HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013 Board of Police Commissioners Minutes - All BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Drew Macon Relations & Community Services
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Jan Kolp Jim DeLine, Secretary
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Commissioner Maria Mejorado None
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30
p.m. She led the Board in a moment of silence in honor of former Board member Pete Canady who
passed away earlier this month. Commissioner Farhat led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance',
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None. ?
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of December 18 were approved as presented and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Chief Szymanski introduced Tristan Eagon, new LPD Legal Advisor. Tristan is under contract to the City
for six months. She has interned with the City Attorney's office and has served as a sworn officer in South
Carolina and Ohio. In South Carolina, officers also serve as prosecutor for tickets which they issue.
Commissioners suggested that she be given an LPD orientation similar to that which they receive when
coming on the Board and include a ride-along. Tristan will be assisting in the formation of procedures and
promised to acquaint herself with Board language in the City Charter.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski reported that she spoke at the funeral of former Board member Canady and she
expressed her appreciation to Board members who attended. She informed the Board of a homicide
occurring in Lansing on New Year's Day. In general, Part One crimes in the first six months of 2012
decreased per the FBI. It will probably be in July when they release figures for the second six months.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of January 15, 2013
Page 2
The Chief also reported on a recent joint effort by LPD Special Ops, the ATF, the U.S. Marshall's office
and LPD Patrol. The result was that, last Thursday, 19 indictments were handed down for people deemed
responsible for many violent crimes occurring in the past two years.
She informed the Board of the recent loss of Ofc. Terry Blount's sister due to a car accident and the loss
of Lt. Jim Kraus' mother due to a lingering illness. She announced the retirement of Lead Detention
Officer Joe Diaz, who will be going to work for the State of Michigan, and the resignation of Detention
Officer Michael Schuyler, who will be joining the Flint Township Police Department.
Chief Szymanski discussed her participation in the Annual Training sessions required of sworn personnel
which now is conducted at the South Washington Office Complex(SWOC).
In answer to a question from Commissioner Kolp, the Chief noted that community 911 concerns are being
addressed. The director and the 911 Advisory Board are working hard on them and technology is being
updated. She also noted the LPD is represented on the advisory board.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported that the holidays were busy for HRCS. She discussed the
participation of LPD and LFD in the St. Thomas Adopt A Family event. There were times when LPD
officers delivered gifts to homes where residents were hesitant to answer the door. It's the cops!
She announced a successful One Church / One Family placement by St. Gerard's and a Christmas
breakfast at Advent House which suffered a power outage but was attended by over 1,500 people. Dean
Transportation provided transportation.
The mobile food pantry is being held at the Tabernacle of David this month. The merger of local food
banks is still a work in progress as they work the "bugs" out. She also announced the January 30 Point-
In-Time count which counts homeless individuals. Commissioner Macon agreed to assist.
Dr. Jackson Johnson invited everyone to a Martin Luther King, Jr. event to be held in City Hall. Join us for
a free meal. She also praised the work of Bernard Brantley for his flexibility, his energy and his
leadership.
In answer to a question from Commissioner Farhat, Dr. Jackson Johnson discussed issues at St. Vincent
DePaul's including the anticipated reopening of the store and the HUD contract which she does not
expect to be renewed. Finally, she was saddened by a homicide that occurred in a family which was low
on baby formula, but had put themselves in a position where their request for formula was turned down.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of December was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Jim DeLine explained that the Special Operations Section was experiencing turnover and vacation
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of January 15, 2013
Page 3
absences but expected to be back to issuing their regular monthly report soon. Department reports for the
month of December were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson discussed Board
representation at the funeral of Pete Canady. It was the vacancy on the Board created by Pete that was
filled by her in 2000.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that the committee is meeting this
month and has set the date of May 15 for the ceremony. The location is still being determinded.
Budget Committee— Commissioner Renfew reported that the administration has requested a "status quo"
budget which the staff is working on. It will be presented to the Board at its February meeting.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat reported that the committee has a meeting scheduled for
January 30.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Farhat — shared reminiscences of Pete Canady, who in addition to be on the Board of
Police Commissioners was "a special friend of the family." She also asked for prayers of healing for
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson's father.
Commissioner Macon— had no further comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek— had no further comments.
Commissioner Kolp— had no further comments.
Commissioner Renfrew — informed the Board of a recent setback experienced by former Chief of Police
Richard Gleason who is back in the hospital.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — informed the Board that her father's recent triple bypass surgery was
a success and he is now recovering.
OTHER BUSINESS/ DISCUSSION ITEMS
Chief Szymanski distributed the LPD "Report Card" and informed the Board that it would be submitted to
the Mayor this week. A discussion followed on the difference between the Report Card and the Annual
Report, which the Chief assured the Board would have more data as it is used for a historical document.
It will likely contain fewer pictures and "fluff." Commissioners Kolp and Noordhoek suggested that officers
receiving significant recognition also be included by name.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT- Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:19 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 15, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowa]k-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of H�Man
Commissioner Drew Macon Relations & Community Services
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Bernard Brantley, Commission InvestLgator F1
Commissioner Jan Kolp Jim DeLine, Secretary I C7
UN ;7
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Commissioner Maria Mejorado None — _
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
i--
�7
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30
p.m. She led the Board in a moment of silence in honor of former Board member Pete Canady who
passed away earlier this month. Commissioner Farhat led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of December 18 were approved as presented and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Chief Szymanski introduced Tristan Eagon, new LPD Legal Advisor. Tristan is under contract to the City
for six months. She has interned with the City Attorney's office and has served as a sworn officer in South
Carolina and Ohio. In South Carolina, officers also serve as prosecutor for tickets which they issue.
Commissioners suggested that she be given an LPD orientation similar to that which they receive when
coming on the Board and include a ride-along. Tristan will be assisting in the formation of procedures and
promised to acquaint herself with Board language in the City Charter.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski reported that she spoke at the funeral of former Board member Canady and she
expressed her appreciation to Board members who attended. She informed the Board of a homicide
occurring in Lansing on New Year's Day. In general, Part One crimes in the first six months of 2012
decreased per the FBI. It will probably be in July when they release figures for the second six months.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of January 15, 2013
Page 2
The Chief also reported on a recent joint effort by LPD Special Ops, the ATF, the U.S. Marshall's office
and LPD Patrol. The result was that, last Thursday, 19 indictments were handed down for people deemed
responsible for many violent crimes occurring in the past two years.
She informed the Board of the recent loss of Ofc. Terry Blount's sister due to a car accident and the loss
of Lt. Jim Kraus' mother due to a lingering illness. She announced the retirement of Lead Detention
Officer Joe Diaz, who will be going to work for the State of Michigan, and the resignation of Detention
Officer Michael Schuyler, who will be joining the Flint Township Police Department.
Chief Szymanski discussed her participation in the Annual Training sessions required of sworn personnel
which now is conducted at the South Washington Office Complex(SWOC).
In answer to a question from Commissioner Kolp, the Chief noted that community 911 concerns are being
addressed. The director and the 911 Advisory Board are working hard on them and technology is being
updated. She also noted the LPD is represented on the advisory board.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported that the holidays were busy for HRCS. She discussed the
participation of LPD and LFD in the St. Thomas Adopt A Family event. There were times when LPD
officers delivered gifts to homes where residents were hesitant to answer the door. It's the cops!
She announced a successful One Church / One Family placement by St. Gerard's and a Christmas
breakfast at Advent House which suffered a power outage but was attended by over 1,500 people. Dean
Transportation provided transportation.
The mobile food pantry is being held at the Tabernacle of David this month. The merger of local food
banks is still a work in progress as they work the "bugs" out. She also announced the January 30 Point-
In-Time count which counts homeless individuals. Commissioner Macon agreed to assist.
Dr. Jackson Johnson invited everyone to a Martin Luther King, Jr. event to be held in City Hall. Join us for
a free meal. She also praised the work of Bernard Brantley for his flexibility, his energy and his
leadership.
In answer to a question from Commissioner Farhat, Dr. Jackson Johnson discussed issues at St. Vincent
DePaul's including the anticipated reopening of the store and the HUD contract which she does not
expect to be renewed. Finally, she was saddened by a homicide that occurred in a family which was low
on baby formula, but had put themselves in a position where their request for formula was turned down.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of December was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Jim DeLine explained that the Special Operations Section was experiencing turnover and vacation
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of January 15,2013
Page 3
absences but expected to be back to issuing their regular monthly report soon. Department reports for the
month of December were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson discussed Board
representation at the funeral of Pete Canady. It was the vacancy on the Board created by Pete that was
filled by her in 2000.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that the committee is meeting this
month and has set the date of May 15 for the ceremony. The location is still being determinded.
Budget Committee— Commissioner Renfew reported that the administration has requested a "status quo"
budget which the staff is working on. It will be presented to the Board at its February meeting.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat reported that the committee has a meeting scheduled for
January 30.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Farhat — shared reminiscences of Pete Canady, who in addition to be on the Board of
Police Commissioners was "a special friend of the family." She also asked for prayers of healing for
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson's father.
Commissioner Macon—had no further comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no further comments.
Commissioner Kolp—had no further comments.
Commissioner Renfrew — informed the Board of a recent setback experienced by former Chief of Police
Richard Gleason who is back in the hospital.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — informed the Board that her father's recent triple bypass surgery was
a success and he is now recovering.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Chief Szymanski distributed the LPD "Report Card" and informed the Board that it would be submitted to
the Mayor this week. A discussion followed on the difference between the Report Card and the Annual
Report, which the Chief assured the Board would have more data as it is used for a historical document.
