanked Board members for their thoughts, prayers, visits and flowers which were extended to her during her hospital stay. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2000 Page 6 Commissioner Quinney - expressed his appreciation to Commissioner O'Malley for his useful notes on the individual procedure drafts and noted he appreciated being back with the Board after his absence related to election politics. Commissioner Frederick - announced Commissioner Mejorado's regret at not being able to attend tonight's meeting and thanked Commissioner Quinney for presiding over the meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Vice-Chairperson Quinney There being no other business to discuss, Vice-Chairperson Quinney adjourned the meeting at 9:08 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2000 n MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Patty Farhat Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Relations and Community Services Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS MEMBERS EXCUSED: Sam Johnson, CUTT Program Commissioner Derrick Quinney Carol Johnson Connie Doyle, Rivertrail Volunteer Program MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None. CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:26 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA The Education Committee Presentation was again placed immediately prior to Approval of Minutes and will be given a permanent position in the agenda. Commissioner Frederick noted that she plans to work with the Secretary to make other adjustments to the agenda. EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTATION Sam Johnson, CUTT Program: - provided Board members with information on this program (Citizens United to Track Truancy), explaining that all participants are senior citizen volunteers. The program, originally founded by Chief Alley in October, 1997, utilizes two donated cars used by volunteers to patrol the City until 11 :00 a.m. each school day as staffing permits. Volunteers are trained to attempt to identify truants and radio in for them to be questioned by school district officers. CUTT volunteers do not interact with truants. Mr. Johnson said being a member of the CUTT volunteer corps gives him a chance to give back to the City in which he lives and used to run a business. Chief Alley noted that crimes committed by those under the age of sixteen decrease by 27% in CUTT's first year of operation and by 38% in year two. Connie Doyle Rivertrail Volunteer Program - spoke on behalf of this program which utilizes volunteers to travel the Rivertrail in golf carts, assisting citizens and requesting assistance from the 911 Center when appropriate. Attempts are made to staff the program seven days per week from 11 :00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. three seasons per year. She noted that two boxes of trash per day are picked up by the volunteers. They have received very positive comments and can be a welcome site to citizens using the Rivertrail. Their jackets and I.D. cards are very helpful in identifying them. She mentioned that it would be of benefit if the volunteers could call the non-emergency dispatch number as well as 911. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 2 Adding young people to the corps of volunteers is also recommended. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick A correction was made to Dr. Rhodes-Reed's name throughout the document. Minutes of the regular meeting of September 19 were then approved as amended and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None, FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Sims was complimentary to the Department for generating such positive letters. She expressed her appreciation that people take the time to write. Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for September 2000 - Commissioner O'Malley noted the productivity of the Technical Services Unit. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - Commissioners expressed their pleasure at how comprehensive the report is and noted that the charts created in color do not produce well in black and white. The Detention report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioners noted the volume of calls and the reduction in reports taken. (Reports are now passed along to patrol officers for processing.) The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick had no report but requested that other Board members step forward to assist in serving as liaisons to City boards and committees. Commissioner O'Malley agreed to work with the City Council's Public Safety Committee. Commissioner Sims agreed to be a backup for attending the Human Relations and Community Services Board meetings. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick requested suggestions for an education topic for the November meeting. Commissioner Farhat suggested that Ofc. Robert Tucker be invited to speak on his work with homeowners offering security tips. Neighborhood Watch community leaders might wish to attend to gather information and speak. Commissioner Frederick indicated that she would pursue this suggestion. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley noted his increased comfort level in working with the Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 3 Department budget and expressed his hope that Board members were comfortable with the information he provided in his correspondence to them. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Kowalk is planning to meet with Capt. Williams and Sgt. Baylis of the LPD Human Resources Unit to help her arrive at committee objectives. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb announced the completion of Committee member Sims' orientation and the impending orientation for Committee member Farhat. He has assigned cases to committee members for their perusal prior to the upcoming meeting with LPD Internal Affairs. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, has prepared a summary of cases for the committee. He noted that a great deal of time has been spent recently working to wrap up seven complaints stemming from a single letter to Mayor Hollister. Paul McComb noted that City Attorney, Jim Smiertka, has declared the Board is acting appropriately by going into executive session to discuss the content of complaints under review by LPD Internal Affairs. This based on a September 19 decision of the Michigan Supreme Court in a Kent County case where an officer's lawyer was prevented from viewing an IA file. He noted that in order to hold an executive session, there must be a motion made, seconded and passed by a two-thirds majority. No votes may be taken while the Board is in executive session. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed reported that her Department is grappling with several priority issues including tax abatements, fair housing, vendor selection and their FY2002 budget proposal. A public hearing will soon be set to discuss an ordinance to fund the HR&CS Department utilizing a mandated formula. She noted that last month's stabbing at the Volunteers of America was not resident related. She also discussed the need for a youth needs assessment,the interim creation of a youth cultural center which utilizes the Boys and Girls Club and Hill Vocational Center, and the need to boost the visibility of the HR&CS Department particularly on the Internet. Dr. Rhodes-Reed announced that a Southside Summit would be held on Saturday. She noted that in internal City of Lansing posting would soon go up reference the position of HR&CS Deputy Director. She announced that this is Homeless Awareness Week and that an open house is to be held this weekend at a home on Chestnut Street which a couple donated to Loaves and Fishes. Commissioner Sims noted that the Advent House weekend day shelter was near capacity last Sunday morning. Dr. Rhodes-Reed commented that the State of Michigan will not be picking up shelter funding withdrawn by the Family Independence Agency. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Newcomb - had no additional comments. Commissioner O'Mallev-expressed his appreciation to the officers receiving recognition in letters from members of the public. Commissioner Farhat - brought the November 17 scheduling of Silver Bells in the City to the Board's attention and thanked them for their support in the City's consideration of boarding up some nuisance homes. Commissioner Sims - spoke of her ride-along with Capt. Forrest and their experiences at L.A. Globe. She believes that the establishment and its practices should be of concern to the City. She described Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 4 what she observed as "craziness." Commissioner O'Malley- expressed his concern in matters at the L.A. Globe and offered to speak with the property owner to gather more information. Commissioner Meiorado - noted that she had attended a private function at the L.A. Globe which went smoothly, but she had some concerns over some activities of customers and employees whom she observed. She expressed her dismay that the Citizens Police Academy was being canceled due to lack of community participants. Commissioner Farhat recommended that the Department consider holding the Citizens Police Academy during a time of year when it would have less competition from other activities. Perhaps winter would be a good time. Commissioner Kowalk - expressed her appreciation to Commissioner Farhat for getting involved in the boarded up house campaign and for e-mailing commissioners reference same, for helping to coordinate the reception for former Board member Pete Canady which preceded tonight's meeting, to Commissioner O'Malley for his budget communique, and to the City in general and Dr. Rhodes-Reed specifically for support of SafeNight 2000. Commissioner Frederick - informed the Board that her move to a new position with Legal Aid of Central Michigan is now complete. One of her first client encounters in this position was with a City of Lansing citizen who required police assistance due to domestic violence. The client spoke highly of our young officer's assistance and courtesy. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Mark Alley Chief Alley discussed his Friday "Face-to-Face" session on youth violence and the Lansing State Journal article on the "Join the Team" cable show. He noted that the tv show shows marked improvement over the first few which LPD produced. He noted Capt. Forrest's training session at the Community Policing Consortium and mentioned recent visits to area high schools, commenting that students were more vocal and inquisitive in an afternoon session rather than at the beginning of the day. He brought the Board up-to-date on the procedure manual rewrite, warning them to be prepared to review as many as twenty-four new procedures for discussion at next month's meeting. The Chief also announced that Capt. Julie Williams will be attending the FBI Academy in January. Chief Alley mentioned new directives he is giving to the LPD Crime Analysis Unit related to working more closely with patrol teams. He has also called a press conference for tomorrow reference the conclusion of the first full year of the LPD Juvenile Diversion program. Further, he has accepted a gubernatorial appointment to sit on a board responsible for the distribution of grant funds to law enforcement agencies. He encouraged Board members to read an article by Stephen D. Mastrofski on community policing which was mailed to them previously. He announced the first LPD violent toy exchange made possible by a partnership with MEA and noted that the program was meant as a tool to encourage family discussions on the many violent messages to which young people are exposed, rather than an indictment on the toy industry in particular. A discussion with the NRA to this effect may have prevented a City Hall visit by Charleton Heston when he visited the Lansing area. Community forums and officer forums are to be held this weekend to gather input reference the Department's racial profiling study. Officer training will be conducted prior to any data collection efforts. Chief Alley expects to maintain a visible public profile on this topic making it clear that this Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 5 is a pro-active endeavor to study the issue relative to our Department and not a "finger pointing" exercise. Commissioner Sims made the Board aware of Chief Alley's recent foray into the community as a uniformed patrol officer and noted that she would be guest host for Wilson Caldwell's radio program with a discussion on racial profiling. She also noted that a November 12 African-American Health Summit will be held at the Potter Park Zoo. OTHER BUSINESS None. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES ". - DRAFT - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2000 2168:r MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Patty Farhat Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Relations and Community Services Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS MEMBERS EXCUSED: Sam Johnson, CUTT Program Commissioner Derrick Quinney Carol Johnson Connie Doyle, Rivertrail Volunteer Program MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None. CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:26 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA The Education Committee Presentation was again placed immediately prior to Approval of Minutes and will be given a permanent position in the agenda. Commissioner Frederick noted that she plans to work with the Secretary to make other adjustments to the agenda. EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTATION Sam Johnson, CUTT Program: - provided Board members with information on this program (Citizens United to Track Truancy), explaining that all participants are senior citizen volunteers. The program, originally founded by Chief Alley in October, 1997, utilizes two donated cars used by volunteers to patrol the City until 1 1:00 a.m. each school day as staffing permits. Volunteers are trained to attempt to identify truants and radio in for them to be questioned by school district officers. CUTT volunteers do not interact with truants. Mr. Johnson said being a member of the CUTT volunteer corps gives him a chance to give back to the City in which he lives and used to run a business. Chief Alley noted that crimes committed by those under the age of sixteen decrease by 27% in CUTT's first year of operation and by 38% in year two. Connie Doyle, Rivertrail Volunteer Program - spoke on behalf of this program which utilizes volunteers to travel the Rivertrail in golf carts, assisting citizens and requesting assistance from the 911 Center when appropriate. Attempts are made to staff the program seven days per week from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. three seasons per year. She noted that two boxes of trash per day are picked up by the volunteers. They have received very positive comments and can be a welcome site to citizens using the Rivertrail. Their jackets and I.D. cards are very helpful in identifying them. She mentioned that it would be of benefit if the volunteers could call the non-emergency dispatch number as well as 91 1. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 2 Adding young people to the corps of volunteers is also recommended. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick A correction was made to Dr. Rhodes-Reed's name throughout the document. Minutes of the regular meeting of September 19 were then approved as amended and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Sims was complimentary to the Department for generating such positive letters. She expressed her appreciation that people take the time to write. Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for September 2000 - Commissioner O'Malley noted the productivity of the Technical Services Unit. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - Commissioners expressed their pleasure at how comprehensive the report is and noted that the charts created in color do not produce well in black and white. The Detention report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioners noted the volume of calls and the reduction in reports taken. (Reports are now passed along to patrol officers for processing.) The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick had no report but requested that other Board members step forward to assist in serving as liaisons to City boards and committees. Commissioner O'Malley agreed to work with the City Council's Public Safety Committee. Commissioner Sims agreed to be a backup for attending the Human Relations and Community Services Board meetings. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick requested suggestions for an education topic for the November meeting. Commissioner Farhat suggested that Ofc. Robert Tucker be invited to speak on his work with homeowners offering security tips. Neighborhood Watch community leaders might wish to attend to gather information and speak. Commissioner Frederick indicated that she would pursue this suggestion. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee- Commissioner O'Malley noted his increased comfort level in working with the Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 3 Department budget and expressed his hope that Board members were comfortable with the information he provided in his correspondence to them. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Kowalk is planning to meet with Capt. Williams and Sgt. Baylis of the LPD Human Resources Unit to help her arrive at committee objectives. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb announced the completion of Committee member Sims' orientation and the impending orientation for Committee member Farhat. He has assigned cases to committee members for their perusal prior to the upcoming meeting with LPD Internal Affairs. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, has prepared a summary of cases for the committee. He noted that a great deal of time has been spent recently working to wrap up seven complaints stemming from a single letter to Mayor Hollister. Paul McComb noted that City Attorney, Jim Smiertka, has declared the Board is acting appropriately by going into executive session to discuss the content of complaints under review by LPD Internal Affairs. This based on a September 19 decision of the Michigan Supreme Court in a Kent County case where an officer's lawyer was prevented from viewing an IA file. He noted that in order to hold an executive session, their must be a motion made, seconded and passed by a two-thirds majority. No votes may be taken while the Board is in executive session. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed reported that her Department is grappling with several priority issues including tax abatements, fair housing, vendor selection and their FY2002 budget proposal. A public hearing will soon be set to discuss an ordinance to fund the HR&CS Department utilizing a mandated formula. She noted that last month's stabbing at the Volunteers of America was not resident related. She also discussed the need for a youth needs assessment,the interim creation of a youth cultural center which utilizes the Boys and Girls Club and Hill Vocational Center, and the need to boost the visibility of the HR&CS Department particularly on the Internet. Dr. Rhodes-Reed announced that a Southside Summit would be held on Saturday. She noted that in internal City of Lansing posting would soon go up reference the position of HR&CS Deputy Director. She announced that this is Homeless Awareness Week and that an open house is to be held this weekend at a home on Chestnut Street which a couple donated to Loaves and Fishes. Commissioner Sims noted that the Advent House weekend day shelter was near capacity last Sunday morning. Dr. Rhodes-Reed commented that the State of Michigan will not be picking up shelter funding withdrawn by the Family Independence Agency. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Newcomb - had no additional comments. Commissioner O'Malley-expressed his appreciation to the officers receiving recognition in letters from members of the public. Commissioner Farhat - brought the November 17 scheduling of Silver Bells in the City to the Board's attention and thanked them for their support in the City's consideration of boarding up some nuisance homes. Commissioner Sims - spoke of her ride-along with Capt. Forrest and their experiences at L.A. Globe. She believes that the establishment and its practices should be of concern to the City. She described Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 4 what she observed as "craziness." Commissioner O'Malley- expressed his concern in matters at the L.A. Globe and offered to speak with the property owner to gather more information. Commissioner Meiorado - noted that she had attended a private function at the L.A. Globe which went smoothly, but she had some concerns over some activities of customers and employees whom she observed. She expressed her dismay that the Citizens Police Academy was being canceled due to lack of community participants. Commissioner Farhat recommended that the Department consider holding the Citizens Police Academy during a time of year when it would have less competition from other activities. Perhaps winter would be a good time. Commissioner Kowalk - expressed her appreciation to Commissioner Farhat for getting involved in the boarded up house campaign and for e-mailing commissioners reference same, for helping to coordinate the reception for former Board member Pete Canady which preceded tonight's meeting, to Commissioner O'Malley for his budget communique, and to the City in general and Dr. Rhodes-Reed specifically for support of SafeNight 2000. Commissioner Frederick - informed the Board that her move to a new position with Legal Aid of Central Michigan is now complete. One of her first client encounters in this position was with a City of Lansing citizen who required police assistance due to domestic violence. The client spoke highly of our young officer's assistance and courtesy. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Mark Alley Chief Alley discussed his Friday "Face-to-Face" session on youth violence and the Lansing State Journal article on the "Join the Team" cable show. He noted that the tv show shows marked improvement over the first few which LPD produced. He noted Capt. Forrest's training session at the Community Policing Consortium and mentioned recent visits to area high schools, commenting that students were more vocal and inquisitive in an afternoon session rather than at the beginning of the day. He brought the Board up-to-date on the procedure manual rewrite, warning them to be prepared to review as many as twenty-four new procedures for discussion at next month's meeting. The Chief also announced that Capt. Julie Williams will be attending the FBI Academy in January. Chief Alley mentioned new directives he is giving to the LPD Crime Analysis Unit related to working more closely with patrol teams. He has also called a press conference for tomorrow reference the conclusion of the first full year of the LPD Juvenile Diversion program. Further, he has accepted a gubernatorial appointment to sit on a board responsible for the distribution of grant funds to law enforcement agencies. He encouraged Board members to read an article by Stephen D. Mastrofski on community policing which was mailed to them previously. He announced the first LPD violent toy exchange made possible by a partnership with MEA and noted that the program was meant as a tool to encourage family discussions on the many violent messages to which young people are exposed, rather than an indictment on the toy industry in particular. A discussion with the NRA to this effect may have prevented a City Hall visit by Charleton Heston when he visited the Lansing area. Community forums and officer forums are to be held this weekend to gather input reference the Department's racial profiling study. Officer training will be conducted prior to any data collection efforts. Chief Alley expects to maintain a visible public profile on this topic making it clear that this Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2000 Page 5 is a pro-active endeavor to study the issue relative to our Department and not a "finger pointing" exercise. Commissioner Sims made the Board aware of Chief Alley's recent foray into the community as a uniformed patrol officer and noted that she would be guest host for Wilson Caldwell's radio program with a discussion on racial profiling. She also noted that a November 12 African-American Health Summit will be held at the Potter Park Zoo. OTHER BUSINESS None. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Derrick Quinney Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Linda Sims Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Patty Farhat Relations and Community Services Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Captain Steve Luciano Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS L"3 - Janet Strahan, CARE Program l --' Ann Gleason, Victim Advocate Program c, MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None. C") C.; _. CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA Board members approved the addition of the Education Committee Presentation immediately prior to Approval of Minutes. EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTATION Ann Gleason, Victim Advocate Program - provided Board members with information on this program, explaining that all participants are volunteers who assist the public at the request of officers, firefighters, and dispatchers. They respond to all types of incidents including larcenies, suicides, CSC cases, SIDS and fires. Volunteers in this program have helped plan funerals, clean up crime scenes processed by CSI, and enlisted the help of LPD Chaplains. Additionally, they will follow up later to see that needs have been adequately met. To date, this calendar year, volunteers have responded to seventy-one calls for service. Ms. Gleason founded the program two years ago at LPD. She may be contacted at 371-1920. The next volunteer orientation is scheduled for January. Janet Strahan, CARE Program - spoke on behalf of this grant-funded program which relies on paid staff and a volunteer base to respond to domestic violence cases. The program responds to every domestic violence arrest offering victim support. They listen and offer referral services. Follow-up is done at four-day, thirty-day and sixty-day intervals. The traditional 40-50 calls per month is increasing as they expand response area and services to now include cases where no arrest was made. There are presently sixty-four volunteer. Janet may be reached at 272-7436. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick Minutes of the regular meeting of August 15 were approved as written and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Reception for former Board member, Pete Canady - Originally planned for tonight, this reception will be held at 5:00 p.m. just prior to the October 17 meeting at the request of Mr. Canady's family. Commissioners Farhat and Sims will work with Jim DeLine to plan the event. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for August 2000 - Jim DeLine distributed the South Precinct section of this report which had been unavailable in time for the packet mailing. Commissioner O'Malley requested an update on incidents at the Spiral Bar and was told by Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse that disagreements between bar management and the community continue. While many calls are legitimate, some community members have attempted to inundate the Department with problem calls in order to create a "paper trail" consisting of an extraordinary number of complaints. Capt. Luciano has met with concerned parties. He noted that the special events hosted at the bar are the primary cause of problems. It was noted by several people that, regardless of the extent of conflict management / complaint resolution work, some people will continue to fight with those of opposing opinions on the bar's role in the community. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - Commissioner Frederick noted the decrease in use of restraints. Chief Perry noted that the introduction of mandatory restraint-use reports, increased training, a community mental health program, and cooler summer weather may all have contributed to this. Board members expressed appreciation at having this report made available to them. LPD News - Commissioners commended Det. Elizabeth Bonello on the creation of this communication tool to convey noteworthy information. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - Commissioner Newcomb asked for an update on the recruitment of women and minorities. Chief Perry reported that efforts continue in the recruitment and hiring of officers. She also noted that the staffing of the 911 Communications Center will be increasingly diverse based on the present roster of people in the hiring process. (In the Center, male employees are in the minority.) The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick noted that this committee needs to get better organized. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 3 She requested that the secretary make sure that City Council has a current Board roster. Commissioner Sims reported on the recent Human Relations & Community Services Board meeting, highlighting recent volunteer efforts in the City by MSU students, Volunteers of America issues and a grant awarded to Advent House. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick thanked Board members for the return of surveys and noted that topics of interest include policies and procedures, LPD services, drug and gang activity, racial profiling, and substance abuse. Board members also expressed an interest in the creation of a Board of Police Commissioners web site. Awards. Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley announced impending budget instructions from the Mayor's office for the creation of the FY2002 budget. He also reported that the Department's Budget Control Supervisor would be holding a seminar in October for front line supervisors on the creation and management of their respective budgets. Human Resources Committee - No report. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb announced that this committee would be changing the process by which it operates, including the review of more complaint files and a change in meeting dates. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, will continue to review all complaints and prepare a summary for the committee. He also reported receiving no feedback on the first annual report and informed the Board as to his involvement in the Fire Department investigation involving LFD personnel. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed reported that the HR&CS Board recently met at the Volunteers of America. VOA will offer day shelter services to men only and no lunches will be served. Day shelter services for women are being offered by the First Baptist Church. She explained that the grant to Advent House was from Michigan Works! She also addressed the issue of homeless people camping out behind the VOA. LPD is assisting to remedy the situation. Dr. Rhodes-Reed told the Board that her office, too, receives complaints reference the Spiral Bar. She also announced that she will be in attendance at the Chief's September 25 meeting to discuss LPD's approach to a racial profiling study. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Kowalk - discussed the upcoming Citizen's Police Academy, confirming that it will be held on Tuesdays at the South Precinct. Contact person for those interested is Ofc. Michelle Burkhardt. She also commented on how informational her orientation day at LPD was. Commissioner Sims - spoke very favorably on the LPD golf outing in support of the Lansing Police Athletic League. Commissioner Meiorado - is pleased that the Department is addressing the issue of racial profiling. Commissioner Farhat - announced that 150 people attended the Neighborhood Watch coordinator meeting. She also discussed the October 13-14 conference on human diversity. Commissioner O'Malley - warned Board members on the danger of leaving valuables in their vehicles Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 4 while on the golf course. His Board ID and badge were taken while he was golfing in Meridian Township. Commissioner Newcomb- reported that he has had the opportunity to observe LPD officers performing in approximately 20-25 situations and that all interactions with the public were positive ... makes a Board member feel good. Commissioner Quinney - lamented on the multiple demands this election year is making on his time. He supported the Board's move to contribute to the LPD golf outing and offered his Support. Commissioner Frederick - introduced the idea of using large, heavy blocks for crowd control. She witnessed this in her travels to Arles, France, during a bullfight festival. She also announced an impending change in her work phone as she will soon be moving to a new position with Legal Aid of Central Michigan. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse Chief Perry-Buse informed the Board of a "suicide tree" being formed at Pattengill Middle School. A student cut themselves and, though not life threatening, the wound created a great deal of bloodshed. Others on the tree are now to follow in order with suicide attempts. She announced the arrest of suspects in a series of home invasions in the Tecumseh River Drive area. She commented that this suspect is not believed to be connected with the recent assault on a ninety year old women during a home invasion. She commended the Meals on Wheels volunteer who reported trouble at the victim's home. Chief Perry announced that a warrant is being issued for a 17 year old boy believed to be responsible for the murder of a 15 year old. She went over the Central Services monthly report in order to address questions brought up by Board members in recent months, noting that the increase in subpoenas was due, partially, by the increase in the number of younger officers with initiative. She noted that insurance companies are decreasing their requests for accident reports, informing their customers that they should contact law enforcement agencies themselves. She also told the Board that the number of civilians being fingerprinted is increasing as more employers require it. The number of Hit and Run investigations closed by the Traffic Follow-Up Unit are decreasing as motorcycle officers now complete many of them. The number of adults incarcerated is decreasing due to the new policy of arresting people in Lansing on warrants from neighboring municipalities and not booking them in the jail, but driving them to the city limits for transfer. Other programs discussed by Chief Perry included monthly meetings with the Commission Investigator, a $5,000 MSU award for resolution mediation which will be directed to North Precinct, a CMH ride- along program to better identify preventive mental health related issues, a display at the Women's Hall of Fame on women in nontraditional jobs, the induction of Clarissa Young into the Women's Hall of Fame, and the upcoming dinners for LPD retirees and volunteers. OTHER BUSINESS None. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 5 PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:08 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - DRAFT - TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Derrick Quinney Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Linda Sims Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Patty Reed Relations and Community Services Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Captain Steve Luciano Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS Janet Strahan, CARE Program Ann Gleason, Victim Advocate Program - MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: Lt None. C`J CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA Board members approved the addition of the Education Committee Presentation immediately prior to Approval of Minutes. EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTATION Ann Gleason, Victim Advocate Program - provided Board members with information on this program, explaining that all participants are volunteers who assist the public at the request of officers, firefighters, and dispatchers. They respond to all types of incidents including larcenies, suicides, CSC cases, SIDS and fires. Volunteers in this program have helped plan funerals, clean up crime scenes processed by CSI, and enlisted the help of LPD Chaplains. Additionally, they will follow up later to see that needs have been adequately met. To date, this calendar year, volunteers have responded to seventy-one calls for service. Ms. Gleason founded the program two years ago at LPD. She may be contacted at 371-1920. The next volunteer orientation is scheduled for January. Janet Strahan, CARE Program-spoke on behalf of this grant-funded program which relies on paid staff and a volunteer base to respond to domestic violence cases. The program responds to every domestic violence arrest offering victim support. They listen and offer referral services. Follow-up is done at four-day, thirty-day and sixty-day intervals. The traditional 40-50 calls per month is increasing as they expand response area and services to now include cases where no arrest was made. There are presently sixty-four volunteer. Janet may be reached at 272-7436. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick Minutes of the regular meeting of August 15 were approved as written and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Reception for former Board member, Pete Canady - Originally planned for tonight, this reception will be held at 5:00 p.m. just prior to the October 17 meeting at the request of Mr. Canady's family. Commissioners Reed and Sims will work with Jim DeLine to plan the event. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for August 2000 - Jim DeLine distributed the South Precinct section of this report which had been unavailable in time for the packet mailing. Commissioner O'Malley requested an update on incidents at the Spiral Bar and was told by Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse that disagreements between bar management and the community continue. While many calls are legitimate, some community members have attempted to inundate the Department with problem calls in order to create a "paper trail" consisting of an extraordinary number of complaints. Capt. Luciano has met with concerned parties. He noted that the special events hosted at the bar are the primary cause of problems. It was noted by several people that, regardless of the extent of conflict management / complaint resolution work, some people will continue to fight with those of opposing opinions on the bar's role in the community. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - Commissioner Frederick noted the decrease in use of restraints. Chief Perry noted that the introduction of mandatory restraint-use reports, increased training, a community mental health program, and cooler summer weather may all have contributed to this. Board members expressed appreciation at having this report made available to them. LPD News - Commissioners commended Det. Elizabeth Bonello on the creation of this communication tool to convey noteworthy information. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - Commissioner Newcomb asked for an update on the recruitment of women and minorities. Chief Perry reported that efforts continue in the recruitment and hiring of officers. She also noted that the staffing of the 911 Communications Center will be increasingly diverse based on the present roster of people in the hiring process. (In the Center, male employees are in the minority.) The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick noted that this committee needs to get better organized. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 3 She requested that the secretary make sure that City Council has a current Board roster. Commissioner Sims reported on the recent Human Relations &Community Services Board meeting, highlighting recent volunteer efforts in the City by MSU students, Volunteers of America issues and a grant awarded to Advent House. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick thanked Board members for the return of surveys and noted that topics of interest include policies and procedures, LPD services, drug and gang activity, racial profiling, and substance abuse. Board members also expressed an interest in the creation of a Board of Police Commissioners web site. Awards Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley announced impending budget instructions from the Mayor's office for the creation of the FY2002 budget. He also reported that the Department's Budget Control Supervisor would be holding a seminar in October for front line supervisors on the creation and management of their respective budgets. Human Resources Committee - No report. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb announced that this committee would be changing the process by which it operates, including the review of more complaint files and a change in meeting dates. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, will continue to review all complaints and prepare a summary for the committee. He also reported receiving no feedback on the first annual report and informed the Board as to his involvement in the Fire Department investigation involving LFD personnel. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed reported that the HR&CS Board recently met at the Volunteers of America. VOA will offer day shelter services to men only and no lunches will be served. Day shelter services for women are being offered by the First Baptist Church. She explained that the grant to Advent House was from Michigan Works! She also addressed the issue of homeless people camping out behind the VOA. LPD is assisting to remedy the situation. Dr. Rhodes-Reed told the Board that her office, too, receives complaints reference the Spiral Bar. She also announced that she will be in attendance at the Chief's September 25 meeting to discuss LPD's approach to a racial profiling study. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Kowalk - discussed the upcoming Citizen's Police Academy, confirming that it will be held on Tuesdays at the South Precinct. Contact person for those interested is Ofc. Michelle Burkhardt. She also commented on how informational her orientation day at LPD was. Commissioner Sims - spoke very favorably on the LPD golf outing in support of the Lansing Police Athletic League. Commissioner Meiorado - is pleased that the Department is addressing the issue of racial profiling. Commissioner Reed - announced that 150 people attended the Neighborhood Watch coordinator meeting. She also discussed the October 13-14 conference on human diversity. Commissioner O'Malley - warned Board members on the danger of leaving valuables in their vehicles Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 4 while on the golf course. His Board ID and badge were taken while he was golfing in Meridian Township. Commissioner Newcomb - reported that he has had the opportunity to observe LPD officers performing in approximately 20-25 situations and that all interactions with the public were positive ... makes a Board member feel good. Commissioner Quinney - lamented on the multiple demands this election year is making on his time. He supported the Board's move to contribute to the LPD golf outing and offered his Support. Commissioner Frederick - introduced the idea of using large, heavy blocks for crowd control. She witnessed this in her travels to Arles, France, during a bullfight festival. She also announced an impending change in her work phone as she will soon be moving to a new position with Legal Aid of Central Michigan. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse Chief Perry-Buse informed the Board of a "suicide tree" being formed at Pattengill Middle School. A student cut themselves and, though not life threatening, the wound created a great deal of bloodshed. Others on the tree are now to follow in order with suicide attempts. She announced the arrest of suspects in a series of home invasions in the Tecumseh River Drive area. She commented that this suspect is not believed to be connected with the recent assault on a ninety year old women during a home invasion. She commended the Meals on Wheels volunteer who reported trouble at the victim's home. Chief Perry announced that a warrant is being issued for a 17 year old boy believed to be responsible for the murder of a 15 year old. She went over the Central Services monthly report in order to address questions brought up by Board members in recent months, noting that the increase in subpoenas was due, partially, by the increase in the number of younger officers with initiative. She noted that insurance companies are decreasing their requests for accident reports, informing their customers that they should contact law enforcement agencies themselves. She also told the Board that the number of civilians being fingerprinted is increasing as more employers require it. The number of Hit and Run investigations closed by the Traffic Follow-Up Unit are decreasing as motorcycle officers now complete many of them. The number of adults incarcerated is decreasing due to the new policy of arresting people in Lansing on warrants from neighboring municipalities and not booking them in the jail, but driving them to the city limits for transfer. Other programs discussed by Chief Perry included monthly meetings with the Commission Investigator, a $5,000 MSU award for resolution mediation which will be directed to North Precinct, a CMH ride- along program to better identify preventive mental health related issues, a display at the Women's Hall of Fame on women in nontraditional jobs, the induction of Clarissa Young into the Women's Hall of Fame, and the upcoming dinners for LPD retirees and volunteers. OTHER BUSINESS None. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 5 PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:08 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - DRAFT - TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse'`` Commissioner Derrick Quinney Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Linda Sims Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Dr. Genice Rhodes-Farhat, Director of Human Commissioner Patty Farhat Relations and Community Services Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Captain Steve Luciano Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS Janet Strahan, CARE Program Ann Gleason, Victim Advocate Program MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None. CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA Board members approved the addition of the Education Committee Presentation immediately prior to Approval of Minutes. EDUCATION COMMITTEE PRESENTATION Ann Gleason, Victim Advocate Program - provided Board members with information on this program, explaining that all participants are volunteers who assist the public at the request of officers, firefighters, and dispatchers. They respond to all types of incidents including larcenies, suicides, CSC cases, SIDS and fires. Volunteers in this program have helped plan funerals, clean up crime scenes processed by CSI, and enlisted the help of LPD Chaplains. Additionally, they will follow up later to see that needs have been adequately met. To date, this calendar year, volunteers have responded to seventy-one calls for service. Ms. Gleason founded the program two years ago at LPD. She may be contacted at 371-1920. The next volunteer orientation is scheduled for January. Janet Strahan, CARE Program -spoke on behalf of this grant-funded program which relies on paid staff and a volunteer base to respond to domestic violence cases. The program responds to every domestic violence arrest offering victim support. They listen and offer referral services. Follow-up is done at four-day, thirty-day and sixty-day intervals. The traditional 40-50 calls per month is increasing as they expand response area and services to now include cases where no arrest was made. There are presently sixty-four volunteer. Janet may be reached at 272-7436. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick Minutes of the regular meeting of August 15 were approved as written and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Reception for former Board member, Pete Canady - Originally planned for tonight, this reception will be held at 5:00 p.m. just prior to the October 17 meeting at the request of Mr. Canady's family. Commissioners Farhat and Sims will work with Jim DeLine to plan the event. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for August 2000 - Jim DeLine distributed the South Precinct section of this report which had been unavailable in time for the packet mailing. Commissioner O'Malley requested an update on incidents at the Spiral Bar and was told by Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse that disagreements between bar management and the community continue. While many calls are legitimate, some community members have attempted to inundate the Department with problem calls in order to create a "paper trail" consisting of an extraordinary number of complaints. Capt. Luciano has met with concerned parties. He noted that the special events hosted at the bar are the primary cause of problems. It was noted by several people that, regardless of the extent of conflict management / complaint resolution work, some people will continue to fight with those of opposing opinions on the bar's role in the community. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Detention Report - Commissioner Frederick noted the decrease in use of restraints. Chief Perry noted that the introduction of mandatory restraint-use reports, increased training, a community mental health program, and cooler summer weather may all have contributed to this. Board members expressed appreciation at having this report made available to them. LPD News - Commissioners commended Det. Elizabeth Bonello on the creation of this communication tool to convey noteworthy information. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - Commissioner Newcomb asked for an update on the recruitment of women and minorities. Chief Perry reported that efforts continue in the recruitment and hiring of officers. She also noted that the staffing of the 911 Communications Center will be increasingly diverse based on the present roster of people in the hiring process. (In the Center, male employees are in the minority.) The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick noted that this committee needs to get better organized. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 3 She requested that the secretary make sure that City Council has a current Board roster. Commissioner Sims reported on the recent Human Relations &Community Services Board meeting, highlighting recent volunteer efforts in the City by MSU students, Volunteers of America issues and a grant awarded to Advent House. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick thanked Board members for the return of surveys and noted that topics of interest include policies and procedures, LPD services, drug and gang activity, racial profiling, and substance abuse. Board members also expressed an interest in the creation of a Board of Police Commissioners web site. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley announced impending budget instructions from the Mayor's office for the creation of the FY2002 budget. He also reported that the Department's Budget Control Supervisor would be holding a seminar in October for front line supervisors on the creation and management of their respective budgets. Human Resources Committee - No report. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb announced that this committee would be changing the process by which it operates, including the review of more complaint files and a change in meeting dates. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, will continue to review all complaints and prepare a summary for the committee. He also reported receiving no feedback on the first annual report and informed the Board as to his involvement in the Fire Department investigation involving LFD personnel. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Farhat reported that the HR&CS Board recently met at the Volunteers of America. VOA will offer day shelter services to men only and no lunches will be served. Day shelter services for women are being offered by the First Baptist Church. She explained that the grant to Advent House was from Michigan Works! She also addressed the issue of homeless people camping out behind the VOA. LPD is assisting to remedy the situation. Dr. Rhodes-Farhat told the Board that her office, too, receives complaints reference the Spiral Bar. She also announced that she will be in attendance at the Chief's September 25 meeting to discuss LPD's approach to a racial profiling study. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Kowalk - discussed the upcoming Citizen's Police Academy, confirming that it will be held on Tuesdays at the South Precinct. Contact person for those interested is Ofc. Michelle Burkhardt. She also commented on how informational her orientation day at LPD was. Commissioner Sims - spoke very favorably on the LPD golf outing in support of the Lansing Police Athletic League. Commissioner Meiorado - is pleased that the Department is addressing the issue of racial profiling. Commissioner Farhat - announced that 150 people attended the Neighborhood Watch coordinator meeting. She also discussed the October 13-14 conference on human diversity. Commissioner O'Malley - warned Board members on the danger of leaving valuables in their vehicles Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 4 while on the golf course. His Board ID and badge were taken while he was golfing in Meridian Township. Commissioner Newcomb - reported that he has had the opportunity to observe LPD officers performing in approximately 20-25 situations and that all interactions with the public were positive ... makes a Board member feel good. Commissioner Quinney - lamented on the multiple demands this election year is making on his time. He supported the Board's move to contribute to the LPD golf outing and offered his Support. Commissioner Frederick - introduced the idea of using large, heavy blocks for crowd control. She witnessed this in her travels to Arles, France, during a bullfight festival. She also announced an impending change in her work phone as she will soon be moving to a new position with Legal Aid of Central Michigan. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse Chief Perry-Buse informed the Board of a "suicide tree" being formed at Pattengill Middle School. A student cut themselves and, though not life threatening, the wound created a great deal of bloodshed. Others on the tree are now to follow in order with suicide attempts. She announced the arrest of suspects in a series of home invasions in the Tecumseh River Drive area. She commented that this suspect is not believed to be connected with the recent assault on a ninety year old women during a home invasion. She commended the Meals on Wheels volunteer who reported trouble at the victim's home. Chief Perry announced that a warrant is being issued for a 17 year old boy believed to be responsible for the murder of a 15 year old. She went over the Central Services monthly report in order to address questions brought up by Board members in recent months, noting that the increase in subpoenas was due, partially, by the increase in the number of younger officers with initiative. She noted that insurance companies are decreasing their requests for accident reports, informing their customers that they should contact law enforcement agencies themselves. She also told the Board that the number of civilians being fingerprinted is increasing as more employers require it. The number of Hit and Run investigations closed by the Traffic Follow-Up Unit are decreasing as motorcycle officers now complete many of them. The number of adults incarcerated is decreasing due to the new policy of arresting people in Lansing on warrants from neighboring municipalities and not booking them in the jail, but driving them to the city limits for transfer. Other programs discussed by Chief Perry included monthly meetings with the Commission Investigator, a $5,000 MSU award for resolution mediation which will be directed to North Precinct, a CMH ride- along program to better identify preventive mental health related issues, a display at the Women's Hall of Fame on women in nontraditional jobs, the induction of Clarissa Young into the Women's Hall of Fame, and the upcoming dinners for LPD retirees and volunteers. OTHER BUSINESS None. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of September 19, 2000 Page 5 PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:08 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - TUESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Relations and Community Services Commissioner Roger Newcomb MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: MEMBERS EXCUSED: None. Commissioner Derrick Quinney CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENGA Discussion of a possible Board contribution to the LPD Golf Outing was added to the agenda without objection. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick Minutes of the regular meeting of July 25 were approved and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Committee Assignments - Chairperson Frederick announced the following committee assignments: Liaison Committee Budget Committee Deb Frederick Kevin O'Malley, Chair Derrick Quinney Human Resources Committee Education Committee Sandra Kowalk, Chair Deb Frederick, Chair Derrick Quinney Maria Mejorado Sandra Kowalk Complaint Committee Roger Newcomb, Chair Awards & Incentives Committee Patty Farhat-Reed Patty Farhat-Reed, Co-Chair Linda Sims Maria Mejorado, Co-Chair Alternating members: Deb Frederick, Derrick Quinney Commissioner Frederick encouraged committee chairs to recruit other members to serve on their respective committees, noting in the case of the Awards & Incentive Committee that members from Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of August 15, 2000 Page 2 outside the Board may be appropriate. She also noted that new members of the Complaint Committee will need to schedule a training session reference confidentiality before attending their first monthly meeting with the LPD Internal Affairs Unit. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for July 2000 - Jim DeLine distributed a revised page 12 (Central Services report), but questions remained involving Traffic Follow-Up, firearm registrations and hit and run accidents. Chief Alley offered to become more familiar with the report and be able to answer questions. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Newcomb noted the increase in calls. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The absence of a Chief of Police on this report prompted Jim DeLine to agree to review its accuracy. The Staffing Report was placed on file with a corrected version to follow. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick agreed to follow up on the correspondence sent to Councilmember Murphy requesting a joint meeting. She also reported on the most recent meeting of the Human Relations and Community Services board, commenting that they discussed inviting Lansing School Superintendent Banks to meet with them. Commissioner Frederick suggested that a joint meeting with HR&CS be held since both boards wished to meet with Dr. Banks. Education Committee - Surveys still need to be returned reference education topics. Commissioner Farhat-Reed suggested Janet Strahan (CARE program) be invited to speak and it was agreed that she would be a good representative of a LPD volunteer effort. Awards. Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed announced that her committee will be meeting with Sgt. Baylis on a quarterly basis to discuss possible award nominees. It was suggested that members of the Friends of LPD be invited to assist this committee. Commissioner Sims volunteered to assist with the annual awards presentation. Budget Sub-Committee - No report. Human Resources Committee - No report. Complaint Committee- Commissioner Frederick reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions answered. She noted that suggested changes to the detention center use of video recording will be forthcoming as a result of complaints generated. Commissioner Newcomb noted the increase in complaints sustained by Internal Affairs commenting that this reflected a positive change in their process. The presence of complaints against Communication Center employees prompted a discussion on Center staffing, turnover, stress and employee mistakes. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of August 15, 2000 Page 3 Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, welcomed new members assigned to the Complaint Committee and reminded them that he is available to meet with them on a weekly basis. Commissioner Farhat-Reed said that she will be encouraging him to increase his presence in the community. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed reported that copies of the Commission Investigator's annual report have been distributed. She also reported that HR&CS is looking into safety issues at the Volunteers of America shelter as well as day shelter issues in general. She announced a special meeting of the HR&CS board to be held at VOA August 24 at 6:00 p.m. and its regular monthly at Advent House on September 7 at 7:00 p.m. Paul Novak is the new board chair. The HR&CS Department also has a new secretary. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Farhat-Reed -thanked Chief Alley for his attendance at the National Night Out event and noted that follow-up needs to be done with the cadets who failed to participate. She announced a City-wide Neighborhood Watch Coordinator meeting to be held September 11 in the South Precinct Gym at 6:30 p.m. Commissioner Sims - thanked Chief Alley for his participation in the African American Parade and Picnic. The event was very successful demonstrating good officer / community interaction. She also encouraged Board members to occasionally attend officer line-up meetings ... but warned them to bring goodies! Commissioner Newcomb - had no additional comments. Commissioner Kowalk - expressed her disappointment at not being invited to the City Council recognition of former Board member, Pete Canady. A discussion followed on Council's seeming lack of preparedness and outdated list of Board members. Jim DeLine will update them. It was suggested that the Board host a reception for former member Canady at 5:00 p.m. preceding its September meeting. Commissioners Frederick, Farhat-Reed and Sims will coordinate. Commissioner Kowalk also reminded the secretary of her request for a copy of the LPD annual report. He again promised her it would be forthcoming. Commissioner Frederick - had no additional comments. Commissioners Meiorado and O'Malley - needed to leave the meeting prior to Commissioners' Comments. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Alley Chief Alley distributed a list of issues being worked out with the landlord of LPD's North Precinct facility. He noted that, though the list has been reduced, steps to resolve remaining issues are being discussed among the City's legal and financial departments. The Chief announced the introduction of two new patrol efforts. First, the use of "slick top" cars equipped with video equipment to enhance enforcement of alcohol offenses. He noted that 30 new PBT units are being distributed to the officers with the most number of OUIL arrests. Commissioner Newcomb asked if Lansing was experiencing an excessive number of establishments serving alcohol to minors. Chief Alley expressed that we did not. Secondly, he announced the use of patrol officers to check CSC offender registration accuracy. This Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of August 15, 2000 Page 4 activity involves officers knocking on doors, thus making offenders cognizant that the police are aware of their presence. This activity has been proven to reduce rape incidents in other municipalities. He discussed the Lansing Rotary Club's use of the North Precinct and commented that he is hearing from other civic groups as a result of the successful Rotary event. He noted that the updating of procedures is progressing as planned and a new procedure is being initiated whereby LPD officers will transport people arrested on warrants from neighboring municipalities to the borders of those municipalities and into the hands of the corrsponding officer. Chief Alley has met with Dr. Carter reference his working with the Department on racial profiling issues. Dr. Carter will outline a proposal for our consideration. The Chief announced that Ingham County is approving an additional payment to the City of approximately $200,000 to fund the additional personnel expenses mandated by the FOP - 911 settlement. Chief Alley is presently attending various "safe schools" summits and will be serving as an adjunct professor at MSU this fall teaching a course in criminal investigations. He noted the success of the African American Parade and Picnic and also the Neighborhood Watch picnic. He announced an upcoming "train the trainer" session as the Department prepares for additional employee training in community policing and diversity issues. Lastly, Chief Alley commended both sworn and non-sworn LPD employees for the good work they are doing. OTHER BUSINESS Support of the LPD Golf Outing -Jim DeLine reminded the Board of its history of support for this event. Funds raised are donated to the Lansing Police Athletic League. A motion was passed to purchase a $100 tee sponsorship in the Board's name. Each commissioner vowed to contribute $12.50 toward this purchase. On behalf of the outing, Jim DeLine thanked the Board and promised each member their choice of a PAL hat or t-shirt. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:52 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES DRAFT - TUESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Relations and Community Services Commissioner Roger Newcomb MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: MEMBERS EXCUSED: None. Commissioner Derrick Quinney CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENGA Discussion of a possible Board contribution to the LPD Golf Outing was added to the agenda without objection. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick Minutes of the regular meeting of July 25 were approved and placed on file. �- co UNFINISHED BUSINESS Committee Assignments - Chairperson Frederick announced the following committee assignments: Liaison Committee Budget Committee Deb Frederick Kevin O'Malley, Chair Derrick Quinney Human Resources Committee Education Committee Sandra Kowalk, Chair Deb Frederick, Chair Derrick Quinney Maria Mejorado Sandra Kowalk Complaint Committee Roger Newcomb, Chair Awards & Incentives Committee Patty Farhat-Reed Patty Farhat-Reed, Co-Chair Linda Sims Maria Mejorado, Co-Chair Alternating members: Deb Frederick, Derrick Quinney Commissioner Frederick encouraged committee chairs to recruit other members to serve on their respective committees, noting in the case of the Awards & Incentive Committee that members from Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of August 15, 2000 Page 2 outside the Board may be appropriate. She also noted that new members of the Complaint Committee will need to schedule a training session reference confidentiality before attending their first monthly meeting with the LPD Internal Affairs Unit. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No representative present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for July 2000 - Jim DeLine distributed a revised page 12 (Central Services report), but questions remained involving Traffic Follow-Up, firearm registrations and hit and run accidents. Chief Alley offered to become more familiar with the report and be able to answer questions. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Newcomb noted the increase in calls. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The absence of a Chief of Police on this report prompted Jim DeLine to agree to review its accuracy. The Staffing Report was placed on file with a corrected version to follow. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Frederick agreed to follow up on the correspondence sent to Councilmember Murphy requesting a joint meeting. She also reported on the most recent meeting of the Human Relations and Community Services board, commenting that they discussed inviting Lansing School Superintendent Banks to meet with them. Commissioner Frederick suggested that a joint meeting with HR&CS be held since both boards wished to meet with Dr. Banks. Education Committee - Surveys still need to be returned reference education topics. Commissioner Farhat-Reed suggested Janet Strahan (CARE program) be invited to speak and it was agreed that she would be a good representative of a LPD volunteer effort. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee- Commissioner Farhat-Reed announced that her committee will be meeting with Sgt. Baylis on a quarterly basis to discuss possible award nominees. It was suggested that members of the Friends of LPD be invited to assist this committee. Commissioner Sims volunteered to assist with the annual awards presentation. Budget Sub-Committee - No report. Human Resources Committee - No report. Complaint Committee- Commissioner Frederick reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions answered. She noted that suggested changes to the detention center use of video recording will be forthcoming as a result of complaints generated. Commissioner Newcomb noted the increase in complaints sustained by Internal Affairs commenting that this reflected a positive change in their process. The presence of complaints against Communication Center employees prompted a discussion on Center staffing, turnover, stress and employee mistakes. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of August 15, 2000 Page 3 Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, welcomed new members assigned to the Complaint Committee and reminded them that he is available to meet with them on a weekly basis. Commissioner Farhat-Reed said that she will be encouraging him to increase his presence in the community. HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed reported that copies of the Commission Investigator's annual report have been distributed. She also reported that HR&CS is looking into safety issues at the Volunteers of America shelter as well as day shelter issues in general. She announced a special meeting of the HR&CS board to be held at VOA August 24 at 6:00 p.m. and its regular monthly at Advent House on September 7 at 7:00 p.m. Paul Novak is the new board chair. The HR&CS Department also has a new secretary. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Farhat-Reed-thanked Chief Alley for his attendance at the National Night Out event and noted that follow-up needs to be done with the cadets who failed to participate. She announced a City-wide Neighborhood Watch Coordinator meeting to be held September 11 in the South Precinct Gym at 6:30 p.m. Commissioner Sims - thanked Chief Alley for his participation in the African American Parade and Picnic. The event was very successful demonstrating good officer / community interaction. She also encouraged Board members to occasionally attend officer line-up meetings ... but warned them to bring goodies! Commissioner Newcomb - had no additional comments. Commissioner Kowalk - expressed her disappointment at not being invited to the City Council recognition of former Board member, Pete Canady. A discussion followed on Council's seeming lack of preparedness and outdated list of Board members. Jim DeLine will update them. It was suggested that the Board host a reception for former member Canady at 5:00 p.m. preceding its September meeting. Commissioners Frederick, Farhat-Reed and Sims will coordinate. Commissioner Kowalk also reminded the secretary of her request for a copy of the LPD annual report. He again promised her it would be forthcoming. Commissioner Frederick - had no additional comments. Commissioners Meiorado and O'Malley - needed to leave the meeting prior to Commissioners' Comments. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Alley Chief Alley distributed a list of issues being worked out with the landlord of LPD's North Precinct facility. He noted that, though the list has been reduced, steps to resolve remaining issues are being discussed among the City's legal and financial departments. The Chief announced the introduction of two new patrol efforts. First, the use of "slick top" cars equipped with video equipment to enhance enforcement of alcohol offenses. He noted that 30 new PBT units are being distributed to the officers with the most number of OUIL arrests. Commissioner Newcomb asked if Lansing was experiencing an excessive number of establishments serving alcohol to minors. Chief Alley expressed that we did not. Secondly, he announced the use of patrol officers to check CSC offender registration accuracy. This Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of August 15, 2000 Page 4 activity involves officers knocking on doors, thus making offenders cognizant that the police are aware of their presence. This activity has been proven to reduce rape incidents in other municipalities. He discussed the Lansing Rotary Club's use of the North Precinct and commented that he is hearing from other civic groups as a result of the successful Rotary event. He noted that the updating of procedures is progressing as planned and a new procedure is being initiated whereby LPD officers will transport people arrested on warrants from neighboring municipalities to the borders of those municipalities and into the hands of the corrsponding officer. Chief Alley has met with Dr. Carter reference his working with the Department on racial profiling issues. Dr. Carter will outline a proposal for our consideration. The Chief announced that Ingham County is approving an additional payment to the City of approximately $200,000 to fund the additional personnel expenses mandated by the FOP - 911 settlement. Chief Alley is presently attending various "safe schools" summits and will be serving as an adjunct professor at MSU this fall teaching a course in criminal investigations. He noted the success of the African American Parade and Picnic and also the Neighborhood Watch picnic. He announced an upcoming "train the trainer" session as the Department prepares for additional employee training in community policing and diversity issues. Lastly, Chief Alley commended both sworn and non-sworn LPD employees for the good work they are doing. OTHER BUSINESS Support of the LPD Golf Outing -Jim DeLine reminded the Board of its history of support for this event. Funds raised are donated to the Lansing Police Athletic League. A motion was passed to purchase a $100 tee sponsorship in the Board's name. Each commissioner vowed to contribute $12.50 toward this purchase. On behalf of the outing, Jim DeLine thanked the Board and promised each member their choice of a PAL hat or t-shirt. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:52 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JULY 25, 2000 19 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Mark Alley Commissioner Derrick Quinney Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Linda Sims Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Sandra Kowalk Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Relations and Community Services Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS: Carol Wood, City Council Tom Krug, FOP MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None. CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. She introduced and welcomed Commissioner Kowalk to the board. Without objection, Chairperson Frederick changed the order of the agenda to allow specific items of business to be transacted before Paul McComb and Commissioner Sims needed to leave the meeting. As a result, consideration of Other Business items A and B (new procedures) and C (election of officers) were moved to the beginning of the meeting, immediately following Public Comment and FOP Business. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items City Councilmember Carol Wood - As Vice Chair of the Public Safety Committee, she announced that a tribute will be paid to former Board member Pete Canady for his service to the City. He was Chair of the Board during some tough times. Councilmember Wood will contact Jim DeLine to give the Board specific information as to the date of the tribute. Commissioner Frederick added that the Board will also be passing a resolution commending Pete for his work. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Tom Krug, Executive Director, endorsed Commissioner O'Malley for Chairperson of the Board on behalf of the FOP. He noted that Commissioner O'Malley is open minded, does not espouse a political agenda, and is willing to ask questions on issues. OTHER BUSINESS Police Board Meetings Procedure - Paul McComb explained to the Board that, with the passing of a motion at the last meeting which changed the month of the Board's elections, a language change was necessitated. This change has been approved by City Council and is now presented to the Board for information only. Police Board Critical Incident Briefings and Complaint Review Committee Procedure - Paul McComb presented the procedure to the Board. Commissioner Newcomb asked the significance of the July 5 Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of July 25, 2000 Page 2 adoption notation on page two. It was agreed that this appears in error and should be deleted. The procedure was passed as amended. Election of Board Officers - Chair nominations for Commissioner Frederick and Commissioner O'Malley were made and seconded. Each candidate spoke briefly. A secret ballot was taken at the Board's request. Commissioner Frederick was elected Chair by a vote of five to three. Vice Chair nominations for Commissioner Quinney and Commissioner O'Malley were made and seconded. Each candidate spoke briefly and again a secret ballot was taken. Commissioner Quinney was elected Vice Chair by a vote of five to three. By acclamation, Jim DeLine was appointed secretary. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of June 20 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Tribute to Pete Canady - The Board agreed to present former Commissioner Canady with a resolution to acknowledge his years on the Board. Commissioners Farhat-Reed and Frederick will coordinate preparation of the document with Jim DeLine. Commissioner Frederick agreed to work with City Councilmember Carol Wood to see if a reception might also be arranged to take place the same evening as presentation of a City Council resolution. Annual Report - Commissioner O'Malley inquired as to whether this report had been submitted, or whether is should be considered Unfinished Business. The collective Board recalled discussing the Annual Report. Jim DeLine was asked to check minutes for references to the report and to obtain copies for Commissioners O'Malley and Kowalk. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioners commented on the letter from Dan Munford who commended LPD dispatchers and officers on their efforts to locate his missing police dog. What happened to the dog? Jim DeLine agreed to find out. Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for June 2000 - Commissioner Kowalk asked the reason for year-to-date number of warrants processed showing a marked increase from last year at this time. Chief Alley agreed to look into it. Commissioner Newcomb expressed pleasure at the inclusion of DB highlights from the precincts. Commissioner Quinney discussed the gang analysis being conducted. Chief Alley explained how he was requesting gang information be updated more often. He noted that Ofc. Seyka will continue to work in Special Operations in his position as detective. Officers McAllister and Woods have been assigned to the unit, but Lt. Lawrence has not yet announced who will replace Seyka as the grant Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of July 25, 2000 Page 3 funded gang officer. Commissioner Frederick discussed the analysis of safety on the rivertrail. Chief Alley explained how most complaints are officer initiated as they patrol the riverwalk and notice problems. He announced that the Department is working with CenturyTel to install cell phones for emergency use along the trail. The riverwalk is very safe and popular. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Quinney requested information on the increase in calls for service. Chief Alley noted that LPD calls for services are up as we know send officers to take reports on auto B&E's and other non-emergency situations. A discussion on the use of 483-4600 as opposed to 911 was held in which Commissioner Farhat-Reed pointed out the lack of the "4600" number in the phone book. Chief Alley pointed out that the Department provides "4600" stickers for display in the home. He also assigned Jim DeLine to investigate the phone book omission. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reported that he had not yet received a response from City Council on the latest correspondence requesting a joint meeting. He and Commissioner Frederick will contact Councilmember Wood to follow up. Education Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that surveys supplied to Board members have not yet been returned. She encouraged members to return them and, in the interim, suggested that the Education Committee offer information regarding Department use of volunteers and bring in the new school superintendent as a guest. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee - No report. Human Resources Committee - Assignments to this committee are pending. Complaint Committee- Commissioner Quinney reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions answered. Commissioner Frederick expressed her appreciation for Lt. Beiderwieden's contributions to this committee during his tenure in Internal Affairs. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, distributed his completed annual report for 1999. Commissioner Frederick requested that the Mayor and members of City Council be given copies as soon as possible. Chief Alley expressed interest in making the report available on-line. HUMAN SERVICES AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed commended Bernard Brantley for his initiative in putting together the first annual report for his office. She assured the Board that she and Mr. Brantley would arrange the appropriate distribution. She looks forward to working with the new Chief. She also announced a change of date for the Human Relations and Community Services Board meeting from August 3 to August 10. This board presently has openings. Dr. Rhodes-Reed encouraged board members to submit names of those citizens who might be appropriate. The Mayor is seeking people with a broad Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of July 25, 2000 Page 4 background as the HR&CS Board works with everything from service contracts to communications with the Police Department. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Quinney-welcomed Commissioner Kowalk to the Board and expressed his appreciation to Bernard Brantley and Dr. Rhodes-Reed for the work they did on their annual report. Commissioner O'Malley - welcomed Commissioner Kowalk to the Board and gave kudos to the Department for its excellent work at the Common Ground festival. He is glad to see that people feel comfortable coming to downtown Lansing for events such as this. Commissioner Farhat-Reed -welcomed Commissioner Kowalk to the Board and commended Sgt. Klaus for the coordination of LPD's Common Ground efforts. She expressed disappointment at the shape of Dive Team's launch and reminded Jim DeLine that he needs to distribute approved Board minutes to precincts. She announced the Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board Annual Picnic and her traditional pool party. Board members were encouraged to attend both events. Commissioner Newcomb - welcomed Commissioner Kowalk to the Board. Commissioner Kowalk - expressed her appreciation for the challenge of serving on the Board. She brought some areas of her expertise to the Board's attention as she volunteered to serve on whichever committee the Chair felt would be appropriate. Commissioner Meiorado - welcomed Commissioner Kowalk to the Board and congratulated Commissioners Frederick and Quinney on their leadership reappointments. She expressed her appreciation to Chief Alley for his outreach efforts to Board members and to Lt. Hall for keeping members informed via fax of Department happenings. Commissioner Frederick - thanked Board members for their support of her leadership. She expressed her appreciation to officers for their work at the Common Ground festival noting that officers were cordial and ever-present. She remarked that the public seems to be well behaved at events where alcohol is served as long as there is a strong officer presence. She welcomed Chief Alley to his new position and is impressed with promotion decisions he has made thus far. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Alley Chief Alley congratulated Commissioners Frederick and Quinney on their reelection to leadership and welcomed Commissioner Kowalk to the Board. He thanked Board members for the enjoyable breakfast / lunch orientations held thus far. He appreciated the opportunity to discuss promotions with as many Board members as possible before the promotions were announced. He thanked Board members for their positive comments on Common Ground and felt that the festival, as a whole, was very successful. The Chief discussed the issue of racial profiling and distributed materials on the value / misunderstood value of using statistics to define the issue. He is beginning work on a proposal to study the issue relative to LPD and the City of Lansing and hopes to bring in MSU professor Dr. David Carter to assist. He vowed to approach the topic in a "thoughtful, broadminded" manner and will encourage union leaders to assist. When the administration is set to begin a process of study / data accumulation, he will ensure that officers are aware of it. He announced the reduction in Part I crimes by ten percent but noted that Criminal Sexual Conduct cases have increased. Though, by raw numbers, it is only an increase of 13 cases, he plans to monitor Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of July 25, 2000 Page 5 these crimes for any indication of trends. Chief Alley discussed the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit commenting that LPD recently needed to make use of the State Police to process a crime scene. He feels that the reduced size of the LPD CSI Unit is appropriate and plans to train officers to process prints on automobiles to broaden their knowledge base and reduce the CSI workload. He discussed the updating of procedures and announced the use of light duty officers to, hopefully, have them updated for printing in October. The Chief also discussed his efforts to be present at multiple shift line-ups in order to gauge the morale of officers. His impression is that officers presently are feeling good about themselves, their jobs and their contribution to the City of Lansing. He also announced Parole Probation Officer Week and noted that he recognized it by writing letters of appreciation to probation officers. OTHER BUSINESS Appointment of Committee Chairs - Commissioner Frederick asked that Board members contact her with any assignment preferences which they may have before she make appointments. PUBLIC COMMENT Tom Krug - commented that the FOP unions are looking forward to working with Chief Alley. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:16 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 2000 09 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Acting Chief Andy George Commissioner Derrick Quinney Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse ' Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Pete Canady Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Relations and Community Services MEMBERS EXCUSED: GUESTS: Commissioner Roger Newcomb Joe Graves, Chief of Staff Sharon Bommarito, Director of Personnel Services Willard Walker, Former Board Member Capt. Mark Alley MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: See Addendum A CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Julie Teed - Commended the Mayor and Selection Committee on the recommendation of Capt. Mark Alley to be the next Chief of Police. She noted that the three internal people vying for the position were all worthy candidates. Antonia Miernik, President of Genessee Neighborhood Association - Noted Capt. Alley's knowledge of neighborhood issues in her support of his name being put forth as Chief of Police. Tom Powers, North Lansing Neighborhood Association - Said he was very happy that an internal candidate was being recommended by the Mayor. He said Capt. Alley was a wise choice. Judy Hackett, North Precinct Advisory Board - Commented on the high caliber of the three internal candidates and supported the recommendation of Capt. Alley. Tom Westgate, South Lansing Business Association - Noted Capt. Alley's contributions to the community and voiced his support for Capt. Alley to be named Chief. Gary Hartman - Said he was pleased that an internal candidate was being recommended. He hoped that the new Chief would increase the number of officers assigned to Neighborhood Watch duties. Dale Glynn, Principal of Everett High School -Commented on Capt. Alley's work in gaining grant money and advancing technology in the Department. He noted Capt. Alley's farsightedness in his support of him for the position of Chief. Wilson Leek, CUTT Program -Was present to show his support for Capt. Alley for the position of Chief. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 2 Karrie Potter, Juvenile Grants Administrator - Expressed her appreciation that an internal candidate is being recommended and spoke highly of Capt. Alley's support for community policing. Darnell Oldham, Churchill Downs Community Association - Charged the incoming Chief to support the expansion of community policing. He spoke highly of Team 13's community policing work. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Commissioner O'Malley requested that a) a break be added to the agenda following the consideration of then Chief of Police recommendation, b) a revision to Administrative Procedure 99-A5 be considered under Other Business and c) action be considered on the proposed revision. Commissioner Frederick requested that the liaison from Human Relations and Community Services be given a permenent place on the Board's agenda for comments and a report. Without objection, all items were added to the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of May 23 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Mayor's Recommendation for Chief of Police- Commissioner Frederick reviewed the history of, and the procedures used, in the selection process including the Board's responsibility in the City Charter to approve the Mayor's recommended candidate by a majority vote of those serving on the Board. Board members questioned Capt. Alley in turn until no further questions came forth. Issues raised included community policing, commitment to neighborhood watch, diversity, racial profiling and more. Capt. Alley voiced his belief that all officers adopt a community policing philosophy including neighborhood watch responsibility. He commented that his success as Chief will be directly correlated to the support of front line patrol officers in performing their duties effectively. He expressed his support for training as a means of supplying young officers with the tools they need including the ability to work with a diverse community. He applauded Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse's contribution to increasing the diversity of the LPD workforce, as well as Capt. Julie Williams' efforts in establishing a successful mentoring program. Capt. Alley feels that further use of a mentoring program will serve to increase the diversity of the command staff. While he does not believe any officer makes decisions based on a citizen's race, sex or appearance, he noted that incoming technology will allow LPD to gather statistical information which will be released to the public reference racial profiling concerns. Capt. Alley gave priority to his availability to the community, his listening to command staff input, and the desire for LPD to work with other City departments. He also plans to stress innovations in technology, use of grants funds and the updating of Department procedures. He stressed his work with the CARE program to ensure that LPD is proactive in domestic violence cases. He said that he is bothered by the inability of the Commission Investigator to question officers directly and by the Chief's use of disciplinary decision making power to override recommendations made by the Commission Investigator. He vowed to work with the Board and with appropriate unions to increase the integrity of the Commission Investigator's office. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 3 Capt. Alley also noted his desire to have a long career with LPD, noting the Department's reputation and quality. He thanked the Mayor and the many members of the community for their support. He expressed his ability to do the job and his desire to get started. Joe Graves, Chief of Staff, reviewed the Mayor's decision to recommend Capt Alley saying that the decision was particularly tough because three excellent internal candidates were in the running. Capt. Alley became the final candidate due to his combination of strengths in community policy, technology advancement, ability to engage the community, and his ability to bridge the gap between young and senior officers. He was also perceived to be the most dynamic of the candidates. Mr. Graves, on behalf of the Mayor, formally requested that the Board confirm Capt. Alley as new Chief of Police. The Board moved Capt. Alley's appointment to Chief of Police and passed the resolution unanimously. The Board meeting recessed from 6:51 p.m. to 7:12 p.m. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Tom Krug, Executive Director, expressed the union's pleasure in the appointment of an internal candidate. He commented that a positive message is being sent to officers that you can begin your law enforcement career at LPD and "go all the way." He looks forward to working with Chief Alley and encouraged him to keep an open mind on issues. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Canady added a verbal commendation to Sgt. Klaus and members of the Special Events Unit for their excellent work at providing funeral escorts. Commissioners requested that the secretary forward a copy of the June 12 correspondence to City Council President Michael Murphy to the Public Safety Committee. Correspondence was received and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for May 2000-Commissioner Quinney asked for an update on Department interactions with the Indigo Club and Chief George noted that problems still occur occasionally. Jack Jordan commented that the club's license, which was generally believed to have a May 1 expiration date, would actually expire on December 3 due to a typographical error. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - No report. Education Committee - Commissioners Frederick and Farhat-Reed distributed a survey to Board members requesting that it be completed and returned as soon as possible. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 4 Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee - No report. Human Resources Committee - This committee will be working with Chief Alley as issues are identified. Complaint Committee- Commissioner Quinney reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions answered. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, distributed draft copies of his annual report for 1999. Commissioner Sims expressed concern that the report is still in draft form even though the time period covered ended six months ago. Discussion followed that, as this is the first year, there were an extraordinary number of changes which are delaying publishing of the final version. HUMAN SERVICES AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed congratulated Chief Alley and acknowledged Chiefs George and Perry-Buse for their skills. She noted that Mayor Hollister would also be requesting some changes to the Commission Investigator's annual report. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner O'Malley- payed his condolences to Commissioner Mejorado on the loss of her mother and offered his congratulations to Chief Alley. He noted that the annual report of the Commission Investigator should serve to answer questions which the Council brought up during the budget process. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - congratulated Chief Alley and his family. She noted that next month's Common Ground festival in downtown Lansing conflicted with the Board's regularly scheduled July meeting. Without objection, Board members agreed to reschedule the meeting from July 18 to July 25. Commissioner Sims - commended the selection committee for their work in the process of reviewing candidates for the Chief of Police position and congratulated Chief Alley and his family. She also commended the work of the Department in the handling of domestic problems noting a first-hand observation with Officer Wilbert (Trey) Brewer. Commissioner Sims noted that Board members might wish to have shirts made with a Board insignia. A motion was made and passed. Members plan to contact a retail source and pay individually. Commissioner Frederick - congratulated Chief Alley and his family and noted that election of Board officers will be on next month's agenda. Commissioner Quinney-congratulated Chief Alley and his family and acknowledged Chiefs George and Perry-Buse as extremely qualified candidates. He also commended Commissioner Frederick and others on the selection committee. Commissioner Canady - expressed his relief at not being on the selection committee due to the difficulty presented by having multiple skilled internal candidates. He congratulated Cassie Alley and noted that she will need to be tolerant in dealing with her husband / Chief. Commissioner Mejorado - congratulated Chief Alley and his family, noting the challenges ahead for them. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 5 ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Acting Chief George Chief George noted decreasing crime figures for May in both the North and South Precincts. He commended Jim DeLine for his work in handling the difficulties in bring the fiscal year end to conclusion. He thanked the Board for their assistance during his tenure as Acting Chief and noted his history of having a good working relationship with Mark Alley. He commented that this relationship will continue as he stays on to serve Chief Alley as Assistant Chief of Police. He also encouraged Board members to attend the Common Ground festival announcing that they would each be receiving two complimentary tickets for admission to the festival on the day of their choice. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse congratulated Chief Alley and thanked Chief George for his leadership in the time he served as Acting Chief of Police. OTHER BUSINESS Departmental Training Procedure - Assistant Chief Perry-Buse explained the introduction of a new procedure noting that it does not replace the existing Field Training Officer procedure, but offers new information necessary to address liability concerns from our risk management insurer. Adoption of the procedure was moved, supported and passed. Administrative Procedure 99-A5 Proposed Revision - Commissioner O'Malley noted that Board by-laws contained in this procedure mandated that the Board elect officers at its July meeting. He commented that this method fails to utilize the knowledge and expertise of outgoing Board members. He moved the procedure be changed to allow elections at the June meeting. Discussion centered on effective date of such a procedure change and which manner of timing was most commonly accepted on various boards and commissions. Paul McComb informed the Board that the change would be effective upon its filing with the City Clerk. The motion passed by a vote of four to three. Action Related to Procedure Change - Commissioner O'Malley moved that the Board meet yet this month to elect officers for the year beginning July 1. Department administration assured Board members that the change could be filed with the City Clerk and an additional June meeting posted in compliance with the Open Meetings Act sufficient to enact this motion if passed. Discussion followed on the ability of those interested in being considered for officer positions to make their desires known. The motion passed by a vote of four to three. PUBLIC COMMENT Clyde Smith - Commented that Mark Alley was an excellent choice for the position of Chief of Police. He noted Chief Alley's ability to bring cultures together and that the changes occurring at LPD are changes for the better. Commissioner Farhat-Reed commended Mr. Smith and the Friends of Lansing Police for the excellent job they do in supporting the awards program and other endeavors. Darnell Oldham, Sr. - Congratulated Chief Alley and his family. He expressed concern that racial profiling is conducted by officers and told of a bad experience with the Michigan State Police. He noted that the accumulation of data on traffic stops is susceptible to false reporting by officers. He encouraged Chief Alley to advance the training of officers and requested all training be Coles approved and accredited. He encouraged the advancement of technology within the Department and encouraged Chief Alley to have an Open Door policy to both officers and the public even to the point of being on- site during controversial LPD actions. He noted that the Commission Investigator, Bernard Brantley, was a qualified individual and encouraged the new Chief to resolve difference of opinion issues on Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 6 individual complaint cases. He said the Department needs a good, solid complaint process by the end of 2000. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:25 p.m. DRAFT BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: i Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Acting Chief Andy George i - Commissioner Derrick Quinney Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse - Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jack Jordan, City Attorney's Office Commissioner Pete Canady Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Relations and Community Services MEMBERS EXCUSED: GUESTS: Commissioner Roger Newcomb Joe Graves, Chief of Staff Sharon Bommarito, Director of Personnel Services Willard Walker, Former Board Member Capt. Mark Alley MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: See Addendum A CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Julie Teed - Commended the Mayor and Selection Committee on the recommendation of Capt. Mark Alley to be the next Chief of Police. She noted that the three internal people vying for the position were all worthy candidates. Antonia Miernik, President of Genessee Neighborhood Association - Noted Capt. Alley's knowledge of neighborhood issues in her support of his name being put forth as Chief of Police. Tom Powers, North Lansing Neighborhood Association - Said he was very happy that an internal candidate was being recommended by the Mayor. He said Capt. Alley was a wise choice. Judy Hackett, North Precinct Advisory Board - Commented on the high caliber of the three internal candidates and supported the recommendation of Capt. Alley. Tom Westgate, South Lansing Business Association - Noted Capt. Alley's contributions to the community and voiced his support for Capt. Alley to be named Chief. Gary Hartman - Said he was pleased that an internal candidate was being recommended. He hoped that the new Chief would increase the number of officers assigned to Neighborhood Watch duties. Dale Glynn, Principal of Everett High School - Commented on Capt. Alley's work in gaining grant money and advancing technology in the Department. He noted Capt. Alley's farsightedness in his support of him for the position of Chief. Wilson Leek, CUTT Program -Was present to show his support for Capt. Alley for the position of Chief. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 2 Karrie Potter, Juvenile Grants Administrator - Expressed her appreciation that an internal candidate is being recommended and spoke highly of Capt. Alley's support for community policing. Darnell Oldham, Churchill Downs Community Association - Charged the incoming Chief to support the expansion of community policing. He spoke highly of Team 13's community policing work. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Commissioner O'Malley requested that a) a break be added to the agenda following the consideration of then Chief of Police recommendation, b) a revision to Administrative Procedure 99-A5 be considered under Other Business and c) action be considered on the proposed revision. Commissioner Frederick requested that the liaison from Human Relations and Community Services be given a permenent place on the Board's agenda for comments and a report. Without objection, all items were added to the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of May 23 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Mayor's Recommendation for Chief of Police- Commissioner Frederick reviewed the history of, and the procedures used, in the selection process including the Board's responsibility in the City Charter to approve the Mayor's recommended candidate by a majority vote of those serving on the Board. Board members questioned Capt. Alley in turn until no further questions came forth. Issues raised included community policing, commitment to neighborhood watch, diversity, racial profiling and more. Capt. Alley voiced his belief that all officers adopt a community policing philosophy including neighborhood watch responsibility. He commented that his success as Chief will be directly correlated to the support of front line patrol officers in performing their duties effectively. He expressed his support for training as a means of supplying young officers with the tools they need including the ability to work with a diverse community. He applauded Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse's contribution to increasing the diversity of the LPD workforce, as well as Capt. Julie Williams' efforts in establishing a successful mentoring program. Capt. Alley feels that further use of a mentoring program will serve to increase the diversity of the command staff. While he does not believe any officer makes decisions based on a citizen's race, sex or appearance, he noted that incoming technology will allow LPD to gather statistical information which will be released to the public reference racial profiling concerns. Capt. Alley gave priority to his availability to the community, his listening to command staff input, and the desire for LPD to work with other City departments. He also plans to stress innovations in technology, use of grants funds and the updating of Department procedures. He stressed his work with the CARE program to ensure that LPD is proactive in domestic violence cases. He said that he is bothered by the inability of the Commission Investigator to question officers directly and by the Chief's use of disciplinary decision making power to override recommendations made by the Commission Investigator. He vowed to work with the Board and with appropriate unions to increase the integrity of the Commission Investigator's office. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 3 Capt. Alley also noted his desire to have a long career with LPD, noting the Department's reputation and quality. He thanked the Mayor and the many members of the community for their support. He expressed his ability to do the job and his desire to get started. Joe Graves, Chief of Staff, reviewed the Mayor's decision to recommend Capt Alley saying that the decision was particularly tough because three excellent internal candidates were in the running. Capt. Alley became the final candidate due to his combination of strengths in community policy, technology advancement, ability to engage the community, and his ability to bridge the gap between young and senior officers. He was also perceived to be the most dynamic of the candidates. Mr. Graves, on behalf of the Mayor, formally requested that the Board confirm Capt. Alley as new Chief of Police. The Board moved Capt. Alley's appointment to Chief of Police and passed the resolution unanimously. The Board meeting recessed from 6:51 p.m. to 7:12 p.m. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Tom Krug, Executive Director, expressed the union's pleasure in the appointment of an internal candidate. He commented that a positive message is being sent to officers that you can begin your law enforcement career at LPD and "go all the way." He looks forward to working with Chief Alley and encouraged him to keep an open mind on issues. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Canady added a verbal commendation to Sgt. Klaus and members of the Special Events Unit for their excellent work at providing funeral escorts. Commissioners requested that the secretary forward a copy of the June 12 correspondence to City Council President Michael Murphy to the Public Safety Committee. Correspondence was received and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for May 2000-Commissioner Quinney asked for an update on Department interactions with the Indigo Club and Chief George noted that problems still occur occasionally. Jack Jordan commented that the club's license, which was generally believed to have a May 1 expiration date, would actually expire on December 3 due to a typographical error. Department reports were accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - No report. Education Committee - Commissioners Frederick and Farhat-Reed distributed a survey to Board members requesting that it be completed and returned as soon as possible. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 4 Awards. Citations & Incentives Committee - No report. Budget Sub-Committee - No report. Human Resources Committee - This committee will be working with Chief Alley as issues are identified. Complaint Committee- Commissioner Quinney reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions answered. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, distributed draft copies of his annual report for 1999. Commissioner Sims expressed concern that the report is still in draft form even though the time period covered ended six months ago. Discussion followed that, as this is the first year, there were an extraordinary number of changes which are delaying publishing of the final version. HUMAN SERVICES AND COMMUNITY RELATIONS LIAISON Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed congratulated Chief Alley and acknowledged Chiefs George and Perry-Buse for their skills. She noted that Mayor Hollister would also be requesting some changes to the Commission Investigator's annual report. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner O'Malley- payed his condolences to Commissioner Mejorado on the loss of her mother and offered his congratulations to Chief Alley. He noted that the annual report of the Commission Investigator should serve to answer questions which the Council brought up during the budget process. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - congratulated Chief Alley and his family. She noted that next month's Common Ground festival in downtown Lansing conflicted with the Board's regularly scheduled July meeting. Without objection, Board members agreed to reschedule the meeting from July 18 to July 25. Commissioner Sims - commended the selection committee for their work in the process of reviewing candidates for the Chief of Police position and congratulated Chief Alley and his family. She also commended the work of the Department in the handling of domestic problems noting a first-hand observation with Officer Wilbert (Trey) Brewer. Commissioner Sims noted that Board members might wish to have shirts made with a Board insignia. A motion was made and passed. Members plan to contact a retail source and pay individually. Commissioner Frederick - congratulated Chief Alley and his family and noted that election of Board officers will be on next month's agenda. Commissioner Quinney-congratulated Chief Alley and his family and acknowledged Chiefs George and Perry-Buse as extremely qualified candidates. He also commended Commissioner Frederick and others on the selection committee. Commissioner Canady - expressed his relief at not being on the selection committee due to the difficulty presented by having multiple skilled internal candidates. He congratulated Cassie Alley and noted that she will need to be tolerant in dealing with her husband / Chief. Commissioner Meiorado - congratulated Chief Alley and his family, noting the challenges ahead for them. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 5 ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Acting Chief George Chief George noted decreasing crime figures for May in both the North and South Precincts. He commended Jim DeLine for his work in handling the difficulties in bring the fiscal year end to conclusion. He thanked the Board for their assistance during his tenure as Acting Chief and noted his history of having a good working relationship with Mark Alley. He commented that this relationship will continue as he stays on to serve Chief Alley as Assistant Chief of Police. He also encouraged Board members to attend the Common Ground festival announcing that they would each be receiving two complimentary tickets for admission to the festival on the day of their choice. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse congratulated Chief Alley and thanked Chief George for his leadership in the time he served as Acting Chief of Police. OTHER BUSINESS Departmental Training Procedure - Assistant Chief Perry-Buse explained the introduction of a new procedure noting that it does not replace the existing Field Training Officer procedure, but offers new information necessary to address liability concerns from our risk management insurer. Adoption of the procedure was moved, supported and passed. Administrative Procedure 99-A5 Proposed Revision - Commissioner O'Malley noted that Board by-laws contained in this procedure mandated that the Board elect officers at its July meeting. He commented that this method fails to utilize the knowledge and expertise of outgoing Board members. He moved the procedure be changed to allow elections at the June meeting. Discussion centered on effective date of such a procedure change and which manner of timing was most commonly accepted on various boards and commissions. Paul McComb informed the Board that the change would be effective upon its filing with the City Clerk. The motion passed by a vote of four to three. Action Related to Procedure Change - Commissioner O'Malley moved that the Board meet yet this month to elect officers for the year beginning July 1. Department administration assured Board members that the change could be filed with the City Clerk and an additional June meeting posted in compliance with the Open Meetings Act sufficient to enact this motion if passed. Discussion followed on the ability of those interested in being considered for officer positions to make their desires known. The motion passed by a vote of four to three. PUBLIC COMMENT Clyde Smith - Commented that Mark Alley was an excellent choice for the position of Chief of Police. He noted Chief Alley's ability to bring cultures together and that the changes occurring at LPD are changes for the better. Commissioner Farhat-Reed commended Mr. Smith and the Friends of Lansing Police for the excellent job they do in supporting the awards program and other endeavors. Darnell Oldham, Sr. - Congratulated Chief Alley and his family. He expressed concern that racial profiling is conducted by officers and told of a bad experience with the Michigan State Police. He noted that the accumulation of data on traffic stops is susceptible to false reporting by officers. He encouraged Chief Alley to advance the training of officers and requested all training be Coles approved and accredited. He encouraged the advancement of technology within the Department and encouraged Chief Alley to have an Open Door policy to both officers and the public even to the point of being on- site during controversial LPD actions. He noted that the Commission Investigator, Bernard Brantley, was a qualified individual and encouraged the new Chief to resolve difference of opinion issues on Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2000 Page 6 individual complaint cases. He said the Department needs a good, solid complaint process by the end of 2000. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:25 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2000 - MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Acting Chief Andy George I Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Pete Canady Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Commissioner Kevin O'Malley GUESTS: Commissioner Roger Newcomb None. MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: Commissioner Derrick Quinney Sgt. Manuel Little (retired) CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Without objection, Chairperson Frederick announced that Public Comment would be allowed on any matter. Sgt. Manuel Little (retired) -commented that in recent contacts with citizens, he has heard of problems some officers have dealing with racial issues. He offered to lend assistance and provide individual Board members with additional information as requested. He suggested that the problem needs to be dealt with at a grass roots level - naming names, offering counseling, and providing needed training. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of April 25 and of the special meeting of April 26 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS FOP Grievance regarding Commission Investigator Position - Commissioner Frederick reminded Board members that this grievance was still pending. She said that it is expected to go to arbitration soon. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Newcomb asked why the April 11 correspondence from the Department of Justice had not been brought to the Board's attention sooner. Acting Chief George explained the desire to keep Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 2 the issue from being stirred up in public once again. Commissioner Newcomb asked if the Marijuana March was unique this year, and was told that it is an annual event. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked if the identity of the officer being complemented in the e-mail of May 11 was known. He is not. Correspondence received since the last meeting was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for April 2000 - Commissioner Mejorado asked why there was no report from Team 12 in the South Precinct and was informed that the Team Sergeant had been unavailable to compile information this month. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Frederick noted the increase, once again, in the number of calls answered. She also noted the dramatic decrease in the number of reports taken. Acting Chief George promised to address the reporting numbers in his administrative report. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reported that he was able to work with City Council members to answer questions on the Commission Investigator position. A discussion followed concerning the Council's tendency to call Board members to appear with little notice or regard for other demands on their time. Commissioner Frederick agreed to work with Commissioner Newcomb to communicate this concern to Council. Education Committee - Commissioners Frederick and Farhat-Reed have not yet met but again voiced their desire to survey Board members for possible presentation topics for this committee to explore. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed expressed her appreciation to those Board members who were able to attend the May 11 award ceremony. She commended the Friends of Lansing Police for their excellent work and noted the positive aspect of inviting all LPD employees to the ceremony. She noted that the function may have outgrown the St. Mary's facilities. The ceremony continues to improve with each passing year. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported the passage of the FY2001 LPD budget and was nominated for chair of this committee for life. Human Resources Committee - This committee's activities will resume with the naming of a new chair and new Chief. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions answered. He expressed concern that the process was in need of review as to situations where the Commission Investigator's recommended disposition is overruled by the Chief. A discussion followed on the merits of visiting the City of Detroit's Commission Investigator in order to review the process there. Commissioner Newcomb expressed frustration that here in Lansing the Board has the authority to investigate complaints yet is impeded by the inability to compel Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 3 officers to cooperate. A motion was passed mandating that the Commission Investigator's annual report be completed and published within the next week. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, reported meeting with the Complaint Committee. He pointed out that, in Detroit, the Commission Investigator's office handles all complaints, while Internal Affairs handles criminal cases only. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner O'Malley- suggested that a member of the FOP be extended an invitation to join Board members on any possible trip to visit Detroit's Commission Investigator. Commissioner Sims added that a member of City Council's Public Safety Committee might also be included. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - moved that Board minutes, once approved, be forwarded to those on the distribution list used by the secretary for meeting postings. Motion passed. She also noted the following events: annual pool party will be held in August this year, new Common Ground music festival to be held in July, and Lugnut Law Enforcement Appreciation night to be held this month. Commissioner Canady - commented that relations with the FOP will be enhanced by efforts to include them in matters. Commissioner Meiorado - noted how impressed she was with the award ceremony. Commissioner Sims - updated the Board on Ofc. Pace's rehabilitation from an off-duty motorcycle accident. She encouraged Board members to make efforts to introduce themselves to officers and attend line-up meetings often. She reminded Board members of her role as liaison to the Human Relations and Community Services Board and asked them to contact her with any related comments. Commissioner Newcomb - commended Commissioner O'Malley on his work as Buget Chair. He also reiterated his concerns with the complaint process noting that the Board was structuring its system without a model from which to work. He commented that having a more effective complaint process will improve the Board's relations with the City in general. Commissioner Frederick - expressed her appreciation that the Board has such an active membership. She noted that this helps it do good work and achieve its goals. She also updated the Board on the Chief of Police selection process, noting that of 34 original applications, 14 people met the stated qualifications and will continue on in the process by completing a series of written test questions. Interviews will follow, then the selection committee will submit the name of the final candidate(s) to the Mayor by mid-June. She spoke about the role of consultants in the search process and offered to make the dossier of the Mayor's recommended candidate available to Board members before their meeting with whomever it may be. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Acting Chief George Chief George brought the new North Precinct parking restrictions to the Board's attention. He also informed the Board of progress on recent police cases including the previous night's homicide at Pennsylvania Avenue and Shiawasee Street, commending the officers on their efficiency. Due to their quick response, witnesses had clearer recollections and could be of more assistance. The accused was apprehended by East Lansing police less than three hours following the incident. He noted the importance of solving crimes within 48 hours. Of the four homicides in Lansing this calendar year, each of the four related suspects has been arrested. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 4 He mentioned the new "Click it or ticket" campaign to encourage seat belt use and noted that LPD officers are not participating in the program for prizes, but to increase awareness of seat belt safety. The Acting Chief noted that both crime and calls for service are down, and that a program passed by Council to impound cars used by johns in prostitution areas is now being enforced. He mentioned LPD's participation in providing security on the day that both Vice President Gore and World Bank leaders visited the area. Overtime for this day will cost approximately $7,000. He announced the graduation from the police academy of six recruits to be hired as officers for LPD. Among them was the top graduate, Amy Wheeler. Chief George attended a reception last week hosted by the Mayor and Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Services Director, honoring City employees who retired in 1999 and those with twenty or more years of service. The reception was held at the Oldsmobile Heritage Center. Chief George said that the staffing of women and minorities at LPD is currently at 38%. He spoke of the Department's progress on technological initiatives including a new records management system (RMS) and the TIIAP grant which will see 50 PC stations positioned in the community for use by citizens to access the Internet, seek human services information and view neighborhood crime information. The grant will run for three years, at which time funding will need to be received from the services available on the system. Chief George discussed administrative efforts to advance other initiatives and compensate for any void left by the departure of Chief Johnson. He announced the move back to officers taking reports which had, until recently, been allocated to 911 Emergency Communications Technicians. He felt that with the decrease in calls for service and the increase in number of patrol officers, now is the time for this move which should prove to increase customer satisfaction and free up 911 operators to concentrate on emergency calls. The change will need to be monitored to gauge its success. He noted the continued move to put firm policies / procedures in place and the START training which was attended by Captains in an effort to 1) familiarize them with the unit's function, and 2) provide a different decision-making model. Skills training continues which includes legal updates, use of force discussions / scenarios, and training on various types of traffic stops. Supervisor training is being attended by all supervisors City-wide for sexual harassment issues, FMLA training and updates on labor relations issues. Chief George continues to meet with Geneva Smith of the NAACP. He is sending day shift officers into schools and is working with Genice Rhodes-Reed to continue offering teen traffic stop skits. He is looking forward to the Common Ground festival and expects it to run smoothly. He also announced that LPD will use grant funding to support a new part time grant reporting position to aid in the Finance Department. He noted that, contrary to previous plans, Capt. Alley will not be attending the FBI Academy. He commented on a Community Policing seminar to be held in Lansing by the Department of Justice and noted how beneficial it is for training to come to us. He encouraged Board members to call him with any questions or concerns they may have. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Canady commented on the possible potential for seat belt stops to be perceived as implemented due to racial profiling. He mentioned that officers should be prepared for this accusation. Commissioner Sims added that comments overheard at the Northwest Neighborhood Summit indicate Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 5 that some officers need to improve one-on-one race relations. She noted that her work with some LPD detectives lately have been very positive. She also mentioned that Board members perhaps could have ridden in the MSU NCAA parade. Commissioner Frederick asked to be contacted when opportunities occurred for Board members to meet with officers and the public. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m. DRAFT BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES "'^ r ,r TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2000 �� 59 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT; . Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Acting Chief Andy`-George_- ; i l C &I'il Commissioner Linda Sims Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Pete Canady Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Commissioner Kevin O'Malley GUESTS: Commissioner Roger Newcomb None. MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: Commissioner Derrick Quinney Sgt. Manuel Little (retired) CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Without objection, Chairperson Frederick announced that Public Comment would be allowed on any matter. Sgt. Manuel Little (retired) -commented that in recent contacts with citizens, he has heard of problems some officers have dealing with racial issues. He offered to lend assistance and provide individual Board members with additional information as requested. He suggested that the problem needs to be dealt with at a grass roots level - naming names, offering counseling, and providing needed training. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of April 25 and of the special meeting of April 26 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS FOP Grievance regarding Commission Investigator Position - Commissioner Frederick reminded Board members that this grievance was still pending. She said that it is expected to go to arbitration soon. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Newcomb asked why the April 11 correspondence from the Department of Justice had not been brought to the Board's attention sooner. Acting Chief George explained the desire to keep Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 2 the issue from being stirred up in public once again. Commissioner Newcomb asked if the Marijuana March was unique this year, and was told that it is an annual event. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked if the identity of the officer being complemented in the e-mail of May 11 was known. He is not. Correspondence received since the last meeting was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for April 2000 - Commissioner Mejorado asked why there was no report from Team 12 in the South Precinct and was informed that the Team Sergeant had been unavailable to compile information this month. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Frederick noted the increase, once again, in the number of calls answered. She also noted the dramatic decrease in the number of reports taken. Acting Chief George promised to address the reporting numbers in his administrative report. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reported that he was able to work with City Council members to answer questions on the Commission Investigator position. A discussion followed concerning the Council's tendency to call Board members to appear with little notice or regard for other demands on their time. Commissioner Frederick agreed to work with Commissioner Newcomb to communicate this concern to Council. Education Committee - Commissioners Frederick and Farhat-Reed have not yet met but again voiced their desire to survey Board members for possible presentation topics for this committee to explore. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed expressed her appreciation to those Board members who were able to attend the May 11 award ceremony. She commended the Friends of Lansing Police for their excellent work and noted the positive aspect of inviting all LPD employees to the ceremony. She noted that the function may have outgrown the St. Mary's facilities. The ceremony continues to improve with each passing year. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported the passage of the FY2001 LPD budget and was nominated for chair of this committee for life. Human Resources Committee -This committee's activities will resume with the naming of a new chair and new Chief. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions answered. He expressed concern that the process was in need of review as to situations where the Commission Investigator's recommended disposition is overruled by the Chief. A discussion followed on the merits of visiting the City of Detroit's Commission Investigator in order to review the process there. Commissioner Newcomb expressed frustration that here in Lansing the Board has the authority to investigate complaints yet is impeded by the inability to compel Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 3 officers to cooperate. A motion was passed mandating that the Commission Investigator's annual report be completed and published within the next week. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, reported meeting with the Complaint Committee. He pointed out that, in Detroit, the Commission Investigator's office handles all complaints, while Internal Affairs handles criminal cases only. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner O'Malley- suggested that a member of the FOP be extended an invitation to join Board members on any possible trip to visit Detroit's Commission Investigator. Commissioner Sims added that a member of City Council's Public Safety Committee might also be included. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - moved that Board minutes, once approved, be forwarded to those on the distribution list used by the secretary for meeting postings. Motion passed. She also noted the following events: annual pool party will be held in August this year, new Common Ground music festival to be held in July, and Lugnut Law Enforcement Appreciation night to be held this month. Commissioner Canady - commented that relations with the FOP will be enhanced by efforts to include them in matters. Commissioner Meiorado - noted how impressed she was with the award ceremony. Commissioner Sims - updated the Board on Ofc. Pace's rehabilitation from an off-duty motorcycle accident. She encouraged Board members to make efforts to introduce themselves to officers and attend line-up meetings often. She reminded Board members of her role as liaison to the Human Relations and Community Services Board and asked them to contact her with any related comments. Commissioner Newcomb - commended Commissioner O'Malley on his work as Buget Chair. He also reiterated his concerns with the complaint process noting that the Board was structuring its system without a model from which to work. He commented that having a more effective complaint process will improve the Board's relations with the City in general. Commissioner Frederick - expressed her appreciation that the Board has such an active membership. She noted that this helps it do good work and achieve its goals. She also updated the Board on the Chief of Police selection process, noting that of 34 original applications, 14 people met the stated qualifications and will continue on in the process by completing a series of written test questions. Interviews will follow, then the selection committee will submit the name of the final candidate(s) to the Mayor by mid-June. She spoke about the role of consultants in the search process and offered to make the dossier of the Mayor's recommended candidate available to Board members before their meeting with whomever it may be. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Acting Chief George Chief George brought the new North Precinct parking restrictions to the Board's attention. He also informed the Board of progress on recent police cases including the previous night's homicide at Pennsylvania Avenue and Shiawasee Street, commending the officers on their efficiency. Due to their quick response, witnesses had clearer recollections and could be of more assistance. The accused was apprehended by East Lansing police less than three hours following the incident. He noted the importance of solving crimes within 48 hours. Of the four homicides in Lansing this calendar year, each of the four related suspects has been arrested. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 4 He mentioned the new "Click it or ticket" campaign to encourage seat belt use and noted that LPD officers are not participating in the program for prizes, but to increase awareness of seat belt safety. The Acting Chief noted that both crime and calls for service are down, and that a program passed by Council to impound cars used by johns in prostitution areas is now being enforced. He mentioned LPD's participation in providing security on the day that both Vice President Gore and World Bank leaders visited the area. Overtime for this day will cost approximately $7,000. He announced the graduation from the police academy of six recruits to be hired as officers for LPD. Among them was the top graduate, Amy Wheeler. Chief George attended a reception last week hosted by the Mayor and Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Services Director, honoring City employees who retired in 1999 and those with twenty or more years of service. The reception was held at the Oldsmobile Heritage Center. Chief George said that the staffing of women and minorities at LPD is currently at 38%. He spoke of the Department's progress on technological initiatives including a new records management system (RMS) and the TIIAP grant which will see 50 PC stations positioned in the community for use by citizens to access the Internet, seek human services information and view neighborhood crime information. The grant will run for three years, at which time funding will need to be received from the services available on the system. Chief George discussed administrative efforts to advance other initiatives and compensate for any void left by the departure of Chief Johnson. He announced the move back to officers taking reports which had, until recently, been allocated to 911 Emergency Communications Technicians. He felt that with the decrease in calls for service and the increase in number of patrol officers, now is the time for this move which should prove to increase customer satisfaction and free up 911 operators to concentrate on emergency calls. The change will need to be monitored to gauge its success. He noted the continued move to put firm policies / procedures in place and the START training which was attended by Captains in an effort to 1) familiarize them with the unit's function, and 2) provide a different decision-making model. Skills training continues which includes legal updates, use of force discussions / scenarios, and training on various types of traffic stops. Supervisor training is being attended by all supervisors City-wide for sexual harassment issues, FMLA training and updates on labor relations issues. Chief George continues to meet with Geneva Smith of the NAACP. He is sending day shift officers into schools and is working with Genice Rhodes-Reed to continue offering teen traffic stop skits. He is looking forward to the Common Ground festival and expects it to run smoothly. He also announced that LPD will use grant funding to support a new part time grant reporting position to aid in the Finance Department. He noted that, contrary to previous plans, Capt. Alley will not be attending the FBI Academy. He commented on a Community Policing seminar to be held in Lansing by the Department of Justice and noted how beneficial it is for training to come to us. He encouraged Board members to call him with any questions or concerns they may have. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Canady commented on the possible potential for seat belt stops to be perceived as implemented due to racial profiling. He mentioned that officers should be prepared for this accusation. Commissioner Sims added that comments overheard at the Northwest Neighborhood Summit indicate Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2000 Page 5 that some officers need to improve one-on-one race relations. She noted that her work with some LPD detectives lately have been very positive. She also mentioned that Board members perhaps could have ridden in the MSU NCAA parade. Commissioner Frederick asked to be contacted when opportunities occurred for Board members to meet with officers and the public. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m. S I NG BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS -=U 120 W.Michigan Ave. # �'Lansing,MI 48933 ^� "�� j J Cii�� U. QQ �Yi it "�J U. ?U (517)483-4800 I x I �' I . . : �I�'.t� V.{'i' CLERK TO: Members, Board of Police Co issioners FROM: Jim DeLine, Board Secretary VVVI DATE: April 3, 2000 RE: Change of Meeting Dates Please take note of the changes below affecting our regular monthly meeting dates. If you have any questions, feel free to call me at 483-4808. Thank you. April Meeting Was: Tuesday, April 18, South Precinct, 6:00 p.m. (with a light meal) Now: Tuesday, April 25, Council Chambers, 6:30 p.m. (snacks only) May Meeting Was: Tuesday, May 16, North Precinct, 6:00 p.m. (with a light meal) Now: Tuesday, May 23, North Precinct, 6:00 p.m. (with a light meal) CC: Mayor's Office -,,,City Clerk North and South Precincts Human Relations & Community Services FOP "Equal Opportunity Employer" BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - SPECIAL MEETING ,--� TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Derrick Quinney Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Pete Canady GUESTS: Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Roger Newcomb Relations & Community Services Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Services Director MEMBERS EXCUSED: Charles Blockett, President, Charles Blockett and Commissioner Linda Sims Associates Commissioner Kevin O'Malley MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA: LPD EMPLOYEES Chris Andrews, Lansing State Journal Ofc. Paul Arnold Paul McComb, Legal Advisor MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: Lt. Derek Beiderwieden None. Sgt. Jim Kraus Lt. John Parks Sgt. Frank Medrano Ofc. George Kelley Ofc. Jason Evans Ofc. Walt Kim Ofc. Frank Mobley Ofc. Traci Ruiz Lt. Russ McKenzie CALL TO ORDER - Vice Chairperson Quinney Vice Chairperson Quinney called the meeting to order at 2:12 p.m. after having established a quorum. NOTE: As the sole purpose of this meeting was to hear input from LPD employees regarding qualities desired in a new Chief of Police, Board members arrived and departed as their schedules permitted. A quorum was not available at all times and no motions or actions were considered or passed. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Commissioner Quinney outlined the purpose of this special meeting and introduced Charles Blockett who spoke briefly on his role in the search process. Ofc. Paul Arnold - expressed the potential difficulty employees have in finding the time to attend sessions such as these. Paul McComb - discussed the issue of searching outside the Department vs. hiring internally. He noted that Robert Johnson was a quick study and learned the community quickly, but also recommended his successor be hired from within so that the new Chief will not have to "play catch-up." Lt. Derek Beiderwieden - mentioned that external candidates usually bring new programs, as did Chief Johnson. However, at this point, internal candidates likely recognize the importance of continuing the changes Chief Johnson began rather than "reinventing the wheel" once more. Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed and Director Sharon Bommarito discussed the low employee turnout with those present. Commissioner Farhat-Reed offered to visit line-up meetings to encourage employee input. Director Bommarito pointed out the importance of employee input reaching Mr. Blockett. She checked on the distribution of questionnaires to employees and confirmed that sufficient efforts were made to ensure their receipt. Ofc. Arnold inquired as to the presence of an LPD employee on the selection committee but was informed that the standard practice used for Department head searches made efforts to receive input from a wide range of employees rather than concentrate on a single representative. Lt. John Parks - noted that qualities mentioned on the questionnaire should be considered prerequisites for the new Chief. He felt that the internal candidates had those qualities and had clearly demonstrated their desire to serve the Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 26, 2000 Page 2 City of Lansing as evidence by their past actions. Sgt. Medrano - encouraged the new Chief to be chosen from the internal candidates. He felt that the new Chief needed to recognize the importance of training. Ofc. George Kelley - hoped that the search committee could find a candidate committed to stay for a worthwhile length of time. He expressed the need to find a candidate who would support the patrol officer, and set high standards for the FTO program. He felt their accomplishments could be measured by the employee's and the community's satisfaction. He hoped that these qualifications could be found in one of the internal candidates. Ofc. Jason Evans - expressed the need to find a Chief who is approachable. He hoped that the new Chief would review the Use of Force procedure as he felt the fear of bureaucratic review might cause officers to hesitate needlessly when force needs to be employed. He voiced the need to continue technological advancements made by the Department. Sgt. Medrano - echoed concern over the Use of Force procedure and added that it is important for the new Chief to rebuild special support units such as the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) unit. Sgt. Krause - noted flaws in the perception of number of times force is used and the unfairness to judge an officer by raw number of times they use force rather than as a percentage of calls. He noted that the cadre of internal candidates included an expert in Use of Force. He also noted the need to bolster the support units as that would increase the number of crimes solved. Ofc. Walt Kim - voiced concern that the new Chief be familiar with the Department, its history, its successes and failures. He noted the need to review Use of Force, maintain ten hour shifts, maintain high morale, compromise when necessary, and encourage high standards in both the hiring process and FTO program. Board members discussed the Use of Force issue noting the national abuses which led to a need for better accountability. Commissioner Farhat-Reed noted that she had heard officer concerns that in-car laptop computers were not being utilized due to poor lighting and placement. Ofc. Frank Mobley - wants to see a new Chief who is an independent voice ... not a member of the "good of boy network or beholding to someone politically. Ofc. Traci Ruiz - wants to see the Department's equipment needs addressed including vehicles and technology. She would like the new Chief to favor diversity and be willing to listen to front-line employees, be knowledgeable of the officers, their duties and the communities they serve. The new Chief would be judged successful if morale remains high. Lt. Russ McKenzie - was encouraged by the continued growth of technology. He expressed the value of an educated management within the Department, noting that education is capable of opening horizons to see new opportunities as much as hiring an outside candidate. He noted the esteemed reputation of LPD in the schools, courts and community at-large. He felt that a successful Chief would have a good sense of LPD's history and future. He pointed out that internal candidates would be likely to remain longer as they have shown a commitment to the City "for the long haul." ADJOURNMENT - Commissioner Farhat-Reed There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Farhat-Reed adjourned the meeting at 5:23 p.m. Draft BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - SPECIAL MEETING TUESDAY, APRIL 26, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Derrick Quinney Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Maria Mejorado Commissioner Pete Canady GUESTS: Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human Commissioner Roger Newcomb Relations & Community Services Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Services Director MEMBERS EXCUSED: Charles Blockett, President, Charles Blockett and Commissioner Linda Sims Associates Commissioner Kevin O'Malley MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA: LPD EMPLOYEES Chris Andrews, Lansing State Journal Ofc. Paul Arnold Paul McComb, Legal Advisor MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: Lt. Derek Beiderwieden None. Sgt. Jim Kraus Lt. John Parks Sgt. Frank Medrano Ofc. George Kelley Ofc. Jason Evans Ofc. Walt Kim Ofc. Frank Mobley Ofc. Traci Ruiz Lt. Russ McKenzie70 c� o CALL TO ORDER - Vice Chairperson Quinney t-• C-1 i it Vice Chairperson Quinney called the meeting to order at 2:12 p.m. after having established a`quorum. NOTE: As the sole purpose of this meeting was to hear input from LPD employees regarding qua►ities desired in a new Chief of Police, Board members arrived and departed as their schedules permitted. A quorum was not available at all times and no motions or actions were considered or passed. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Commissioner Quinney outlined the purpose of this special meeting and introduced Charles Blockett who spoke briefly on his role in the search process. Ofc. Paul Arnold - expressed the potential difficulty employees have in finding the time to attend sessions such as these. Paul McComb - discussed the issue of searching outside the Department vs. hiring internally. He noted that Robert Johnson was a quick study and learned the community quickly, but also recommended his successor be hired from within so that the new Chief will not have to "play catch-up." Lt. Derek Beiderwieden-mentioned that external candidates usually bring new programs, as did Chief Johnson. However, at this point, internal candidates likely recognize the importance of continuing the changes Chief Johnson began rather than "reinventing the wheel" once more. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 26, 2000 Page 2 Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed and Director Sharon Bommarito discussed the low employee turnout with those present. Commissioner Farhat-Reed offered to visit line-up meetings to encourage employee input. Director Bommarito pointed out the importance of employee input reaching Mr. Blockett. She checked on the distribution of questionnaires to employees and confirmed that sufficient efforts were made to ensure their receipt. Ofc. Arnold inquired as to the presence of an LPD employee on the selection committee but was informed that the standard practice used for Department head searches made efforts to receive input from a wide range of employees rather than concentrate on a single representative. Lt. John Parks - noted that qualities mentioned on the questionnaire should be considered prerequisites for the new Chief. He felt that the internal candidates had those qualities and had clearly demonstrated their desire to serve the City of Lansing as evidence by their past actions. Sgt. Medrano - encouraged the new Chief to be chosen from the internal candidates. He felt that the new Chief needed to recognize the importance of training. Ofc. George Kelley - hoped that the search committee could find a candidate committed to stay for a worthwhile length of time. He expressed the need to find a candidate who would support the patrol officer, and set high standards for the FTO program. He felt their accomplishments could be measured by the employee's and the community's satisfaction. He hoped that these qualifications could be found in one of the internal candidates. Ofc. Jason Evans - expressed the need to find a Chief who is approachable. He hoped that the new Chief would review the Use of Force procedure as he felt the fear of bureaucratic review might cause officers to hesitate needlessly when force needs to be employed. He voiced the need to continue technological advancements made by the Department. Sgt. Medrano - echoed concern over the Use of Force procedure and added that it is important for the new Chief to rebuild special support units such as the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) unit. Sgt. Krause - noted flaws in the perception of number of times force is used and the unfairness to judge an officer by raw number of times they use force rather than as a percentage of calls. He noted that the cadre of internal candidates included an expert in Use of Force. He also noted the need to bolster the support units as that would increase the number of crimes solved. Ofc. Walt Kim - voiced concern that the new Chief be familiar with the Department, its history, its successes and failures. He noted the need to review Use of Force, maintain ten hour shifts, maintain high morale, compromise when necessary, and encourage high standards in both the hiring process and FTO program. Board members discussed the Use of Force issue noting the national abuses which led to a need for better accountability. Commissioner Farhat-Reed noted that she had heard officer concerns that in-car laptop computers were not being utilized due to poor lighting and placement. Ofc. Frank Mobley - wants to see a new Chief who is an independent voice ... not a member of the "good of boy network or beholding to someone politically. Ofc. Traci Ruiz-wants to see the Department's equipment needs addressed including vehicles and technology. She would like the new Chief to favor diversity and be willing to listen to front-line employees, be knowledgeable of the officers, their duties and the communities they serve. The new Chief would be judged successful if morale remains high. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 26, 2000 Page 3 Lt. Russ McKenzie - was encouraged by the continued growth of technology. He expressed the value of an educated management within the Department, noting that education is capable of opening horizons to see new opportunities as much as hiring an outside candidate. He noted the esteemed reputation of LPD in the schools, courts and community at-large. He felt that a successful Chief would have a good sense of LPD's history and future. He pointed out that internal candidates would be likely to remain longer as they have shown a commitment to the City "for the long haul." ADJOURNMENT - Commissioner Farhat-Reed There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Farhat-Reed adjourned the meeting at 5:23 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES - TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: ` Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Acting Chief Andy George Commissioner Derrick Quinney Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse t Commissioner Maria Mejorado Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Pete Canady Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS: Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human MEMBERS EXCUSED: Relations & Community Services Commissioner Linda Sims Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Services Director Charles Blockett, President, Charles Blockett and Associates MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: See addendum CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:39 p.m, after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Chairperson Frederick welcomed members of the public and gave a brief explanation of the process being used to select the new Chief of Police. She introduced Charles Blockett, who will utilize public input in the formation of some of the questions which will be put to candidates during the selection process. Charles Fox - questioned the need to extend the search outside the Lansing Police Department. Julie Teed, North Precinct Advisory Board - encourage the selection committee to look within LPD. She has had positive experiences with some internal candidates in her efforts to better her community. Darnell Oldham, Sr. - commended Team 13 on the excellent job they were doing. He was concerned with racial profiling. Wants to see the positive changes currently being made in the Department continue under the new Chief. Carol Wood - moved out of the City, but returned and was encouraged by the community involvement of Department officers. She quoted Chief Johnson as saying that LPD contains personnel of the highest caliber. She believes that it is important that a new Chief of Police be familiar with Lansing neighborhoods. Gary Hartman, Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board - is discouraged by the decimation of the Neighborhood Watch officer numbers. He believes that the new Chief should place Neighborhood Watch as a high priority and said that the three finest candidates were the internal applicants. Gordon T. Wilson, NAACP - wants to see a Chief that is professional, believes in community policing, is a good communicator and supports training officers, particularly in regards to racial profiling. Harold Hayes - said that our last Chief "did not understand us" and wants the next Chief to know Lansing. He commented that communication is key and he is concerned about racial profiling. Wants to see the next Chief maintain good relationships with members of the community. Joan Bauer - believes it is important for the Chief to be a leader in the community, have the respect of staff members, and possess courage and strength. Should an inside candidate meet the necessary criteria, she believes they should be awarded the position. Melinda Fitzpatrick - wants the new Chief to be respectful of law-abiding citizens. She is concerned that LPD's enforcement of loitering areas and forfeiture laws related to prostitution cases is disrespectful to law-abiding citizens. She encourages a nationwide search. Sgt. Jim Kraus, FOP Supervisory Unit - encouraged the selection committee to consider internal candidates as it gives employees career encouragement, and because they know the Department and community very well. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 25, 2000 Page 2 Paul Zamarron - understands the call for an internal candidate to be selected but is concerned that a promotion from within would cause friction among employees and continue the fact that "nothing at LPD improves." Charles Ford - supports the precinct concept and wants to see a Chief who believes in the community policing philosophy, the continuing education of officers, and the encouragement of residency for officers. At this point, the meeting recessed to permit Board members a break and to reorganize the room arrangement. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of March 14 and of the special meeting of March 28 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Precinct Desk Staffing - Hours were submitted in the monthly packet. Commissioner Frederick looked forward to when staffing could be available twenty-four hours a day. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sgt. Jim Kraus, FOP Supervisory Unit, told the Board that he is looking forward to a time of stability on union matters now that contracts are in place. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Quinney offered commendations to Lt. Forrest on being selected Class President in the Eastern Michigan University School of Police and Command. He also commented favorably on the Department's ability to handle the MSU NCAA Championship parade. Correspondence received since the last meeting was accepted and placed on file. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed commended Ofc. Elizabeth Bonello on her work with Neighborhood Watch and noted her promotion to detective. Commissioner Quinney asked for an explanation on letter designations assigned to detective positions. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse provided the explanation that "A" was designation previously used for detectives whose assignments were restricted to investigations only, "B" designates detectives who are given varying assignments (and is the common designation used currently), and "C" designates employees in temporary detective positions. The LPD Human Resources Posting was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for March 2000 - Commissioner Canady asked for an explanation on the retirement designation of "duty disability." Chief George and Assistant Chief Perry-Buse explained that either the employee or Department can request retirement for this reason. Once granted, they receive 2/3 of their pay until they reach retirement age, at which time they receive retirement pay. It was noted that there have been incidents of employees being placed on duty disability, but later deemed fit for duty so returned to LPD employment. Commissioner Canady noted the large increase in percentage of CSC cases in the North Precinct and commented that the small number of cases causes the percentage to appear dramatic. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - Commissioner Frederick commended the Department on the progress made in the hiring of African- American females. Assistant Chief Perry-Buse noted that the people of color / women combined percentage now stands at 38.5%, the highest ever. The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 25, 2000 Page 3 Liaison Committee - Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed noted that this years Community & Police Relations Conference would be held at a location other than the Lansing Center due to the lack of intimacy. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed was presented with a certificate honoring her for her work on the Mayors Community / Police Advisory Committee. Education Committee - Commissioners Frederick and Farhat-Reed will soon be surveying Board members for possible presentation topics for this committee to explore. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed announced that all LPD employees have been invited to the May 11 Awards presentation. The sponsors are hoping the attendance will approach 300 people. She noted that there are many "wonderful" people being recognized this year. Commissioner Mejorado reported that 100 L-HOPE cash awards have been granted since the program's inception in 1996, forty-one of these to FOP members. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reminded the Board that LPD's budget hearing before City Council's Committee of the Whole is scheduled for Thursday. Commissioner Canady commended him for his work with the budget this year. A discussion was held concerning Council's interest in the Commission Investigator position. Dr. Rhodes-Reed received questions regarding his workload with information to be supplied at budget wrap-up, but the Committee of the Whole passed her Department's budget with position intact. Human Resources Committee - This committee's activities will resume with the naming of a new chair and new Chief. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Quinney reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and questions remain. A follow-up meeting will be held with Acting Chief George. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, reported meeting with Council, the Mayor, NAACP and the ACLU related to their concerns on the complaint process. He is working with the Acting Chief on communicating to complainants the results of his findings relative to the final disposition of their case. He mentioned profiling as the latest buzzword for concerns related to racial interactions. He is concerned that additional paperwork to record racial information would not be beneficial. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Newcomb - apologized for not being able to attend the Board's recent meetings. He expressed his concern that the Commission Investigators work is being not given proper significance by the Department and there is no where to go" when the Chief makes decisions contrary to Mr. Brantley's recommendations. Commissioner O'Malley - expressed his appreciation for Board members positive comments on his work with the budget and acknowledged the work of Jim DeLine, LPD Budget Control Supervisor. He pointed out to the Board that 70% of members of the public giving input on qualities they desire in a Chief of Police, recommended selecting from internal candidates. Commissioner Meiorado - expressed her wish that Board members had enjoyed a nice Easter. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - was glad to see the public bring questions related to Neighborhood Watch concerns. She commended the South Precinct for changes in community room decor and plans to allow line-up meetings to be held in the larger room. Commissioner Canady noted on the positive demeanor presented by members of the public in the search process hearing. Commissioner Quinney echoed Commissioner Newcomb's concerns on the Department's utilization of the Commission Investigators research and recommendations. He reiterated the need to resolve how to deal with differences of complaint findings between the Commission Investigator and the Department. Commissioner Frederick - spoke in favor of answering questions posed by members of the media in order to prevent them from providing conjecture instead. She spoke positively about the Chief selection process. She also requested whether the Board could have a presence on the Department's web page. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse agreed to help make that happen. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Acting Chief George Acting Chief Andy George noted that the upcoming budget hearing would include both fire and police discussions. He announced the discontinuance of the Deputy Chief title in favor of Assistant Chief. This will give the Department two Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 25, 2000 Page 4 Assistant Chiefs allowing the smooth transfer of assigned duties should that be deemed necessary. He pointed out that the increase in arrests noted in the monthly report were the result of officer initiated actions, a good indication that officers are working diligently. He announced that all open detective positions have now been filled. Chief George brought the Board up-to-date on recent high profile cases including the fatal accident investigation involving LFD. A request has been granted to have an MSP mechanic examine the maneuverability of the fire engine involved. He announced that Ofc. Cassie Alley would fill the newly created POI assignment in LPD Administration designed to advance the writing of procedures. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked if officer / front line input was received before procedures were written. She was assured that it was. He noted that officers in the South Precinct were attempting to address the number of unsolved LFA and MDOP reports by using their downtime to complete additional interviews and do extra research. It seems to be working. Chief George informed the Board that he met with the ACLU concerning perceived racial bias of officers (now called "profiling"). He felt the talks went well and that many of their concerns can be addressed to their satisfaction. Bernard Brantley commented that he had also met with the ACLU earlier in the day and felt it was a positive meeting. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed noted the problem of LFA's occurring when owner's fail to lock their vehicles. She also commented on a problem she became aware of where portable basketball hoops were being stolen. Case closed when the thieves were discovered driving down the street with several stolen portable basketball hoops strapped to the roof of their car. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse announced the start of "skills training" for 911 Emergency Communications Technicians focusing on courtesy, as well as Department values and goals. Commissioner Newcomb asked for the number of successful job offers made compared to the number of applications received for 911 positions. The Assistant Chief responded by saying that, out of 80 applications only three to five are likely to get job offers. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Frederick thanked Board members for signing up to attend the special meeting designed to hear LPD employee input on qualities to search for in a new Chief. PUBLIC COMMENT Kevin Carcaw mentioned that he had had problems with the Lansing Police Department related to an assault and battery. He said we should look for honesty in a new chief and commented on problems with the Community Mental Health system. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 9:15 p.m. Draft BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, APRIL 25, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Acting Chief Andy George Commissioner Derrick Quinney Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Maria Mejorado Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Pete Canady Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS: Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Human MEMBERS EXCUSED: Relations & Community Services Commissioner Linda Sims Sharon Bommarito, Personnel Services Director Charles Blockett, President, Charles Blockett and Associates MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: _ See addendum c� CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:39 p.m. after having established aq-,uor­vm. C_1 PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items Chairperson Frederick welcomed members of the public and gave a brief explanation of the process being used to select the new Chief of Police. She introduced Charles Blockett, who will utilize public input in the formation of some of the questions which will be put to candidates during the selection process. Charles Fox - questioned the need to extend the search outside the Lansing Police Department. Julie Teed, North Precinct Advisory Board - encourage the selection committee to look within LPD. She has had positive experiences with some internal candidates in her efforts to better her community. Darnell Oldham, Sr. - commended Team 13 on the excellent job they were doing. He was concerned with racial profiling. Wants to see the positive changes currently being made in the Department continue under the new Chief. Carol Wood - moved out of the City, but returned and was encouraged by the community involvement of Department officers. She quoted Chief Johnson as saying that LPD contains personnel of the highest caliber. She believes that it is important that a new Chief of Police be familiar with Lansing neighborhoods. Gary Hartman, Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board - is discouraged by the decimation of the Neighborhood Watch officer numbers. He believes that the new Chief should place Neighborhood Watch as a high priority and said that the three finest candidates were the internal applicants. Gordon T. Wilson, NAACP- wants to see a Chief that is professional, believes in community policing, is a good communicator and supports training officers, particularly in regards to racial profiling. Harold Hayes - said that our last Chief "did not understand us" and wants the next Chief to know Lansing. He commented that communication is key and he is concerned about racial profiling. Wants to see the next Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 25, 2000 Page 2 Chief maintain good relationships with members of the community. Joan Bauer - believes it is important for the Chief to be a leader in the community, have the respect of staff members, and possess courage and strength. Should an inside candidate meet the necessary criteria, she believes they should be awarded the position. Melinda Fitzpatrick- wants the new Chief to be respectful of law-abiding citizens. She is concerned that LPD's enforcement of loitering areas and forfeiture laws related to prostitution cases is disrespectful to law-abiding citizens. She encourages a nationwide search. Sgt. Jim Kraus, FOP Supervisory Unit - encouraged the selection committee to consider internal candidates as it gives employees career encouragement, and because they know the Department and community very well. Paul Zamarron - understands the call for an internal candidate to be selected but is concerned that a promotion from within would cause friction among employees and continue the fact that "nothing at LPD improves." Charles Ford - supports the precinct concept and wants to see a Chief who believes in the community policing philosophy, the continuing education of officers, and the encouragement of residency for officers. At this point, the meeting recessed to permit Board members a break and to reorganize the room arrangement. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of March 14 and of the special meeting of March 28 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Precinct Desk Staffing - Hours were submitted in the monthly packet. Commissioner Frederick looked forward to when staffing could be available twenty-four hours a day. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE Sgt. Jim Kraus, FOP Supervisory Unit, told the Board that he is looking forward to a time of stability on union matters now that contracts are in place. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Quinney offered commendations to Lt. Forrest on being selected Class President in the Eastern Michigan University School of Police and Command. He also commented favorably on the Department's ability to handle the MSU NCAA Championship parade. Correspondence received since the last meeting was accepted and placed on file. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed commended Ofc. Elizabeth Bonello on her work with Neighborhood Watch and noted her promotion to detective. Commissioner Quinney asked for an explanation on letter designations assigned to detective positions. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse provided the explanation that "A" was designation previously used for detectives whose assignments were restricted to investigations only, "B" designates detectives who are given varying assignments (and is the common designation used currently), and Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 25, 2000 Page 3 "C" designates employees in temporary detective positions. The LPD Human Resources Posting was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for March 2000- Commissioner Canady asked for an explanation on the retirement designation of "duty disability." Chief George and Assistant Chief Perry-Buse explained that either the employee or Department can request retirement for this reason. Once granted, they receive 2/3 of their pay until they reach retirement age, at which time they receive retirement pay. It was noted that there have been incidents of employees being placed on duty disability, but later deemed fit for duty so returned to LPD employment. Commissioner Canady noted the large increase in percentage of CSC cases in the North Precinct and commented that the small number of cases causes the percentage to appear dramatic. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - Commissioner Frederick commended the Department on the progress made in the hiring of African-American females. Assistant Chief Perry-Buse noted that the people of color / women combined percentage now stands at 38.5%, the highest ever. The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed noted that this year's Community & Police Relations Conference would be held at a location other than the Lansing Center due to the lack of intimacy. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed was presented with a certificate honoring her for her work on the Mayor's Community / Police Advisory Committee. Education Committee - Commissioners Frederick and Farhat-Reed will soon be surveying Board members for possible presentation topics for this committee to explore. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee-Commissioner Farhat-Reed announced that all LPD employees have been invited to the May 11 Awards presentation. The sponsors are hoping the attendance will approach 300 people. She noted that there are many "wonderful" people being recognized this year. Commissioner Mejorado reported that 100 L-HOPE cash awards have been granted since the program's inception in 1996, forty-one of these to FOP members. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reminded the Board that LPD's budget hearing before City Council's Committee of the Whole is scheduled for Thursday. Commissioner Canady commended him for his work with the budget this year. A discussion was held concerning Council's interest in the Commission Investigator position. Dr. Rhodes-Reed received questions regarding his workload with information to be supplied at budget wrap-up, but the Committee of the Whole passed her Department's budget with position intact. Human Resources Committee -This committee's activities will resume with the naming of a new chair and new Chief. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Quinney reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and questions remain. A follow-up meeting will be held with Acting Chief George. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, reported meeting with Council, the Mayor, NAACP and the ACLU Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 25, 2000 Page 4 related to their concerns on the complaint process. He is working with the Acting Chief on communicating to complainants the results of his findings relative to the final disposition of their case. He mentioned profiling as the latest buzzword for concerns related to racial interactions. He is concerned that additional paperwork to record racial information would not be beneficial. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Newcomb - apologized for not being able to attend the Board's recent meetings. He expressed his concern that the Commission Investigator's work is being not given proper significance by the Department and there is "no where to go" when the Chief makes decisions contrary to Mr. Brantley's recommendations. Commissioner O'Malley - expressed his appreciation for Board members positive comments on his work with the budget and acknowledged the work of Jim DeLine, LPD Budget Control Supervisor. He pointed out to the Board that 70% of members of the public giving input on qualities they desire in a Chief of Police, recommended selecting from internal candidates. Commissioner Meiorado - expressed her wish that Board members had enjoyed a nice Easter. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - was glad to see the public bring questions related to Neighborhood Watch concerns. She commended the South Precinct for changes in community room decor and plans to allow line-up meetings to be held in the larger room. Commissioner Canady - noted on the positive demeanor presented by members of the public in the search process hearing. Commissioner Quinney - echoed Commissioner Newcomb's concerns on the Department's utilization of the Commission Investigator's research and recommendations. He reiterated the need to resolve how to deal with differences of complaint findings between the Commission Investigator and the Department. Commissioner Frederick - spoke in favor of answering questions posed by members of the media in order to prevent them from providing conjecture instead. She spoke positively about the Chief selection process. She also requested whether the Board could have a presence on the Department's web page. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse agreed to help make that happen. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Acting Chief George Acting Chief Andy George noted that the upcoming budget hearing would include both fire and police discussions. He announced the discontinuance of the Deputy Chief title in favor of Assistant Chief. This will give the Department two Assistant Chiefs allowing the smooth transfer of assigned duties should that be deemed necessary. He pointed out that the increase in arrests noted in the monthly report were the result of officer initiated actions, a good indication that officers are working diligently. He announced that all open detective positions have now been filled. Chief George brought the Board up-to-date on recent high profile cases including the fatal accident investigation involving LFD. A request has been granted to have an MSP mechanic examine the maneuverability of the fire engine involved. He announced that Ofc. Cassie Alley would fill the newly created POI assignment in LPD Administration designed to advance the writing of procedures. Commissioner Farhat-Reed asked if officer / front line input was received before procedures were written. She was assured that it was. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of April 25, 2000 Page 5 He noted that officers in the South Precinct were attempting to address the number of unsolved LFA and MDOP reports by using their downtime to complete additional interviews and do extra research. It seems to be working. Chief George informed the Board that he met with the ACLU concerning perceived racial bias of officers (now called "profiling"). He felt the talks went well and that many of their concerns can be addressed to their satisfaction. Bernard Brantley commented that he had also met with the ACLU earlier in the day and felt it was a positive meeting. Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed noted the problem of LFA's occurring when owner's fail to lock their vehicles. She also commented on a problem she became aware of where portable basketball hoops were being stolen. Case closed when the thieves were discovered driving down the street with several stolen portable basketball hoops strapped to the roof of their car. Assistant Chief Helen Perry-Buse announced the start of "skills training" for 911 Emergency Communications Technicians focusing on courtesy, as well as Department values and goals. Commissioner Newcomb asked for the number of successful job offers made compared to the number of applications received for 911 positions. The Assistant Chief responded by saying that, out of 80 applications only three to five are likely to get job offers. OTHER BUSINESS Commissioner Frederick thanked Board members for signing up to attend the special meeting designed to hear LPD employee input on qualities to search for in a new Chief. PUBLIC COMMENT Kevin Carcaw mentioned that he had had problems with the Lansing Police Department related to an assault and battery. He said we should look for honesty in a new chief and commented on problems with the Community Mental Health system. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 9:15 p.m. SPECIAL BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES ;rr�;r-[��r TUESDAY, MARCH 28T", 2000 IR F7 5:00 P.M. . 12 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: w r' CLERK Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chairperson Michelle Reddish, Acting Secretary Commissioner Derrick Quinney, Vice-Chair Chief Robert L. Johnson Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Genice Rhodes-Reed Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bob Egan Commissioner Pete Canady Commissioner Linda Sims CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 5:55 p.m. after having established a quorum. [Note: Chairperson O'Malley and Chairperson Newcomb were absent]. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. MEETING Chairperson Frederick thanked the Chief for the service he provided to the Community, as well as other Board Members. The Board posed six questions to the Chief regarding various issues in his two-year tenure with the Lansing Police Department, i.e. challenges while Chief, strengths and challenges of the Police Department, pending items, immediate changes and selection process of a new Chief. The Chief responded to the Board's questions. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES _ TUESDAY, MARCH 14, 2000 `) MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Derrick Quinney Assistant Chief Andy George Commissioner Maria Mejorado Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Pete Canady Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Linda Sims GUESTS: MEMBERS EXCUSED: Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Community Commissioner Roger Newcomb Services and Human Relations MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:1 5 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Chairman Frederick requested that a discussion of the Chief of Police selection process be placed on the agenda under Other Business. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meetings of January 18 and February 15, 2000 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Precinct Desk Staffing - Commissioner Frederick requested if a copy of the hours which these stations are staffed was available as she requested at the last meeting. As it was not, the item was tabled until next month. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Correspondence received since the last meeting was accepted and placed on file. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of March 14, 2000 Page 2 DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for February 2000 - Commissioner Canady asked for the status of filling vacant cadet positions and Deputy Chief Perry-Buse reported that there are currently applicant processes underway which should fill all cadet, officer and 911 technician vacancies. Commissioner Frederick noted the phrase "prostitution letter" and asked for the meaning. Assistant Chief George explained that letters are written establishing an area as a prostitution loitering area. This then allows officers the authority to make arrests after they advise anyone "hanging out" in the area that it is a prostitution loitering area. The arrest would be for "trespassing in a prostitution loitering area." Commissioner Canady congratulated the Tri-County Metro Unit on the amount of drugs and money confiscated. He asked for clarification on the split among the TCM participants. Assistant Chief George explained that the participating counties are allowed to recoup their investments in operating expenses. Any excess is then divided proportionately among agencies providing staff to TCM. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Frederick noted the increase in both the number of calls and dispatched units and commended the Center staff for their hard work. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Sims reported on the most recent meeting of the Human Relations and Community Services board, noting that Chairman Jones has resigned due to other time consuming obligations. A recommendation concerning the dissolution of the Police / Community Relations Committee (PCR) was not passed, but discussion will continue. Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed added that this recommendation is expected to be passed at the next meeting. It was also noted that all residents of Oliver Towers have been successfully relocated. Commissioner Sims also acknowledged Rev. Roger Pohl's contributions to the PCR committee as he will be relocating outside the Lansing area. Education Committee - No report, however Commissioner Frederick reminded Board members of the "mini- citizen's police academy" scheduled for this coming Saturday. Awards Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that she met with committee members to review candidates for annual citations and was very impressed with the number of citizens and officers who are worthy of recognition. She reminded Board members to attend the ceremony on May 11 at St. Mary's Cathedral. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported that the LPD budget which Mayor Hollister is recommending to Council is reduced from the Department's request by over $600,000 with (as expected) a large cut in the amount requested for equipment. He offered to provide Board members with a list of all changes made. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Canady asked that Board members forward any comments relating to the drug testing issue to him for review by his committee. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Quinney reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions were answered to the committee's satisfaction. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, had no additional comments to his monthly summary previously distributed to Board members. Commissioners Canady and Frederick discussed the need to begin a review of the complaint process. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of March 14, 2000 Page 3 COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Quinney - commended outgoing Chief Johnson on his accessibility and positive changes made at LPD during his tenure including increased diversity of police personnel. Commissioner Sims - expressed her appreciation to Chief Johnson and spoke of a recent ride-along with Lt. Forrest. She particularly was impressed with officers' handling of an altercation which was based, primarily, on a cultural issue between two relatives. Commissioner O'Malley - echoed the prior positive comments to Chief Johnson noting the class with which he performed his duties. He also commended the Complaint Committee for their untiring diligence. Commissioner Canady-thanked the Chief for validating the search committee's selection of him by performing his job so well during his time as Chief. He also acknowledged the administrative efforts of the Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - "ditto." Commissioner Meiorado - commended the Chief and expressed her appreciation to fellow Board members for their support during her medical absence. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Johnson Chief Johnson discussed the Use of Force summary distributed to Board members commenting that this twelve- month summary disclosed some useful data -- not all of it positive. He noted that half of all use-of-force incidents were initiated by officers with one to four years of experience. This statistic will need to be addressed with training changes. The initiation of a use-of-force reporting requirement has caused officers to reflect on its necessity before force is used. The Chief encouraged the continuation of the Department's current endeavors to review critical areas and prepare appropriate procedures in order that employees are provided with proper guidance as needed. He noted that his resignation is a departure from his original plan to stay in Lansing at least through Mayor Hollister's present term as Mayor. He noted that LPD is one of "the finest police departments in the country," and that he was fairly confident that he was leaving the Department "as good or better" than he found it. He encouraged LPD's policy makers to support Mayor Hollister's vision for the City, saying that the LPD staff is up to any challenge and the leadership is very capable. He thanked Board members for the time and dedication he has seen them exhibit over the past two years. OTHER BUSINESS Police Chief Selection Process - Commissioner Frederick reported that conversations with Sharon Bommarito, Director of Human Resources, have begun. The position is posted nationally and internally. She will meet with the Mayor's staff relative to the process and recommended a review be conducted of the process used previously. Input will be sought from the public, LPD staff and from the outgoing Chief. Board members decided to use their April meeting as a forum for public comments. It was recommended that public comments be scheduled for both the South and North precincts. It was suggested that the Lansing State Journal be approached reference publishing a citizen input form as in the last selection process. Applications are due May 1 with a hiring target date of June or July. May Meeting Date - Due to a conflict with the Lansing Lugnuts Law Enforcement Appreciation Night, the May meeting date will be changed to May 23. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of March 14, 2000 Page 4 LPD Annual Report - Copies of the report were distributed. Board members praised the readability and informative characteristics of the report and discussed its distribution. Chief Johnson noted that full color copies are available to Council and to Board members, community leaders receive black and white versions, and copies for public distribution might have to be photocopies to keep costs down. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:28 p.m. Draft BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, MARCH 14, 2000 '-,­ MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: L F• ,...; CITY l_ � r Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Robert Johnson "'° ' v ! I CLcf;� Commissioner Derrick Quinney Assistant Chief Andy George Commissioner Maria Mejorado Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Pete Canady Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Linda Sims GUESTS: MEMBERS EXCUSED: Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Director of Community Commissioner Roger Newcomb Services and Human Relations MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:1 5 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Chairman Frederick requested that a discussion of the Chief of Police selection process be placed on the agenda under Other Business. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meetings of January 18 and February 15, 2000 were approved as submitted and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Precinct Desk Staffing - Commissioner Frederick requested if a copy of the hours which these stations are staffed was available as she requested at the last meeting. As it was not, the item was tabled until next month. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Correspondence received since the last meeting was accepted and placed on file. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of March 14, 2000 Page 2 DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for February 2000- Commissioner Canady asked for the status of filling vacant cadet positions and Deputy Chief Perry-Buse reported that there are currently applicant processes underway which should fill all cadet, officer and 911 technician vacancies. Commissioner Frederick noted the phrase "prostitution letter" and asked for the meaning. Assistant Chief George explained that letters are written establishing an area as a prostitution loitering area. This then allows officers the authority to make arrests after they advise anyone "hanging out" in the area that it is a prostitution loitering area. The arrest would be for "trespassing in a prostitution loitering area." Commissioner Canady congratulated the Tri-County Metro Unit on the amount of drugs and money confiscated. He asked for clarification on the split among the TCM participants. Assistant Chief George explained that the participating counties are allowed to recoup their investments in operating expenses. Any excess is then divided proportionately among agencies providing staff to TCM. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Frederick noted the increase in both the number of calls and dispatched units and commended the Center staff for their hard work. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Sims reported on the most recent meeting of the Human Relations and Community Services board, noting that Chairman Jones has resigned due to other time consuming obligations. A recommendation concerning the dissolution of the Police / Community Relations Committee (PCR) was not passed, but discussion will continue. Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed added that this recommendation is expected to be passed at the next meeting. It was also noted that all residents of Oliver Towers have been successfully relocated. Commissioner Sims also acknowledged Rev. Roger Pohl's contributions to the PCR committee as he will be relocating outside the Lansing area. Education Committee - No report, however Commissioner Frederick reminded Board members of the "mini- citizen's police academy" scheduled for this coming Saturday. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that she met with committee members to review candidates for annual citations and was very impressed with the number of citizens and officers who are worthy of recognition. She reminded Board members to attend the ceremony on May 11 at St. Mary's Cathedral. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported that the LPD budget which Mayor Hollister is recommending to Council is reduced from the Department's request by over $600,000 with (as expected) a large cut in the amount requested for equipment. He offered to provide Board members with a list of all changes made. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Canady asked that Board members forward any comments relating to the drug testing issue to him for review by his committee. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Quinney reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and all questions were answered to the committee's satisfaction. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, had no additional comments to his monthly summary previously distributed to Board members. Commissioners Canady and Frederick discussed the need to begin a review of the complaint process. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of March 14, 2000 Page 3 COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Quinney - commended outgoing Chief Johnson on his accessibility and positive changes made at LPD during his tenure including increased diversity of police personnel. Commissioner Sims - expressed her appreciation to Chief Johnson and spoke of a recent ride-along with Lt. Forrest. She particularly was impressed with officers' handling of an altercation which was based, primarily, on a cultural issue between two relatives. Commissioner O'Malley - echoed the prior positive comments to Chief Johnson noting the class with which he performed his duties. He also commended the Complaint Committee for their untiring diligence. Commissioner Canady-thanked the Chief for validating the search committee's selection of him by performing his job so well during his time as Chief. He also acknowledged the administrative efforts of the Assistant Chief and Deputy Chief. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - "ditto." Commissioner Meiorado - commended the Chief and expressed her appreciation to fellow Board members for their support during her medical absence. ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Johnson Chief Johnson discussed the Use of Force summary distributed to Board members commenting that this twelve- month summary disclosed some useful data -- not all of it positive. He noted that half of all use-of-force incidents were initiated by officers with one to four years of experience. This statistic will need to be addressed with training changes. The initiation of a use-of-force reporting requirement has caused officers to reflect on its necessity before force is used. The Chief encouraged the continuation of the Department's current endeavors to review critical areas and prepare appropriate procedures in order that employees are provided with proper guidance as needed. He noted that his resignation is a departure from his original plan to stay in Lansing at least through Mayor Hollister's present term as Mayor. He noted that LPD is one of "the finest police departments in the country," and that he was fairly confident that he was leaving the Department "as good or better" than he found it. He encouraged LPD's policy makers to support Mayor Hollister's vision for the City, saying that the LPD staff is up to any challenge and the leadership is very capable. He thanked Board members for the time and dedication he has seen them exhibit over the past two years. OTHER BUSINESS Police Chief Selection Process - Commissioner Frederick reported that conversations with Sharon Bommarito, Director of Human Resources, have begun. The position is posted nationally and internally. She will meet with the Mayor's staff relative to the process and recommended a review be conducted of the process used previously. Input will be sought from the public, LPD staff and from the outgoing Chief. Board members decided to use their April meeting as a forum for public comments. It was recommended that public comments be scheduled for both the South and North precincts. It was suggested that the Lansing State Journal be approached reference publishing a citizen input form as in the last selection process. Applications are due May 1 with a hiring target date of June or July. May Meeting Date - Due to a conflict with the Lansing Lugnuts Law Enforcement Appreciation Night, the May meeting date will be changed to May 23. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of March 14, 2000 Page 4 LPD Annual Report - Copies of the report were distributed. Board members praised the readability and informative characteristics of the report and discussed its distribution. Chief Johnson noted that full color copies are available to Council and to Board members, community leaders receive black and white versions, and copies for public distribution might have to be photocopies to keep costs down. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:28 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES E D TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2000 0' 45 O• MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Derrick Quinney, Vice Chair Assistant Chief Andy George Commissioner Pete Canady Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Linda Sims GUESTS: Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Human Relations and MEMBERS EXCUSED: Community Services Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bob Egan, Community Services and Human Relations Board Jan Witwer, Police / Community Relations MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of January 18 was tabled as they were inadvertently left out of the board packets. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Acknowledgment of Board Service by Willard Walker - Commissioners Frederick reported that she has confirmed a date at the February 28 City Council meeting for a presentation to former Board member Walker. She encouraged other Board members to attend. Future of Police / Community Relations Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that she, Bob Egan, and Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse will be meeting with the Mayor to make a proposal on the future of this Committee. She will keep the Board up-to-date on the nature of the proposal and the Mayor's response to it. FOP Lawsuit - Commissioner Frederick reported that the suit is now closed as a settlement was finalized whereby the City would compensate the FOP for legal expenses which they had incurred. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2000 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Quinney asked for information regarding the letter from Motorola commending the Department for a recent award. Chief Johnson noted that the Department had been acknowledged for its mentor program headed by Capt. Julie Williams. This was a very prestigious honor as the competition was international in nature. Correspondence was received and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for January 2000 - Commissioner Farhat-Reed noted the hiring of Delphine Rogers as an academy recruit. Several Board members have worked with Delphine during her tenure in the Mayor's office and they wished her the best of luck at LPD. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Frederick noted a significant increase in the number of calls answered. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reporting on his work with the City Council's Public Safety Committee. He hopes that a joint dinner meeting might be set up before summer. Commissioner Sims reported on the most recent meeting of the Human Relations and Community Services Board. While there had not been a quorum, discussion was held relative to the Department's future, as well as the Board's organizational structure and by-laws. Commissioner Frederick encouraged all Board members to attend meetings of boards and committees with which the Board of Police Commissioners interacts. Education Committee- No report. Commissioner Frederick asked the Chief to educate the Board on the staffing of the public desks at police buildings. The Chief promised a detailed list, but stated that, generally, hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additional hours are offered when staffing allows. He is hopeful that the LPD volunteer program will allow a further extension of hours. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Canady met with Chief Johnson, Deputy Chief Perry-Buse, Capt. Williams and Lt. McKenzie. They discussed a recent court decision disallowing municipalities to require employee residency and the pros and cons or employee drug testing. He invited Board members to submit other issues for review. He commended the Department on the progress made in minority and female hiring. Commissioner Newcomb suggested that assistance be extended to officers in coping with drug and alcohol problems. Chief Johnson noted that the City's Employee Assistance Program was the appropriate mechanism for this. He did not feel that a further outreach effort was needed, but noted that services are discussed when relevant in disciplinary actions or employees come forward voluntarily. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed commented that the list of recipients for this year's recognition dinner were "astounding." She encouraged Board members to start making note of candidates for the 2001 recognition. This year's ceremony is scheduled to take place the week of May 15. She commended Chief Johnson for his efforts to add dignity and stature to the occasion. Budget Sub-Committee-Commissioner O'Malley reported that the Department has submitted a revised FY2001 Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2000 budget proposal meeting the Mayor's target. Accompanying the proposal is a memo from the Chief noting the impact of the reductions. A meeting with the May is scheduled for February 22. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and that all questions were answered to the committee's satisfaction. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, distributed a draft summary of 1999 cases which he investigated. He noted that 25 of the 30 cases were closed. The Chief and various Board members offered suggestions for change. Commissioner Frederick encouraged other comments be directed to Mr. Brantley. She noted that Mr. Brantley's one year evaluation was overdue. She is working with Dr. Rhodes-Reed on the evaluation and invited Board members to submit comments. She announced that she was in receipt of the Internal Affairs 1999 summary and offered to provide copies to all Board members. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Sims - none. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - commended Dr. Rhodes-Reed on the handling of concerns related to the fire at Oliver Towers. Commissioner O'Malley - reminded Board members of the upcoming budget meeting with the Mayor. Commissioner Newcomb - none Commissioner Quinney - none Commissioner Frederick - none ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Johnson Chief Johnson reminded the Board that there March meeting is to be held in Council chambers and will be televised on the City's cable channel. He also reported that the annual report is being completed. The Chief noted the introduction of two proposed City Ordinances. First, exempting the use of remote car starters from citations for leaving an unattended vehicle running. Second, permitting the forfeiture of vehicles used in solicitation and drug traffic crimes. He commented on recent high profile cases including the beating and stabbing of a man on Dorchester Circle. He announced the impending arrest of two people. He also announced that a suspect had been confirmed in the Dreamgirls case and an arrest could be made within hours. In the case of a young girl being assaulted, it was discovered that the offenders were boys too young to prosecute. Regarding Ofc. Funk's vehicle accident, the LPD Traffic Review Board has submitted a report for the Chief to review. Deputy Chief Perry-Buse reported on a proposed four to six hour "mini- Citizens Police Academy" targeted for March 17. She invited Board members to participate. OTHER BUSINESS After some discussion centered on differences between" rules of conduct" and "procedures," the Board approved the new Rules of Conduct Procedure. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2000 PUBLIC COMMENT Jan Witwer, member of the Police / Community Relations Board informed the Board of her interest in maintaining involvement in this area even if the Board is disbanded. Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed speculated on the future of Oliver Towers building / site. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:27 p.m. DRAFT BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES February 15, 2000 o� �b7 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT.; Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Derrick Quinney, Vice Chair Assistant Chief Andy George Commissioner Pete Canady Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Linda Sims GUESTS: Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed, Human Relations and MEMBERS EXCUSED: Community Services Commissioner Maria Mejorado Bob Egan, Community Services and Human Relations Board Jan Witwer, Police / Community Relations W� �� `� c�j�✓0 u .0,Q MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: � None rl brA�/ TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. after having established a quorum. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items None. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA None. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting of January 18 was tabled as they were inadvertently left out of the board packets. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Acknowledgment of Board Service by Willard Walker - Commissioners Frederick reported that she has confirmed a date at the February 28 City Council meeting for a presentation to former Board member Walker. She encouraged other Board members to attend. Future of Police / Community Relations Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that she, Bob Egan, and Deputy Chief Helen Perry-Buse will be meeting with the Mayor to make a proposal on the future of this Committee. She will keep the Board up-to-date on the nature of the proposal and the Mayor's response to it. FOP Lawsuit - Commissioner Frederick reported that the suit is now closed as a settlement was finalized whereby the City would compensate the FOP for legal expenses which they had incurred. Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2000 FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Quinney asked for information regarding the letter from Motorola commending the Department for a recent award. Chief Johnson noted that the Department had been acknowledged for its mentor program headed by Capt. Julie Williams. This was a very prestigious honor as the competition was international in nature. Correspondence was received and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for January 2000 - Commissioner Farhat-Reed noted the hiring of Delphine Rogers as an academy recruit. Several Board members have worked with Delphine during her tenure in the Mayor's office and they wished her the best of luck at LPD. The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - Commissioner Frederick noted a significant increase in the number of calls answered. The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report - The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reporting on his work with the City Council's Public Safety Committee. He hopes that a joint dinner meeting might be set up before summer. Commissioner Sims reported on the most recent meeting of the Human Relations and Community Services Board. While there had not been a quorum, discussion was held relative to the Department's future, as well as the Board's organizational structure and by-laws. Commissioner Frederick encouraged all Board members to attend meetings of boards and committees with which the Board of Police Commissioners interacts. Education Committee - No report. Commissioner Frederick asked the Chief to educate the Board on the staffing of the public desks at police buildings. The Chief promised a detailed list, but stated that, generally, hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additional hours are offered when staffing allows. He is hopeful that the LPD volunteer program will allow a further extension of hours. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Canady met with Chief Johnson, Assistant Chief George, Deputy Chief Perry-Buse, Capt. Williams and Lt. McKenzie. They discussed a recent court decision disallowing municipalities to require employee residency and the pros and cons or employee drug testing. He invited Board members to submit other issues for review. He commended the Department on the progress made in minority and female hiring. Commissioner Newcomb suggested that assistance be extended to officers in coping with drug and alcohol problems. Chief Johnson noted that the City's Employee Assistance Program was the appropriate mechanism for this. He did not feel that a further outreach effort was needed, but noted that services are discussed when relevant in disciplinary actions or employees come forward voluntarily. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed commented that the list of recipients for this year's recognition dinner were "astounding." She encouraged Board members to start making note of candidates for the 2001 recognition. This year's ceremony is scheduled to take place the week of May 15. She commended Chief Johnson for his efforts to add dignity and stature to the occasion. Budget Sub-Committee-Commissioner O'Malley reported that the Department has submitted a revised FY2001 Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2000 budget proposal meeting the Mayor's target. Accompanying the proposal is a memo from the Chief noting the impact of the reductions. A meeting with the May is scheduled for February 22. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and that all questions were answered to the committee's satisfaction. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, distributed a draft summary of 1999 cases which he investigated. He noted that 25 of the 30 cases were closed. The Chief and various Board members offered suggestions for change. Commissioner Frederick encouraged other comments be directed to Mr. Brantley. She noted that Mr. Brantley's one year evaluation was overdue. She is working with Dr. Rhodes-Reed on the evaluation and invited Board members to submit comments. She announced that she was in receipt of the Internal Affairs 1999 summary and offered to provide copies to all Board members. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Sims - none. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - commended Dr. Rhodes-Reed on the handling of concerns related to the fire at Oliver Towers. Commissioner O'Malley - reminded Board members of the upcoming budget meeting with the Mayor. Commissioner Newcomb - none Commissioner Quinney - none Commissioner Frederick - none ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Johnson Chief Johnson reminded the Board that there March meeting is to be held in Council chambers and will be televised on the City's cable channel. He also reported that the annual report is being completed. The Chief noted the introduction of two proposed City Ordinances. First, exempting the use of remote car starters from citations for leaving an unattended vehicle running. Second, permitting the forfeiture of vehicles used in solicitation and drug traffic crimes. He commented on recent high profile cases including the beating and stabbing of a man on Dorchester Circle. He announced the impending arrest of two people. He also announced that a suspect had been confirmed in the Dreamgirls case and an arrest could be made within hours. In the case of a young girl being assaulted, it was discovered that the offenders were boys too young to prosecute. Regarding Ofc. Funk's vehicle accident, the LPD Traffic Review Board has submitted a report for the Chief to review. Deputy Chief Perry-Buse reported on a proposed four to six hour "mini- Citizens Police Academy" targeted for March 17. She invited Board members to participate. OTHER BUSINESS After some discussion centered on differences between" rules of conduct" and "procedures," the Board approved the new Rules of Conduct Procedure. PUBLIC COMMENT Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of February 15, 2000 Jan Witwer, member of the Police / Community Relations Board informed the Board of her interest in maintaining involvement in this area even if the Board is disbanded. Dr. Genice Rhodes-Reed speculated on the future of Oliver Towers building / site. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:27 p.m. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS _ MEETING MINUTES r TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: CLEF)" Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Pete Canady Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Roger Newcomb Commissioner Linda Sims GUESTS: Councilmember Carol Wood MEMBERS EXCUSED: Bob Egan, Community Services and Human Commissioner Derrick Quinney Relations Board Commissioner Maria Mejorado Rev. Roger Pohl, Community Services and Human Relations Board MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. She requested that the meetings business be conducted in a timely manner in order to conclude by 7:00 p.m. and avoid running concurrently with the weekly City Council meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items City Councilmember, Carol Wood introduced herself to the Board and noted her position as Vice-Chair of the Public Services Committee. She look forward to working with the Board and encouraged them to contact her with any issues which they would have addressed by her committee. She noted that the Public Safety Committee may move its meeting time to later in the afternoon to accommodate more members of the public. She also noted that the committee will vary its meeting sites in order to be more accessible to the public. Commissioner Newcomb welcomed her and explained his role as chair of the Board's Liaison Committee. Bob Egan and Rev. Roger Pohl introduced themselves as representing the Community Services and Human Relations Board. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Chairman Frederick requested that a discussion of the City's Police / Community Relations Board be added to the agenda under "Unfinished Business." APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of December 18, 1999, were approved with two changes and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Police / Community Relations Board - Commissioners Frederick, Sims, Farhat-Reed and Quinney attended a meeting of this board last month at which a discussion was held concerning the public's utilization of it relative to its mission. Discussion of the PCR board's future included input from Bob Egan. Comments were made that Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of January 18, 2000 the PCR board was particularly instrumental in working with senior citizens and young people. A motion was passed offering to absorb PCR's objectives into the Board of Police Commissioners by creating a new committee to be led by a Board member, but whose membership would be made up of members of the community and Police Department. This committee would need to provide an outreach effort, but might only meet formally three to four times per year. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. Paul McComb announced that the FOP's suit against the Board is being withdrawn. Commissioner Frederick expressed her appreciation for the work that both Paul McComb and Jack Jordan had done to resolve the suit and she is looking forward to rebuilding a strong relationship between the Board and the FOP. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Newcomb asked about the handling of letters which the Department received which are negative in nature. Chief Johnson commented that they are referred to Internal Affairs and are reflected in the IA report when in the form of a complaint. Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for December 1999 - The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report- Commissioners expressed appreciation for the graph accompanying the Staffing Report which showed the Department's trend toward increased hiring of women and minorities. The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reminded Board members that members of City Council would like a joint meeting over dinner. He will work with them to determine a suitable date. Education Committee-Commissioner Farhat-Reed volunteered to serve on this committee which would arrange for various Department programs to be presented to Board members. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that candidates for annual citations have been selected and informational packets are being mailed next week. Awards and citations are presented in May. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported that the Department will meet with the City Finance Director and representatives of the Mayor's office next week to discuss the FY2001 LPD budget proposal. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Canady asked that Chief Johnson and Commissioner Frederick determine a time to meet with him regarding committee issues. Commissioner Frederick agreed to contact the Chief's office. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and committee members had questions on only one case. Committee questions were answered to their satisfaction. Commissioner Newcomb requested information relative to the dismissal of two employees. Chief Johnson explained that a 911 Emergency Communications Technician had failed to pass the training program Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of January 18, 2000 and that a cadet had exhibited behavior unbecoming to their position while visiting Western Michigan University. He also updated the Board on the ongoing investigation on an accident involving an officer driving a Department Tahoe. He noted that the officer has requested that GM retrieve the "black boxes" from the vehicles involved and that the Michigan State Police is assisting as the investigation continues. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, reported that of the 31 complaints brought to him in 1999, all but seven have been closed. No complaints for 2000 have come to him as yet. Commissioner Newcomb requested that Mr. Brantley prepare a summary on the 31 1999 cases once they are all closed. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Sims - spoke very favorably on her experience doing a ride-along with Lt. Forrest. She complemented him on his patience with her and on the professionalism of officers in general. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - no comments Commissioner Canady - commended the Department on the usefulness of its FTO program. Commissioner Frederick - no comments Commissioner O'Malley - no comments Commissioner Newcomb - no comments Commissioner Quinney - no comments ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Johnson Chief Johnson announced that Captain assignments have been completed and that the Department will be sponsoring six recruits to the police academy which begins in January. He distributed copies of the Mayor's stated goals for calendar year 2000 and invited Board members to a reception and State of the City address to be given the following Monday at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing. He distributed copies of calendar year 1999 crime statistics and pointed out the reduction in Part I crimes as their two year decrease is twenty percent. A calendar year summary of IA complaints is expected to be complete before the February Board meeting. Use of force date for the year will also be made available. OTHER BUSINESS The Board approved the Supplemental Employment Procedure. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m. DRAFT BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS MEETING MINUTES TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2000 MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Commissioner Deb Frederick, Chair Chief Robert Johnson Commissioner Derrick Quinney, Vice Chair Paul McComb, Legal Advisor Commissioner Pete Canady Jim DeLine, Secretary Commissioner Patty Farhat-Reed Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator Commissioner Kevin O'Malley Commissioner Roger Newcomb GUESTS: Commissioner Linda Sims Councilmember Carol Wood Bob Egan, Community Services and Human MEMBERS EXCUSED: Relations Board Commissioner Derrick Quinney Rev. Roger Pohl, Community Services and Human Comffi ssigfler Maria Mejorado Relations Board .. u MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC: None CALL TO ORDER - Chairperson Frederick �.J Chairperson Frederick called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. after having established a quorum. She requested that the meetings business be conducted in a timely manner in order to conclude by 7:00 p.m. and avoid running concurrently with the weekly City Council meeting. PUBLIC COMMENT - Agenda Items City Councilmember, Carol Wood introduced herself to the Board and noted her position as Vice-Chair of the Public Services Committee. She look forward to working with the Board and encouraged them to contact her with any issues which they would have addressed by her committee. She noted that the Public Safety Committee may move its meeting time to later in the afternoon to accommodate more members of the public. She also noted that the committee will vary its meeting sites in order to be more accessible to the public. Commissioner Newcomb welcomed her and explained his role as chair of the Board's Liaison Committee. Bob Egan and Rev. Roger Pohl introduced themselves as representing the Community Services and Human Relations Board. ADDITIONS TO AGENDA Chairman Frederick requested that a discussion of the City's Police / Community Relations Board be added to the agenda under "Unfinished Business." APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Chairperson Frederick The Minutes of the regular meeting of December 18, 1999, were approved with two changes and placed on file. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Police / Community Relations Board - Commissioners Frederick, Sims, Farhat-Reed and Quinney attended a meeting of this board last month at which a discussion was held concerning the public's utilization of it relative to its mission. Discussion of the PCR board's future included input from Bob Egan. Comments were made that Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of January 18, 2000 the PCR board was particularly instrumental in working with senior citizens and young people. A motion was passed offering to absorb PCR's objectives into the Board of Police Commissioners by creating a new committee to be led by a Board member, but whose membership would be made up of members of the community and Police Department. This committee would need to provide an outreach effort, but might only meet formally three to four times per year. FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE No FOP representatives were present. Paul McComb announced that the FOP's suit against the Board is being withdrawn. Commissioner Frederick expressed her appreciation for the work that both Paul McComb and jack Jordan had done to resolve the suit and she is looking forward to rebuilding a strong relationship between the Board and the FOP. CORRESPONDENCE - Chairperson Frederick Commissioner Newcomb asked about the handling of letters which the Department received which are negative in nature. Chief Johnson commented that they are referred to Internal Affairs and are reflected in the IA report when in the form of a complaint. Correspondence was accepted and placed on file. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS Monthly Report for December 1999 - The Monthly Departmental Report was accepted and placed on file. Communications Department Report - The Communications Department Report was accepted and placed on file. Staffing Report- Commissioners expressed appreciation for the graph accompanying the Staffing Report which showed the Department's trend toward increased hiring of women and minorities. The Staffing Report was accepted and placed on file. BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Liaison Committee - Commissioner Newcomb reminded Board members that members of City Council would like a joint meeting over dinner. He will work with them to determine a suitable date. Education Committee- Commissioner Farhat-Reed volunteered to serve on this committee which would arrange for various Department programs to be presented to Board members. Awards, Citations & Incentives Committee - Commissioner Farhat-Reed reported that candidates for annual citations have been selected and informational packets are being mailed next week. Awards and citations are presented in May. Budget Sub-Committee - Commissioner O'Malley reported that the Department will meet with the City Finance Director and representatives of the Mayor's office next week to discuss the FY2001 LPD budget proposal. Human Resources Committee - Commissioner Canady asked that Chief Johnson and Commissioner Frederick determine a time to meet with him regarding committee issues. Commissioner Frederick agreed to contact the Chief's office. Complaint Committee - Commissioner Frederick reported that the monthly meeting with Internal Affairs was held and committee members had questions on only one case. Committee questions were answered to their satisfaction. Commissioner Newcomb requested information relative to the dismissal of two employees. Chief Johnson explained that a 911 Emergency Communications Technician had failed to pass the training program Board of Police Commissioners Meeting Minutes of January 18, 2000 and that a cadet had exhibited behavior unbecoming to their position while visiting Western Michigan University. He also updated the Board on the ongoing investigation on an accident involving an officer driving a Department Tahoe. He noted that the officer has requested that GM retrieve the "black boxes" from the vehicles involved and that the Michigan State Police is assisting as the investigation continues. Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator, reported that of the 31 complaints brought to him in 1999, all but seven have been closed. No complaints for 2000 have come to him as yet. Commissioner Newcomb requested that Mr. Brantley prepare a summary on the 31 1999 cases once they are all closed. COMMISSIONERS' COMMENTS Commissioner Sims - spoke very favorably on her experience doing a ride-along with Lt. Forrest. She complemented him on his patience with her and on the professionalism of officers in general. Commissioner Farhat-Reed - no comments Commissioner Canady - commended the Department on the usefulness of its FTO program. Commissioner Frederick - no comments Commissioner O'Malley - no comments Commissioner Newcomb - no comments Commissioner Quinney - no comments ADMINISTRATIVE COMMENTS - Chief Johnson Chief Johnson announced that Captain assignments have been completed and that the Department will be sponsoring six recruits to the police academy which begins in January. He distributed copies of the Mayor's stated goals for calendar year 2000 and invited Board members to a reception and State of the City address to be given the following Monday at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing. He distributed copies of calendar year 1999 crime statistics and pointed out the reduction in Part I crimes as their two year decrease is twenty percent. A calendar year summary of IA complaints is expected to be complete before the February Board meeting. Use of force date for the year will also be made available. OTHER BUSINESS The Board approved the Supplemental Employment Procedure. PUBLIC COMMENT None. ADJOURNMENT - Chairperson Frederick There being no other business to discuss, Commissioner Frederick adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.