It will likely contain fewer pictures and "fluff." Commissioners Kolp and Noordhoek suggested that officers
receiving significant recognition also be included by name.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:19 P.M.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Drew Macon Relations & Community Services
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Jan Kolp Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC /GUESTS:
MEMBERS EXCUSED: None
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30.,;-'`
p.m. Commissioner Carnegie led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None. r�
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A spelling correction was noted. The minutes of the regular meeting of January 15 were approved as
amended and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
In lieu of an Education Presentation, the Department's fiscal year 2014 budget document was reviewed.
LPD Budget Control Supervisor, Jim DeLine, discussed the meaning of the administration's request for
submission of a "status quo" budget and pointed out areas where costs are expected to rise. He noted
that the Department feels that a raise for crossing guards is warranted and one is include in the budget
proposal. He noted meeting with the Board's Budget Committee and he answered questions from Board
members. The following motion was made by the Budget Committee and passed by the Board:
"The Budget Committee moves the acceptance of the Lansing
Police Department's FY 2014 'status quo' budget proposal as
presented and direct that it be forwarded to Mayor Bernero for his
consideration. We further voice our support of Chief Szymanski and
her staff in discussions with the Mayor as a final proposal is
prepared for presentation to the City Council. We are confident they
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 2
will protect the core services provided by the Department as they
progress through the budget process."
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski expressed her appreciation to Jim DeLine for his budget work and for serving as her
mentor on budget issues in her time as Chief of Police. She reported on events in which she was in
attendance since the last Board meeting. These included Martin Luther King, Jr. events, the Bea Christy
Awards dinner, the funeral of retired Lt. Robert Moss, a breakfast for the Lansing food bank
organizations, Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police meetings in Grand Rapids, a meet-up with new
Eaton County Sheriff Tom Reich, and the Ruth Hallman Birthday event.
She announced the resignation of technician Jason Pierce and the retirement of Lead Detention Officer
Joe Diaz. The exit interviews with them went well. Both have accepted positions with the State of
Michigan. Upcoming retirements include that of Detective Kim Kranich and Sergeant Bob Cantlon.
She also discussed the recent gun buyback event noting that 228 guns were turned in including four
assault weapons. The event is funded with donations which topped $10,000. In answer to a question from
the Board, the Chief discussed citizens who appeared near the event and offered to purchase guns for
cash. She noted that supporters of the program also showed up on nearby street corners. She also noted
that community dialog is an important component to the City's efforts to confront gun violence. We will
continue to offer gun locks and work with area schools, hospitals and other institutions offering AVI
(Active Violent Incident) training.
This Thursday, the Chief will accompany the Mayor for a City Hall on the Road event. She will also soon
be participating in a pastor summit and serving as a judge in the Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special
Olympics. She announced the upcoming Blue Mass to be held at St. Gerard's on March 10. Additionally,
in March, she will be visiting schools as a reader for National Reading Month.
Chief Szymanski informed the Board that officers donned black arm bands upon the anniversary of
Officer Julie Engleardt's on-duty death. She reported that she continues to be involved in the 911
advisory committee meeting with supervisors, Director Langdon, and Deputy Director Gaukel. She
informed the Board that there are currently eleven officers on light duty or leaves of absence.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported that, at the recent mobile food pantry held at South Church of the
Nazarene, they ran out of food. A new practice of preparing pre-made boxes was initiated which may
have added to the shortage. Efforts need to be made to provide seniors with food who may not be able to
attend and / or venture through the line filling their containers. The Meals on Wheels program cannot
serve the present demand due to a shortage of volunteers. At the mobile food pantry, the presence of
LPD Capt. Daryl Green and his hard working family was appreciated.
She announced the successful completion of another One Church / One Family move-in since the
Board's last meeting. She also discussed the Point in Time count which benefited from the assistance of
LPD officers. The count was up this year. She apologized to Commissioner Macon for the
miscommunication which resulted in his non-attendance. Dr. Jackson Johnson hopes to visit Columbus,
Ohio, to witness a program there which may have benefits that would transfer to Lansing. Homelessness
problems are exacerbated by the VOA not accepting sex offenders. The local "bozo" place is
accommodating people in very poor conditions. Over fifty people were there on count night. It helps that
the Fire Department provides some beds and she gave kudos to Mark Criss for the work done with
families and children in south Lansing.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 3
Other projects being worked on at HRCS include budget preparation, the Bloomberg Financial
Empowerment Center, and a joint project with CMH and MSU. Dr. Jackson Johnson expressed her
continued appreciation to the Board for its flexibility regarding Bernard Brantley's position of Commission
Investigator. He is great with HRCS visitors as well as finding grants.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson noted the exemplary letter from Terry Buda commending Ofc. David
Lowndes. The letter discussed notification of a death in the family. How thoughtful, yet difficult, it had to
be to write that letter. Correspondence for the month of January was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Department reports for the month of January were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/ Community Liaison Committee— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson expressed her appreciation of
Board members who continue to be present at public events. She hopes collaborative ventures with other
boards and City Council will soon come to fruition.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that the committee had a good
meeting and is pleased with the recommendations received. Working with Det. Kranich has been helpful
and Sgt. Thornburg continues to do a good job with the committee.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee—Commissioner Farhat reported that the committee's meetings are going well.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Farhat — discussed her attendance at the going-away luncheon for Jason Pierce. He was
a great asset to LPD.
Commissioner Macon— had no further comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek— had no further comments.
Commissioner Carnegie— had no further comments.
Commissioner Renfrew— provided Chief Szymanski with information from Dean Transportation regarding
dealing with disabled children (both offensively and defensively) and suggested it be included in officer
training programs.
Commissioner Kolp — informed the Board that her attendance at the going-away party for Jason Pierce
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 4
made her realize just how much many employees love LPD. We are fortunate indeed.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — expressed her appreciation to the budget committee and LPD staff
for their work on the budget document. It is obvious that a great deal of thoughtful work went into it even
amid the budget cuts which mandate other duties get priority.
OTHER BUSINESS / DISCUSSION ITEMS
Legal Advisor— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson offered Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, the opportunity
to provide input and requested that the secretary add a Legal Advisor report to the agenda each month.
Tristan reported that the past month has been "business as usual" with the exception of some legal work
regarding the gun buy back program. Regular activities included responding to FOIAs and working on
training bulletins.
Exit Interviews — Commissioner Macon commended the Chief for her use of the exit interview
mechanism. A discussion was held as to whether there was a value to add a member of the Board of
Police Commissioners to that interview. It was noted that at Jason Pierce's going-away party, he
commented that the Prints for Life program had ceased. Chief Szymanski noted that the Department still
has Prints for Life equipment and supplies. The Department is willing to utilize Community Policing
Officers and School Resource Officers to staff Prints for Life events including "zoo days."
Roster Update — Jim DeLine encouraged Board members to contact him with updates to the roster
included in the Board packet.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:41 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Drew Macon Relations & Community Services
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Jan Kolp Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/ GUESTS:
MEMBERS EXCUSED: None
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson '_
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order kt 5:30."�::
p.m. Commissioner Carnegie led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. -
C
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None. ^�
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA ,;
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A spelling correction was noted. The minutes of the regular meeting of January 15 were approved as
amended and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
In lieu of an Education Presentation, the Department's fiscal year 2014 budget document was reviewed.
LPD Budget Control Supervisor, Jim DeLine, discussed the meaning of the administration's request for
submission of a "status quo" budget and pointed out areas where costs are expected to rise. He noted
that the Department feels that a raise for crossing guards is warranted and one is include in the budget
proposal. He noted meeting with the Board's Budget Committee and he answered questions from Board
members. The following motion was made by the Budget Committee and passed by the Board:
"The Budget Committee moves the acceptance of the Lansing
Police Department's FY 2014 `status quo' budget proposal as
presented and direct that it be forwarded to Mayor Bernero for his
consideration. We further voice our support of Chief Szymanski and
her staff in discussions with the Mayor as a final proposal is
prepared for presentation to the City Council. We are confident they
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 2
will protect the core services provided by the Department as they
progress through the budget process."
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski expressed her appreciation to Jim DeLine for his budget work and for serving as her
mentor on budget issues in her time as Chief of Police. She reported on events in which she was in
attendance since the last Board meeting. These included Martin Luther King, Jr. events, the Bea Christy
Awards dinner, the funeral of retired Lt. Robert Moss, a breakfast for the Lansing food bank
organizations, Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police meetings in Grand Rapids, a meet-up with new
Eaton County Sheriff Tom Reich, and the Ruth Hallman Birthday event.
She announced the resignation of technician Jason Pierce and the retirement of Lead Detention Officer
Joe Diaz. The exit interviews with them went well. Both have accepted positions with the State of
Michigan. Upcoming retirements include that of Detective Kim Kranich and Sergeant Bob Cantlon.
She also discussed the recent gun buyback event noting that 228 guns were turned in including four
assault weapons. The event is funded with donations which topped $10,000, In answer to a question from
the Board, the Chief discussed citizens who appeared near the event and offered to purchase guns for
cash. She noted that supporters of the program also showed up on nearby street corners. She also noted
that community dialog is an important component to the City's efforts to confront gun violence. We will
continue to offer gun locks and work with area schools, hospitals and other institutions offering AVI
(Active Violent Incident)training.
This Thursday, the Chief will accompany the Mayor for a City Hall on the Road event. She will also soon
be participating in a pastor summit and serving as a judge in the Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special
Olympics. She announced the upcoming Blue Mass to be held at St. Gerard's on March 10. Additionally,
in March, she will be visiting schools as a reader for National Reading Month.
Chief Szymanski informed the Board that officers donned black arm bands upon the anniversary of
Officer Julie Engleardt's on-duty death. She reported that she continues to be involved in the 911
advisory committee meeting with supervisors, Director Langdon, and Deputy Director Gaukel. She
informed the Board that there are currently eleven officers on light duty or leaves of absence.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported that, at the recent mobile food pantry held at South Church of the
Nazarene, they ran out of food. A new practice of preparing pre-made boxes was initiated which may
have added to the shortage. Efforts need to be made to provide seniors with food who may not be able to
attend and / or venture through the line filling their containers. The Meals on Wheels program cannot
serve the present demand due to a shortage of volunteers. At the mobile food pantry, the presence of
LPD Capt. Daryl Green and his hard working family was appreciated.
She announced the successful completion of another One Church / One Family move-in since the
Board's last meeting. She also discussed the Point in Time count which benefited from the assistance of
LPD officers. The count was up this year. She apologized to Commissioner Macon for the
miscommunication which resulted in his non-attendance. Dr. Jackson Johnson hopes to visit Columbus,
Ohio, to witness a program there which may have benefits that would transfer to Lansing. Homelessness
problems are exacerbated by the VOA not accepting sex offenders. The local "bozo" place is
accommodating people in very poor conditions. Over fifty people were there on count night. It helps that
the Fire Department provides some beds and she gave kudos to Mark Criss for the work done with
families and children in south Lansing.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 3
Other projects being worked on at HRCS include budget preparation, the Bloomberg Financial
Empowerment Center, and a joint project with CMH and MSU. Dr. Jackson Johnson expressed her
continued appreciation to the Board for its flexibility regarding Bernard Brantley's position of Commission
Investigator. He is great with HRCS visitors as well as finding grants.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson noted the exemplary letter from Terry Buda commending Ofc. David
Lowndes. The letter discussed notification of a death in the family. How thoughtful, yet difficult, it had to
be to write that letter. Correspondence for the month of January was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Department reports for the month of January were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/ Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson expressed her appreciation of
Board members who continue to be present at public events. She hopes collaborative ventures with other
boards and City Council will soon come to fruition.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that the committee had a good
meeting and is pleased with the recommendations received. Working with Det. Kranich has been helpful
and Sgt. Thornburg continues to do a good job with the committee.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee—Commissioner Farhat reported that the committee's meetings are going well.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Farhat — discussed her attendance at the going-away luncheon for Jason Pierce. He was
a great asset to LPD.
Commissioner Macon— had no further comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no further comments.
Commissioner Carnegie— had no further comments.
Commissioner Renfrew— provided Chief Szymanski with information from Dean Transportation regarding
dealing with disabled children (both offensively and defensively) and suggested it be included in officer
training programs.
Commissioner Kolp — informed the Board that her attendance at the going-away party for Jason Pierce
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 4
made her realize just how much many employees love LPD. We are fortunate indeed.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — expressed her appreciation to the budget committee and LPD staff
for their work on the budget document. It is obvious that a great deal of thoughtful work went into it even
amid the budget cuts which mandate other duties get priority.
OTHER BUSINESS/ DISCUSSION ITEMS
Legal Advisor— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson offered Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, the opportunity
to provide input and requested that the secretary add a Legal Advisor report to the agenda each month.
Tristan reported that the past month has been "business as usual" with the exception of some legal work
regarding the gun buy back program. Regular activities included responding to FOIAs and working on
training bulletins.
Exit Interviews — Commissioner Macon commended the Chief for her use of the exit interview
mechanism. A discussion was held as to whether there was a value to add a member of the Board of
Police Commissioners to that interview. It was noted that at Jason Pierce's going-away party, he
commented that the Prints for Life program had ceased. Chief Szymanski noted that the Department still
has Prints for Life equipment and supplies. The Department is willing to utilize Community Policing
Officers and School Resource Officers to staff Prints for Life events including"zoo days."
Roster Update — Jim DeLine encouraged Board members to contact him with updates to the roster
included in the Board packet.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:41 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Drew Macon Relations & Community Services
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Jan Kolp Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS':
MEMBERS EXCUSED: None
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
C- C l
Jr
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson -'
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to (Feder sb5:3Ej
p.m. Commissioner Carnegie led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A spelling correction was noted. The minutes of the regular meeting of January 15 were approved as
amended and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
In lieu of an Education Presentation, the Department's fiscal year 2014 budget document was reviewed.
LPD Budget Control Supervisor, Jim DeLine, discussed the meaning of the administration's request for
submission of a "status quo" budget and pointed out areas where costs are expected to rise. He noted
that the Department feels that a raise for crossing guards is warranted and one is include in the budget
proposal. He noted meeting with the Board's Budget Committee and he answered questions from Board
members. The following motion was made by the Budget Committee and passed by the Board:
"The Budget Committee moves the acceptance of the Lansing
Police Department's FY 2014 'status quo' budget proposal as
presented and direct that it be forwarded to Mayor Bernero for his
consideration.We further voice our support of Chief Szymanski and
her staff in discussions with the Mayor as a final proposal is
prepared for presentation to the City Council.We are confident they
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 2
will protect the core services provided by the Department as they
progress through the budget process."
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski expressed her appreciation to Jim DeLine for his budget work and for serving as her
mentor on budget issues in her time as Chief of Police. She reported on events in which she was in
attendance since the last Board meeting. These included Martin Luther King, Jr. events, the Bea Christy
Awards dinner, the funeral of retired Lt. Robert Moss, a breakfast for the Lansing food bank
organizations, Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police meetings in Grand Rapids, a meet-up with new
Eaton County Sheriff Tom Reich, and the Ruth Hallman Birthday event.
She announced the resignation of technician Jason Pierce and the retirement of Lead Detention Officer
Joe Diaz. The exit interviews with them went well. Both have accepted positions with the State of
Michigan. Upcoming retirements include that of Detective Kim Kranich and Sergeant Bob Cantlon.
She also discussed the recent gun buyback event noting that 228 guns were turned in including four
assault weapons. The event is funded with donations which topped $10,000. In answer to a question from
the Board, the Chief discussed citizens who appeared near the event and offered to purchase guns for
cash. She noted that supporters of the program also showed up on nearby street corners. She also noted
that community dialog is an important component to the City's efforts to confront gun violence. We will
continue to offer gun locks and work with area schools, hospitals and other institutions offering AVI
(Active Violent Incident)training.
This Thursday, the Chief will accompany the Mayor for a City Hall on the Road event. She will also soon
be participating in a pastor summit and serving as a judge in the Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special
Olympics. She announced the upcoming Blue Mass to be held at St. Gerard's on March 10. Additionally,
in March, she will be visiting schools as a reader for National Reading Month.
Chief Szymanski informed the Board that officers donned black arm bands upon the anniversary of
Officer Julie Engleardt's on-duty death. She reported that she continues to be involved in the 911
advisory committee meeting with supervisors, Director Langdon, and Deputy Director Gaukel. She
informed the Board that there are currently eleven officers on light duty or leaves of absence.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported that, at the recent mobile food pantry held at South Church of the
Nazarene, they ran out of food. A new practice of preparing pre-made boxes was initiated which may
have added to the shortage. Efforts need to be made to provide seniors with food who may not be able to
attend and / or venture through the line filling their containers. The Meals on Wheels program cannot
serve the present demand due to a shortage of volunteers. At the mobile food pantry, the presence of
LPD Capt. Daryl Green and his hard working family was appreciated.
She announced the successful completion of another One Church / One Family move-in since the
Board's last meeting. She also discussed the Point in Time count which benefited from the assistance of
LPD officers. The count was up this year. She apologized to Commissioner Macon for the
miscommunication which resulted in his non-attendance. Dr. Jackson Johnson hopes to visit Columbus,
Ohio, to witness a program there which may have benefits that would transfer to Lansing. Homelessness
problems are exacerbated by the VOA not accepting sex offenders. The local "bozo" place is
accommodating people in very poor conditions. Over fifty people were there on count night. It helps that
the Fire Department provides some beds and she gave kudos to Mark Criss for the work done with
families and children in south Lansing.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 3
Other projects being worked on at HRCS include budget preparation, the Bloomberg Financial
Empowerment Center, and a joint project with CMH and MSU. Dr. Jackson Johnson expressed her
continued appreciation to the Board for its flexibility regarding Bernard Brantley's position of Commission
Investigator. He is great with HRCS visitors as well as finding grants.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson noted the exemplary letter from Terry Buda commending Ofc. David
Lowndes. The letter discussed notification of a death in the family. How thoughtful, yet difficult, it had to
be to write that letter. Correspondence for the month of January was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Department reports for the month of January were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/ Community Liaison Committee— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson expressed her appreciation of
Board members who continue to be present at public events. She hopes collaborative ventures with other
boards and City Council will soon come to fruition.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that the committee had a good
meeting and is pleased with the recommendations received. Working with Det. Kranich has been helpful
and Sgt. Thornburg continues to do a good job with the committee.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee—Commissioner Farhat reported that the committee's meetings are going well.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Farhat— discussed her attendance at the going-away luncheon for Jason Pierce. He was
a great asset to LPD.
Commissioner Macon— had no further comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek— had no further comments.
Commissioner Carnegie— had no further comments.
Commissioner Renfrew— provided Chief Szymanski with information from Dean Transportation regarding
dealing with disabled children (both offensively and defensively) and suggested it be included in officer
training programs.
Commissioner Kolp — informed the Board that her attendance at the going-away party for Jason Pierce
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of February 19, 2013
Page 4
made her realize just how much many employees love LPD. We are fortunate indeed.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — expressed her appreciation to the budget committee and LPD staff
for their work on the budget document. It is obvious that a great deal of thoughtful work went into it even
amid the budget cuts which mandate other duties get priority.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Legal Advisor— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson offered Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, the opportunity
to provide input and requested that the secretary add a Legal Advisor report to the agenda each month.
Tristan reported that the past month has been "business as usual" with the exception of some legal work
regarding the gun buy back program. Regular activities included responding to FOIAs and working on
training bulletins.
Exit Interviews — Commissioner Macon commended the Chief for her use of the exit interview
mechanism. A discussion was held as to whether there was a value to add a member of the Board of
Police Commissioners to that interview. It was noted that at Jason Pierce's going-away party, he
commented that the Prints for Life program had ceased. Chief Szymanski noted that the Department still
has Prints for Life equipment and supplies. The Department is willing to utilize Community Policing
Officers and School Resource Officers to staff Prints for Life events including "zoo days."
Roster Update — Jim DeLine encouraged Board members to contact him with updates to the roster
included in the Board packet.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:41 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MARCH 19,2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowa lk-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat via Skype Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Relations & Community Services
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Sgt. Joe Brown, Dive Team
Commissioner Jan Kolp Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Jim DeLine, Secretary r—
MEMBERS EXCUSED: =a
Commissioner Drew Macon MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Commissioner Maria Mejorado none "
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson �?
r-- n After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to 45rder 5:ii ,
p.m. Commissioner Carnegie led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A spelling correction was noted via an email from Commissioner Macon. The minutes of the regular
meeting of February 19 were approved as amended and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Sgt. Joe Brown, regional Dive Team commander, discussed the many aspects of the Dive Team including
gear used, training and the regional aspect of the team. The team conducts searches for bodies,
evidence, cars and even safes. They often process the underwater scene with video and /or photos, and
can take prints off victims found under water when necessary. Rescues are less frequent, but can be
conducted in a variety of circumstances including dam areas and in ice. The local waters can be
dangerous due to contaminates in it. Sgt. Brown passed around a mask used which included a
microphone, and also a photo showing someone in full dive gear. The team will occasionally give public
demonstrations. In answer to a question from the Board, he noted that Dive Team members customarily
do not rotate out and will often remain on the team until they retire. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
commended Sgt. Brown for the fine vignette on the Dive Team airing on the City cable television channel.
She encouraged people to try to catch it. Sgt. Brown noted how well the team works together and the
professionalism of the members. "They rock."
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of March 19, 2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski announced recent retirements including those of Sgt. Bob Cantlon and Det. Kim
Kranich. She expressed her appreciation to those Board members who attended the going-away
receptions. Promotions made following the retirements included Ofc. Rodney Anderson to sergeant and
Ofc. Matt Krumbach to detective. Other personnel changes occurring recently include Lt. Dave Nosotti's
transfer to Patrol (nights), Lt. Jim Kraus' transfer to Patrol (days), Lt. Tom Fabus' transfer to the Special
Operations Section, and Lt. Darin Southworth's transfer to the Detention Unit.
The Chief noted events she attended recently, but did spend a week away so Lt. Kraus attended the Blue
Mass representing LPD. She is participating in National Reading Month and she was in attendance at a
pastor's summit and will assist Dr. Jackson Johnson in organizing a summit to address issues of violence.
The Mayor, the Lansing School District Superintendent, and representatives of Community Mental Health
and Family Court among other organizations are expected to attend. Chief Szymanski and Tristan Eagon
presented today at the officers' annual training. In answer to a question from the Board, officers attend
these sessions in groups of 40—50.
Chief Szymanski commented on the budget process which is being impacted by the report of the Mayor's
Financial Health Team. This team's report is presently on-line and some of it's recommendations will be
included in the Mayor's budget proposal being presented to City Council next Monday. The Chief is
"cautiously optimistic"that the Police Department's portion of the Mayor's budget will be sufficient to
maintain our status quo and please the public. Her advice to the troops is to continue unabated. "No time
to panic, time to produce, everything is measured, don't sell yourself short."
She informed the Board that LPD is thinking ahead as Capt. Yankowski works with our partners to be
ready to assist in any post Final Four disturbances that may occur and to prepare for the Lansing
marathon to be held in April.
The Chief acknowledged the bad press received by LPD in the City Pulse concerning cold homicide
cases. There are "lessons to be learned" and she has made arrangements to meet with representative of
City Pulse next week. In answer to a question from the Board, she assured those present that LPD does
keep a list of open homicide cases. These are kept on the RMS system which was introduced in 2001.
Cases prior to 2001 are tougher to list. She also alerted the Board to a major investigation currently
being conducted by the Internal Affairs Unit and promised to keep them posted as the situation develops.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, reported on her presentation to the officers' annual training and her
attendance at a hospital arbitration where two officers testified. She commented on the professionalism of
the officers. Tristan also noted that, in the past month, she has processed 321 information requests under
FOIA including the very large example she brought. She also processed twenty reports, worked on
training bulletins, answered officer inquiries, and acted as LPD liaison to District Court, as well as to
others in a Courts, Cops and Counselors group.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on the recent mobile food pantry. Due to the weather, attendance
was down, but some deliveries to seniors were available. She is hoping that host churches will implement
increased deliveries. A "Meet the Need" initiative is being introduced and will bring many social service
agencies together in April.
She discussed the Financial Health Team's recommendation that her funds be reduced by 25% this year
and, over five years, be eliminated completely. She also discussed the Financial Empowerment Team's
work and it's ability to offer services in many languages. Dr. Jackson Johnson is also participating in
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of March 19,2013
Page 3
National Reading Month.
Dr. Jackson Johnson told of another One Family/ One Church move-in, but also related an eviction in the
program where lack of supervision resulted in an "ugly eviction." She updated the Board on the Point in
Time count and the movement at the "bozo place" to kick out some individuals. She is hopeful that the
detox center is willing to accept appropriate people when they have vacancies.
She discussed the open house / reopening of the LeRoy Froh community center which was attended by
Mayor Bernero. She also alerted the Board to repercussions from the sequestration which could have big
implications in next year's funding. A couple weeks ago, a summit was held with the agencies receiving
funding from HRCS in which each was asked to present justification for continuing to receive City funds.
Dr. Jackson Johnson reported that the anticipated need for the spring break feeding program is very high
and funds are short. However, funds for an early summer program will be boosted by a $10,000 grant.
Finally, she expressed her appreciation to the Board for its continued support for their employee, Bernard
Brantley, lending an expertise to her Department. His sensitivity and knowledge of resources available in
the community are very helpful.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of February was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Department reports for the month of February were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/ Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson expressed her appreciation of
Board members who continue to be present at community as well as LPD events.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that the committee is moving
forward toward its May event. Logistics are still being worked out as far as location. There is a good
chance that it will again be held in City Hall. Working with Sgt. Thornburg is"great."
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announce that a meeting is scheduled to be held in two
weeks.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Renfrew—had no further comments.
Commissioner Carnegie— had no further comments.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of March 19,2013
Page 4
Commissioner Farhat—had no further comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no further comments.
Commissioner Kolp — expressed her appreciation to Tristan Eagon, who is "engaged" and "refreshing."
She also expressed her appreciation to Dr. Jackson Johnson for her contributions. Dr. Jackson Johnson
is"a wonder."
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — echoed Commissioner Kolp's comments on Tristan Eagon and
suggested Tristan may expand her report into an education presentation at one point.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Police Academy Discussion — Discussion tabled until next month due to Commissioner Macon's
absence.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:21 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS,
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MARCH 19, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowa]k-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat via Skype Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Relations & Community Services
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Sgt. Joe Brown, Dive Team
Commissioner Jan Kolp Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Jim DeLine, Secretary
MEMBERS EXCUSED:
Commissioner Drew Macon MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/ GUESTS:
Commissioner Maria Mejorado none
CALL TO ORDER-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:33
p.m. Commissioner Carnegie led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items i-Jt
None.
,f
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None. t
W
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A spelling correction was noted via an email from Commissioner Macon. The minutes of the regular
meeting of February 19 were approved as amended and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Sgt. Joe Brown, regional Dive Team commander, discussed the many aspects of the Dive Team including
gear used, training and the regional aspect of the team. The team conducts searches for bodies,
evidence, cars and even safes. They often process the underwater scene with video and /or photos, and
can take prints off victims found under water when necessary. Rescues are less frequent, but can be
conducted in a variety of circumstances including dam areas and in ice. The local waters can be
dangerous due to contaminates in it. Sgt. Brown passed around a mask used which included a
microphone, and also a photo showing someone in full dive gear. The team will occasionally give public
demonstrations. In answer to a question from the Board, he noted that Dive Team members customarily
do not rotate out and will often remain on the team until they retire. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
commended Sgt. Brown for the fine vignette on the Dive Team airing on the City cable television channel.
She encouraged people to try to catch it. Sgt. Brown noted how well the team works together and the
professionalism of the members. "They rock."
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of March 19, 2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski announced recent retirements including those of Sgt. Bob Cantlon and Det. Kim
Kranich. She expressed her appreciation to those Board members who attended the going-away
receptions. Promotions made following the retirements included Ofc. Rodney Anderson to sergeant and
Ofc. Matt Krumbach to detective. Other personnel changes occurring recently include Lt. Dave Nosotti's
transfer to Patrol (nights), Lt. Jim Kraus' transfer to Patrol (days), Lt. Tom Fabus' transfer to the Special
Operations Section, and Lt. Darin Southworth's transfer to the Detention Unit.
The Chief noted events she attended recently, but did spend a week away so Lt. Kraus attended the Blue
Mass representing LPD. She is participating in National Reading Month and she was in attendance at a
pastor's summit and will assist Dr. Jackson Johnson in organizing a summit to address issues of violence.
The Mayor, the Lansing School District Superintendent, and representatives of Community Mental Health
and Family Court among other organizations are expected to attend. Chief Szymanski and Tristan Eagon
presented today at the officers' annual training. In answer to a question from the Board, officers attend
these sessions in groups of 40—50.
Chief Szymanski commented on the budget process which is being impacted by the report of the Mayor's
Financial Health Team. This team's report is presently on-line and some of it's recommendations will be
included in the Mayor's budget proposal being presented to City Council next Monday. The Chief is
"cautiously optimistic" that the Police Department's portion of the Mayor's budget will be sufficient to
maintain our status quo and please the public. Her advice to the troops is to continue unabated. "No time
to panic, time to produce, everything is measured, don't sell yourself short."
She informed the Board that LPD is thinking ahead as Capt. Yankowski works with our partners to be
ready to assist in any post Final Four disturbances that may occur and to prepare for the Lansing
marathon to be held in April.
The Chief acknowledged the bad press received by LPD in the City Pulse concerning cold homicide
cases. There are"lessons to be learned" and she has made arrangements to meet with representative of
City Pulse next week. In answer to a question from the Board, she assured those present that LPD does
keep a list of open homicide cases. These are kept on the RMS system which was introduced in 2001.
Cases prior to 2001 are tougher to list. She also alerted the Board to a major investigation currently
being conducted by the Internal Affairs Unit and promised to keep them posted as the situation develops.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, reported on her presentation to the officers' annual training and her
attendance at a hospital arbitration where two officers testified. She commented on the professionalism of
the officers. Tristan also noted that, in the past month, she has processed 321 information requests under
FOIA including the very large example she brought. She also processed twenty reports, worked on
training bulletins, answered officer inquiries, and acted as LPD liaison to District Court, as well as to
others in a Courts, Cops and Counselors group.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on the recent mobile food pantry. Due to the weather, attendance
was down, but some deliveries to seniors were available. She is hoping that host churches will implement
increased deliveries. A "Meet the Need" initiative is being introduced and will bring many social service
agencies together in April.
She discussed the Financial Health Team's recommendation that her funds be reduced by 25% this year
and, over five years, be eliminated completely. She also discussed the Financial Empowerment Team's
work and it's ability to offer services in many languages. Dr. Jackson Johnson is also participating in
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of March 19, 2013
Page 3
National Reading Month.
Dr. Jackson Johnson told of another One Family/One Church move-in, but also related an eviction in the
program where lack of supervision resulted in an "ugly eviction." She updated the Board on the Point in
Time count and the movement at the "bozo place" to kick out some individuals. She is hopeful that the
detox center is willing to accept appropriate people when they have vacancies.
She discussed the open house / reopening of the LeRoy Froh community center which was attended by
Mayor Bernero. She also alerted the Board to repercussions from the sequestration which could have big
implications in next year's funding. A couple weeks ago, a summit was held with the agencies receiving
funding from HRCS in which each was asked to present justification for continuing to receive City funds.
Dr. Jackson Johnson reported that the anticipated need for the spring break feeding program is very high
and funds are short. However, funds for an early summer program will be boosted by a $10,000 grant.
Finally, she expressed her appreciation to the Board for its continued support for their employee, Bernard
Brantley, lending an expertise to her Department. His sensitivity and knowledge of resources available in
the community are very helpful.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of February was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Department reports for the month of February were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson expressed her appreciation of
Board members who continue to be present at community as well as LPD events.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that the committee is moving
forward toward its May event. Logistics are still being worked out as far as location. There is a good
chance that it will again be held in City Hall. Working with Sgt. Thornburg is "great."
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announce that a meeting is scheduled to be held in two
weeks.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Renfrew—had no further comments.
Commissioner Carnegie— had no further comments.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of March 19, 2013
Page 4
Commissioner Farhat— had no further comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek— had no further comments.
Commissioner Kolp — expressed her appreciation to Tristan Eagon, who is "engaged" and "refreshing."
She also expressed her appreciation to Dr. Jackson Johnson for her contributions. Dr. Jackson Johnson
is "a wonder."
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — echoed Commissioner Kolp's comments on Tristan Eagon and
suggested Tristan may expand her report into an education presentation at one point.
OTHER BUSINESS I DISCUSSION ITEMS
Police Academy Discussion — Discussion tabled until next month due to Commissioner Macon's
absence.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT- Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:21 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski
Commissioner Patty Farhat via Skype Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Jan Kolp
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Commissioner Drew Macon Michael Zdebski, Poxson St
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Linda Hartman, Barstow Rd
Jane Parker, Forest Ave
MEMBERS EXCUSED: Sam Brewster, Lowcroft Ave
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Nick Perreault and camera operator, WLNS-TV
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:35
p.m. Commissioner Carnegie led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson led those present in a moment of silence in commemoration of the bombing at the Boston
Marathon and in memory of Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson's recently deceased mother-in-law and brother.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
Members of the Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board gave a presentation honoring retiring Chief of
Police Teresa Szymanski.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of March 19 were approved as presented and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
There was no Education Presentation in April. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson gave remarks
acknowledging Chief Szymanski's dedication and accomplishments during her time as Chief of Police.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski expressed that her retirement from LPD is "bittersweet" after twenty-six years with the
Lansing Police Department.
She announced the addition of two Canine officers who will be assigned to handlers, Ofc. Michelle Hood-
Marble and Ofc. Jimmy Garcia. This is a "frontloading" effort as we have some aging canines who will be
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013
Page 2
retired from service soon. The Chief also announced the retirement of Ofc. Lynne Kentner and expressed
her appreciation to Commissioner Macon for attending his retirement party. Ofc. Kentner was widely
known for his traffic enforcement efforts and even received the Richard Austin award which is directed in
that arena.
The Chief commended Commissioner Farhat for adding two new members to the Neighborhood Watch
Advisory Board. She also expressed her appreciation to Commissioners Macon and Kowalk-Thompson
for attending the Department's budget hearing before City Council's Committee of the Whole. She
announced that Capt. Green had represented the Department at the recent Moms Against Violence event
held at the State Capital. She noted the LPD's coordination of the Lansing Marathon coming up this
Sunday is being headed by Capt. Yankowski. The Chief assured the Board that he has a "solid plan" for
preparing for any situations that may occur. She also commended Lt. Judy Horning for successfully
acquiring a Byrne grant of $56,000 which will be used to purchase license plate readers and additional
radar equipment.
Chief Szymanski announced that the last of officers who were laid off have been offered jobs back at
LPD. We will now begin to assemble a hiring roster. Six certified officers have been interviewed and we
will also interview some new academy graduates. A Field Training Officer (FTO) program is being
reestablished with command and 16 officers who will be working with Bruce Sokolov and attending school
for training. The will also be trained in conducting background investigations of potential new employees.
The Chief informed the Board that there are currently six officers on our injury list. Mayor Bernero will be
announcing an interim Chief by week's end.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, was not present.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Bernard Brantley reported for Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson commenting that Chief Szymanski's retirement
will be a "huge loss" to HRCS. Working with her has been fun and she was someone on whom they could
always depend. He noted the recent Cesar Chavez event and a Spring Break program which served
1,200 individuals with 6,000 lunches. He expressed his appreciation to LPD for the officers who helped
with delivery.
Bernard announced this month's mobile food pantry to be held at St. Casmir's church and he distributed
information on a "Meet the Need" meeting to take place at Foster Community Center on Monday.
On a personal note, he commented that he would greatly miss Chief Szymanski, whom he considers a
reliable friend.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of March was accepted and placed on file.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013
Page 3
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Department reports for the month of March were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson noted her attendance at the
Department's budget hearing and expressed her appreciation to Board members who represent the
Board at both LPD and community functions.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that meetings have included lively
conversations and the result is that several good recipients will receive awards at the May 15 ceremony
which will be held at City Hall. Lt. Horning and Sgt. Thornburg have been great to work with.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announced that the February meeting was a good one.
They will meet next on April 24.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report. Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson commended him for the scope of his work.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Carnegie — commented that it is good to see Commissioner Mejorado back with us. He
congratulated Chief Szymanski on her retirement and expressed his appreciation for her years of service.
She did a great job of maintaining the integrity of the Department and was able to face challenges with a
professional attitude. She established a strong foundation of leadership within the Department while
remaining impartial, working well with the rank and file. Her adjustments to diminishing financial resources
was very commendable.
Commissioner Kolp— expressed her appreciation to Chief Szymanski for all she has done for LPD. Enjoy
your retirement!
Commissioner Macon — echoed the sentiments of Commissioners Carnegie and Kolp. He reminisced
being new on the Department and Chief Szymanski serving as his mentor.
Commissioner Farhat — echoed the sentiments of the previous speakers and noted Chief Szymanski's
leadership in working within the community. She helped reach the number of 180 neighborhood watches
and served as a cheerleader for the program, always keeping it on "the top shelf."
Commissioner Noordhoek— noted that Chief Szymanski was absolutely the right person for the job. She
did a great job for the City of Lansing in each of the different positions she held within the Department.
Commissioner Mejorado—echoed the sentiments of the previous speakers. We will miss you!
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson—echoed the sentiments of the previous speakers and commented that
Chief Szymanski led the Department with integrity and diplomacy. She commended her for suggesting
that, in lieu of retirement gifts or plaques, that donations be made to the Lansing Police Historical
Preservation Association. This was a very honorable thing to do.
OTHER BUSINESS/ DISCUSSION ITEMS
Police Academy Discussion — Commissioner Macon expounded on a draft letter distributed to Board
members whereby they would request that MCOLES not support the Michigan State Police establishment
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013
Page 4
of a regional police academy. Discussion was held concerning the relationship between MSP and
MCOLES. It was also mentioned that the LCC academy has graduated many fine officers hired by LPD.
The issue of an MSP academy was called important and referred to as a "hotbed" issue. Some Board
members felt it was an issue outside the Board's arena. The following motion was passed: Moved that
the Lansing Board of Police Commissioners not take a position on the Michigan State Police
proposal to initiate a basic regional training police academy. Yeas-4, nays-1, abstentions-1
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:11 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, APRIL 16,2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowa]k-Thompson, Chair Chief Teresa Szymanski ►.,
Commissioner Patty Farhat via Skype Bernard Brantley, Commission InvestTgato
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Jim DeLine, Secretary f`f
Commissioner Jan Kolp "` Cv
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUE_ S: r
Commissioner Drew Macon Michael Zdebski, Poxson St O1
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Linda Hartman, Barstow Rd
Jane Parker, Forest Ave
MEMBERS EXCUSED: Sam Brewster, Lowcroft Ave r-- no L
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Nick Perreault and camera operator;:_rWLNS-TV
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:35
p.m. Commissioner Carnegie led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson led those present in a moment of silence in commemoration of the bombing at the Boston
Marathon and in memory of Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson's recently deceased mother-in-law and brother.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
Members of the Neighborhood Watch Advisory Board gave a presentation honoring retiring Chief of
Police Teresa Szymanski.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of March 19 were approved as presented and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
There was no Education Presentation in April. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson gave remarks
acknowledging Chief Szymanski's dedication and accomplishments during her time as Chief of Police.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Szymanski expressed that her retirement from LPD is "bittersweet" after twenty-six years with the
Lansing Police Department.
She announced the addition of two Canine officers who will be assigned to handlers, Ofc. Michelle Hood-
Marble and Ofc. Jimmy Garcia. This is a "frontloading" effort as we have some aging canines who will be
i3oard of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013
Page 2
retired from service soon. The Chief also announced the retirement of Ofc. Lynne Kentner and expressed
her appreciation to Commissioner Macon for attending his retirement party. Ofc. Kentner was widely
known for his traffic enforcement efforts and even received the Richard Austin award which is directed in
that arena.
The Chief commended Commissioner Farhat for adding two new members to the Neighborhood Watch
Advisory Board. She also expressed her appreciation to Commissioners Macon and Kowalk-Thompson
for attending the Department's budget hearing before City Council's Committee of the Whole. She
announced that Capt. Green had represented the Department at the recent Moms Against Violence event
held at the State Capital. She noted the LPD's coordination of the Lansing Marathon coming up this
Sunday is being headed by Capt. Yankowski. The Chief assured the Board that he has a "solid plan" for
preparing for any situations that may occur. She also commended Lt. Judy Horning for successfully
acquiring a Byrne grant of $56,000 which will be used to purchase license plate readers and additional
radar equipment.
Chief Szymanski announced that the last of officers who were laid off have been offered jobs back at
LPD. We will now begin to assemble a hiring roster. Six certified officers have been interviewed and we
will also interview some new academy graduates. A Field Training Officer (FTO) program is being
reestablished with command and 16 officers who will be working with Bruce Sokolov and attending school
for training. The will also be trained in conducting background investigations of potential new employees.
The Chief informed the Board that there are currently six officers on our injury list. Mayor Bernero will be
announcing an interim Chief by week's end.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, was not present.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Bernard Brantley reported for Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson commenting that Chief Szymanski's retirement
will be a "huge loss" to HRCS. Working with her has been fun and she was someone on whom they could
always depend. He noted the recent Cesar Chavez event and a Spring Break program which served
1,200 individuals with 6,000 lunches. He expressed his appreciation to LPD for the officers who helped
with delivery.
Bernard announced this month's mobile food pantry to be held at St. Casmir's church and he distributed
information on a "Meet the Need" meeting to take place at Foster Community Center on Monday.
On a personal note, he commented that he would greatly miss Chief Szymanski, whom he considers a
reliable friend.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of March was accepted and placed on file.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2013
Page 3
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Department reports for the month of March were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson noted her attendance at the
Department's budget hearing and expressed her appreciation to Board members who represent the
Board at both LPD and community functions.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek reported that meetings have included lively
conversations and the result is that several good recipients will receive awards at the May 15 ceremony
which will be held at City Hall. Lt. Horning and Sgt. Thornburg have been great to work with.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announced that the February meeting was a good one.
They will meet next on April 24.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report. Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson commended him for the scope of his work.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Carnegie — commented that it is good to see Commissioner Mejorado back with us. He
congratulated Chief Szymanski on her retirement and expressed his appreciation for her years of service.
She did a great job of maintaining the integrity of the Department and was able to face challenges with a
professional attitude. She established a strong foundation of leadership within the Department while
remaining impartial, working well with the rank and file. Her adjustments to diminishing financial resources
was very commendable.
Commissioner Kolp— expressed her appreciation to Chief Szymanski for all she has done for LPD. Enjoy
your retirement!
Commissioner Macon — echoed the sentiments of Commissioners Carnegie and Kolp. He reminisced
being new on the Department and Chief Szymanski serving as his mentor.
Commissioner Farhat — echoed the sentiments of the previous speakers and noted Chief Szymanski's
leadership in working within the community. She helped reach the number of 180 neighborhood watches
and served as a cheerleader for the program, always keeping it on "the top shelf."
Commissioner Noordhoek— noted that Chief Szymanski was absolutely the right person for the job. She
did a great job for the City of Lansing in each of the different positions she held within the Department.
Commissioner Mejorado—echoed the sentiments of the previous speakers. We will miss you!
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson —echoed the sentiments of the previous speakers and commented that
Chief Szymanski led the Department with integrity and diplomacy. She commended her for suggesting
that, in lieu of retirement gifts or plaques, that donations be made to the Lansing Police Historical
Preservation Association. This was a very honorable thing to do.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Police Academy Discussion — Commissioner Macon expounded on a draft letter distributed to Board
members whereby they would request that MCOLES not support the Michigan State Police establishment
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of April 16,2013
Page 4
of a regional police academy. Discussion was held concerning the relationship between MSP and
MCOLES. It was also mentioned that the LCC academy has graduated many fine officers hired by LPD.
The issue of an MSP academy was called important and referred to as a "hotbed" issue. Some Board
members felt it was an issue outside the Board's arena. The following motion was passed: Moved that
the Lansing Board of Police Commissioners not take a position on the Michigan State Police
proposal to initiate a basic regional training police academy.Yeas-4, nays-1, abstentions-1
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:11 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MAY 21,2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowa]k-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski =z
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of HL[i)an �
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Relations and Community Services r i C-3
Commissioner Jan Kolp Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator°•'
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Drew Macon Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
Commissioner Bill Renfrew MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUE.f3fS:Z
Yvonne Caamal Canul, Superintendent of
MEMBERS EXCUSED: Lansing School District
Joan (guest of Commissioner Renfrew)
Granddaughter(Guest of Commissioner
Carnegie)
Linda Sims Wright, Lansing Visitors and
Convention Bureau
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:31
p.m. Commissioner Farhat led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson led those present in a moment of silence in honor of those affected by the recent tornadoes in
Oklahoma.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Without objection, discussion of a tee sponsorship at the annual golf outing in support of the Police
Athletic League (PAL) was added to the agenda under"Other Business."
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of April 16 were approved as presented and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Yvonne Caamal Canul, Superintendent of the Lansing School District, expressed her appreciation to the
Lansing Police Department for its continuing support of the school district. She opened the floor for
discussion topics and responded to questions and concerns on the restructuring of the district, enrollment
numbers, financial literacy and summer school. The superintendent discussed the use of i-pad
technology, a new newsletter and a presence in the Ingham Academy. She alerted the Board to a
program being conducted at Woodcreek Achievement Center which offers credit recovery and resources
for suspended students. This fall, 73 students will graduate utilizing this center. Commissioner Carnegie
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of May 21,2013
Page 2
commented on how fortunate we are that she was named superintendent. "She understands the district
well."
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Interim Chief Mike Yankowski expressed his appreciation to members of the Board for their support of the
Department and of him over the years. He is "humbled to lead this great organization." Chief Yankowski
discussed his support of problem-solving / data-driven strategies which ensure that we are able to funnel
resources to where they are most needed. He anticipates using more foot and bicycle patrols to better
engage with the community. In addition, he is developing other ideas which he hopes to bring to fruition.
The Chief highlighted many events over the months of April and May including the promotions of Lt. Jim
Kraus to captain and Sgt. Dave Emmons to lieutenant as well as outlining the latest lieutenant
assignments. He expressed his appreciation to members of the Board who attended the recent
fundraising breakfast held by the Explorer post and noted the LPD presence at both a Sheikh parade and
Police Memorial Week candlelight ceremony. He commended Commissioner Macon on his speech at the
Promise Kids (previously known as At-Risk) Awards. The Chief also noted the Crossing Guard
Appreciation Dinner by commenting that one crossing guard had been doing so for forty-five years.
Chief Yankowski noted that LPD hosted the Ingham County Police Memorial Service and expressed his
appreciation to Commissioner Noordhoek for being in attendance. He announced that LPD recently
received a certificate of recognition for its work at the Capitol during a protest of right to work legislation.
He informed the Board of recent training conducted at the Blue Cross / Blue Shield building focused on
how to react to violent situations. The Chief also announced that he was in receipt of a law enforcement
appreciation award from the Antioch Church pastored by Rev. Ed Thomas, a former LPD officer. Lansing
Police were also a major presence at the annual safety patrol picnic.
He discussed the fiscal year 2014 budget which was passed by City Council with amendments which the
Mayor may veto. Not controversial is the move of parking enforcement officers from the Transportation
Section to the Police Department which will occur on July 1. In answer to a question from the Board, he
noted that funding for the position comes from a parking fund, not taxpayer general fund. This move is
expected to allow LPD to maintain its Traffic Unit and reintroduce a supervisor at the sergeant level.
The Chief announced that the Department will soon establish a process for the hiring of Detention
Officers as well as Police Officers. We currently have the authorization to hire three police officers. He
noted upcoming events including a Cristo Rey festival, the Memorial Day parade and the retirement of
Det. Paul Creger.
Comments included Commissioner Kolp's request for the reestablishment of the recruiting committee,
Commissioner Farhat's expression of appreciation for the Chief's many spotlights of officers,
Commissioner Macon's announcement that he was aware of the Chief answering calls for service, and
Jim DeLine's notation of appreciation to the bicycle unit's participation in the "Ride of Silence"
commemorating bikers who have been injured or killed on public streets.
Chief Yankowski noted that he hopes to get the spotlights out on a timely basis. He also distributed drafts
of the LPD Annual Report. The following motion was passed: Moved that the Board of Police
Commissioners approve the Lansing Police Department 2012 Annual Report for publication. The
Chief noted that typographic errors and errors of omission can still be corrected. They should be
forwarded to Michelle Reddish.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, informed the Board that is was good to work with Interim Chief Yankowski.
He is on the forefront of modern day policing. She reported on monthly activity including the receipt of 415
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of May 21, 2013
Page 3
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in March (318 required review) and 472 in April (300+
required review). She gave kudos to Chief Yankowski on his presentation at the Law Enforcement
Memorial service. He was very articulate. She offered Board members hard copies of the training bulletins
sent via email if they so choose and discussed a "special edition" she would work on focused on the
phone issues. She also discussed working with attorneys from Blue Cross/ Blue Shield.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on summer programs planned with the assistance of faith-based
groups and that of the Boys and Girls Club. Many programs will occur in the public housing complexes.
She expressed her appreciation to LPD for assistance in the spring break program. Dr. Jackson Johnson
announced a new "Kids Connect" program which will occur this fall. Families will be offered clothing and
gift cards to help get them ready for the start of school. The gift cards will not be carte blanche but
monitored for appropriate use.
She also noted that shelter counts are up with 300+ families utilizing them in the Lansing area. She
commented on the HRCS budget which "survived" the process of City Council scrutiny. Dr. Jackson
Johnson discussed the "Meet the Need" initiative noting that training is being conducted to 70 agencies
and 40 churches in an effort to create a system which would eliminate the duplication of services. She
discussed BCFI (Building Child and Family Initiatives) and expressed her appreciation to Chief Yankowski
for his assistance at the Mobile Food Pantry. She announced that she was able to acquire$25,000 for the
area mission.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of April was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Kolp noted that she appreciates the canine information. Department reports for the month
of April were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson commended Board members
for their attendance at recent LPD events. She expressed her appreciation to Linda Sims Wright and new
LVCB president, Jack Schripsema, for allowing the Board to hold tonight's meeting in their conference
room.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek commended those who helped to organize
the awards ceremony. It was a "great" event with good attendance. The reception which followed was
very high quality. He is developing some new ideas for the future. Commissioners Farhat and Kowalk-
Thompson were also complimentary. Civilians were appreciated and Chief Yankowski's comments were
very good. The Chief noted that we may soon outgrow the space now being utilized for the event.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of May 21, 2013
Page 4
Complaint Committee—Commissioner Farhat announced that the next meeting will be held June 26.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report. Dr. Jackson Johnson
remarked how appreciative she is of Bernard.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Farhat — expressed her appreciation to Linda Sims Wright and the LVCB for their
hospitality and welcomed Interim Chief Yankowski to Board meetings and activities.
Commissioner Macon — had no additional comments.
Commissioner Kolp—congratulated Interim Chief Yankowski on his appointment. "We are proud of you."
Commissioner Mejorado — echoed the congratulations to the Chief and reminded Board members of the
upcoming Cristo Rey festival.
Commissioner Renfrew — noted that he has seen, first hand, the need to incoming Detention personnel
and is glad to see action being taken. He commented that Chief Yankowski will "make the Department."
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no additional comments.
Commissioner Carnegie — expressed his appreciation to former Board member, Linda Sims Wright, and
to the LVCB for their hospitality. He noted that, like Superintendent Yvonne Caamal Canul, Chief
Yankowski has the talent to go anywhere he chooses and yet he is in Lansing. We are very grateful for
his service. "You understand this City." He also reminded Board members that, as the holidays and
festival time are upon us, he appreciates our tradition of welcoming families and visitors coming to town.
We"treat them great."
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — expressed her appreciation to Linda Sims Wright and the LVCB for
the meeting space and for the use of their suite at Cooley Law School Stadium tonight. With food! She
commended Chief Yankowski for the Spotlights which he produces and congratulated Dr. Joan Jackson
Johnson on the passage of her budget. She was touched at being a participant in Chief Yankowski's
promotion ceremony and considers him "the consummate professional." Soon the selection process will
start for the permanent Chief position.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Discussion of Tee Sponsorship — PAL Golf Outing —The following motion was passed: Moved that
the Lansing Board of Police Commissioners become a PAL Golf Outing tee sponsor at the $100
level using funds donated by individual Board members. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson noted
that participation is voluntary and Board members are under no obligation to donate. Donations will be
channeled to Commissioner Farhat.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Linda Sims Wright thanked the Board for their presence at LVCB and reminded them of the upcoming Be
a Tourist in Your Own Hometown event.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:51 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human i
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Relations and Community Services
Commissioner Jan Kolp Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie Tristan Eagon, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Drew Macon Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
Commissioner Bill Renfrew MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Yvonne Caamal Canul, Superintendent of
MEMBERS EXCUSED: Lansing School District
Joan (guest of Commissioner Renfrew)
Granddaughter (Guest of Commissioner
Carnegie)
Linda Sims Wright, Lansing Visitors and
Convention Bureau
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:31
p.m. Commissioner Farhat led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson led those present in a moment of silence in honor of those affected by the recent tornadoes in
Oklahoma.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Without objection, discussion of a tee sponsorship at the annual golf outing in support of the Police
Athletic League (PAL)was added to the agenda under"Other Business."
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of April 16 were approved as presented and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Yvonne Caamal Canul, Superintendent of the Lansing School District, expressed her appreciation to the
Lansing Police Department for its continuing support of the school district. She opened the floor for
discussion topics and responded to questions and concerns on the restructuring of the district, enrollment
numbers, financial literacy and summer school. The superintendent discussed the use of i-pad
technology, a new newsletter and a presence in the Ingham Academy. She alerted the Board to a
program being conducted at Woodcreek Achievement Center which offers credit recovery and resources
for suspended students. This fall, 73 students will graduate utilizing this center. Commissioner Carnegie
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of May 21, 2013
Page 2
commented on how fortunate we are that she was named superintendent. "She understands the district
well."
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Interim Chief Mike Yankowski expressed his appreciation to members of the Board for their support of the
Department and of him over the years. He is "humbled to lead this great organization." Chief Yankowski
discussed his support of problem-solving / data-driven strategies which ensure that we are able to funnel
resources to where they are most needed. He anticipates using more foot and bicycle patrols to better
engage with the community. In addition, he is developing other ideas which he hopes to bring to fruition.
The Chief highlighted many events over the months of April and May including the promotions of Lt. Jim
Kraus to captain and Sgt. Dave Emmons to lieutenant as well as outlining the latest lieutenant
assignments. He expressed his appreciation to members of the Board who attended the recent
fundraising breakfast held by the Explorer post and noted the LPD presence at both a Sheikh parade and
Police Memorial Week candlelight ceremony. He commended Commissioner Macon on his speech at the
Promise Kids (previously known as At-Risk) Awards. The Chief also noted the Crossing Guard
Appreciation Dinner by commenting that one crossing guard had been doing so for forty-five years.
Chief Yankowski noted that LPD hosted the Ingham County Police Memorial Service and expressed his
appreciation to Commissioner Noordhoek for being in attendance. He announced that LPD recently
received a certificate of recognition for its work at the Capitol during a protest of right to work legislation.
He informed the Board of recent training conducted at the Blue Cross / Blue Shield building focused on
how to react to violent situations. The Chief also announced that he was in receipt of a law enforcement
appreciation award from the Antioch Church pastored by Rev. Ed Thomas, a former LPD officer. Lansing
Police were also a major presence at the annual safety patrol picnic.
He discussed the fiscal year 2014 budget which was passed by City Council with amendments which the
Mayor may veto. Not controversial is the move of parking enforcement officers from the Transportation
Section to the Police Department which will occur on July 1. In answer to a question from the Board, he
noted that funding for the position comes from a parking fund, not taxpayer general fund. This move is
expected to allow LPD to maintain its Traffic Unit and reintroduce a supervisor at the sergeant level.
The Chief announced that the Department will soon establish a process for the hiring of Detention
Officers as well as Police Officers. We currently have the authorization to hire three police officers. He
noted upcoming events including a Cristo Rey festival, the Memorial Day parade and the retirement of
Det. Paul Creger.
Comments included Commissioner Kolp's request for the reestablishment of the recruiting committee,
Commissioner Farhat's expression of appreciation for the Chief's many spotlights of officers,
Commissioner Macon's announcement that he was aware of the Chief answering calls for service, and
Jim DeLine's notation of appreciation to the bicycle unit's participation in the "Ride of Silence"
commemorating bikers who have been injured or killed on public streets.
Chief Yankowski noted that he hopes to get the spotlights out on a timely basis. He also distributed drafts
of the LPD Annual Report. The following motion was passed: Moved that the Board of Police
Commissioners approve the Lansing Police Department 2012 Annual Report for publication. The
Chief noted that typographic errors and errors of omission can still be corrected. They should be
forwarded to Michelle Reddish.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Tristan Eagon, informed the Board that is was good to work with Interim Chief Yankowski.
He is on the forefront of modern day policing. She reported on monthly activity including the receipt of 415
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of May 21, 2013
Page 3
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests in March (318 required review) and 472 in April (300+
required review). She gave kudos to Chief Yankowski on his presentation at the Law Enforcement
Memorial service. He was very articulate. She offered Board members hard copies of the training bulletins
sent via email if they so choose and discussed a "special edition" she would work on focused on the
phone issues. She also discussed working with attorneys from Blue Cross/ Blue Shield.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on summer programs planned with the assistance of faith-based
groups and that of the Boys and Girls Club. Many programs will occur in the public housing complexes.
She expressed her appreciation to LPD for assistance in the spring break program. Dr. Jackson Johnson
announced a new "Kids Connect" program which will occur this fall. Families will be offered clothing and
gift cards to help get them ready for the start of school. The gift cards will not be carte blanche but
monitored for appropriate use.
She also noted that shelter counts are up with 300+ families utilizing them in the Lansing area. She
commented on the HRCS budget which "survived" the process of City Council scrutiny. Dr. Jackson
Johnson discussed the "Meet the Need" initiative noting that training is being conducted to 70 agencies
and 40 churches in an effort to create a system which would eliminate the duplication of services. She
discussed BCFI (Building Child and Family Initiatives) and expressed her appreciation to Chief Yankowski
for his assistance at the Mobile Food Pantry. She announced that she was able to acquire $25,000 for the
area mission.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of April was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Kolp noted that she appreciates the canine information. Department reports for the month
of April were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson commended Board members
for their attendance at recent LPD events. She expressed her appreciation to Linda Sims Wright and new
LVCB president, Jack Schripsema, for allowing the Board to hold tonight's meeting in their conference
room.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek commended those who helped to organize
the awards ceremony. It was a "great" event with good attendance. The reception which followed was
very high quality. He is developing some new ideas for the future. Commissioners Farhat and Kowalk-
Thompson were also complimentary. Civilians were appreciated and Chief Yankowski's comments were
very good. The Chief noted that we may soon outgrow the space now being utilized for the event.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of May 21, 2013
Page 4
Complaint Committee—Commissioner Farhat announced that the next meeting will be held June 26.
Commission Investigator report — Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report. Dr. Jackson Johnson
remarked how appreciative she is of Bernard.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Farhat — expressed her appreciation to Linda Sims Wright and the LVCB for their
hospitality and welcomed Interim Chief Yankowski to Board meetings and activities.
Commissioner Macon— had no additional comments.
Commissioner Kolp—congratulated Interim Chief Yankowski on his appointment. "We are proud of you."
Commissioner Mejorado — echoed the congratulations to the Chief and reminded Board members of the
upcoming Cristo Rey festival.
Commissioner Renfrew — noted that he has seen, first hand, the need to incoming Detention personnel
and is glad to see action being taken. He commented that Chief Yankowski will "make the Department."
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no additional comments.
Commissioner Carnegie — expressed his appreciation to former Board member, Linda Sims Wright, and
to the LVCB for their hospitality. He noted that, like Superintendent Yvonne Caamal Canul, Chief
Yankowski has the talent to go anywhere he chooses and yet he is in Lansing. We are very grateful for
his service. "You understand this City." He also reminded Board members that, as the holidays and
festival time are upon us, he appreciates our tradition of welcoming families and visitors coming to town.
We "treat them great."
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — expressed her appreciation to Linda Sims Wright and the LVCB for
the meeting space and for the use of their suite at Cooley Law School Stadium tonight. With food! She
commended Chief Yankowski for the Spotlights which he produces and congratulated Dr. Joan Jackson
Johnson on the passage of her budget. She was touched at being a participant in Chief Yankowski's
promotion ceremony and considers him "the consummate professional." Soon the selection process will
start for the permanent Chief position.
OTHER BUSINESS/ DISCUSSION ITEMS
Discussion of Tee Sponsorship — PAL Golf Outing —The following motion was passed: Moved that
the Lansing Board of Police Commissioners become a PAL Golf Outing tee sponsor at the $100
level using funds donated by individual Board members. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson noted
that participation is voluntary and Board members are under no obligation to donate. Donations will be
channeled to Commissioner Farhat.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Linda Sims Wright thanked the Board for their presence at LVCB and reminded them of the upcoming Be
a Tourist in Your Own Hometown event.
ADJOURNMENT- Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:51 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, JUNE 18, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Ofc. Dan Riedel, Court Officer
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Jan Kolp Relations and Community Services
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Drew Macon Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Granddaughter(Guest of Commissioner
Carnegie)
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:31
p.m. Commissioner Kolp led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
Public Comments regarding JAG: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of May 21 were approved as presented and placed on file. ;-
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Officer Dan Riedel, Court Officer, discussed the duties, responsibilities and day-to-day activities of the two
Court Officers. Essentially, they must ensure that all writs, reports and paperwork from LPD is forwarded
to the City Attorney and the Ingham County Prosecutor's offices. They ensure that all documents for the
day's proceedings in district court are provided and they handle warrants. It is a two year assignment.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Interim Chief Mike Yankowski announced the final fiscal year 2014 budget for LPD which eliminates
furlough days allowing our services to the public to be available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. The budget also allows for the addition of a cold case detective and the movement of four
parking enforcement personnel from the Planning and Development Department to the Police
Department. We are planning to re-establish the Traffic Sergeant position which will supervise parking
enforcement.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2013
Page 2
The Chief discussed recently released FBI crime statistics noting decreases in violent crime, property
crime and breaking-and-entering's. Increases were experienced in both CSC and arson crimes, with an
analysis planned for how/when an arson is defined and counted.
In personnel matters, Chief Yankowski announced the return of Officer Michelle Burkhardt who
successfully grieved her dismissal. Recent retirements include Ofc. Joe Brown and Detective Paul
Creger, with Sgt. Eric Painter and Detective James Gill retiring in the coming weeks. Officer Rob Tucker
will be leaving our Department due to a duty disability. Our current police officer hiring process continues
with interviews starting on June 19th. With a current applicant pool of 50 people, we hope to have a hiring
roster established in mid-August. We will also soon be starting another hiring process for detention
officers and will be re-establishing a recruiting/retention task force.
He announced the conclusion of this year's MATS (racial profiling) gathering of information. Data will be
tabulated and a report issued in the coming months. The Chief also announced the upcoming PAL golf
outing with some of the proceeds being directed to the popular Shop with a Cop program. He announced
an internal strategic planning initiative reviewing and updating Department goals and objectives. Lt. Darin
Southworth is playing a key role in this project and he also recently graduated from the MSU Staff and
Command program being named Class President. Even among the best and the brightest law
enforcement professionals in the state, LPD personnel shine.
The Chief noted the upcoming commemoration of the 40th anniversary of our START team scheduled for
July 17th. He informed the Board that the Department is finalizing preparations for major events in the
City including the 4th of July celebration, Common Ground, and a new event called the Color Run where
runners on the 5K course are occasionally inundated with paint powder. 15,000 runners are expected for
this July 13 event. LPD will again compete with LFD in the annual Battle of the Blood blood drive over the
July 4 holiday.
In answer to a question from Commissioner Kolp, Chief Yankowski discussed the new City fireworks
ordinance and efforts to inform officers of the details of it. Commissioner Kolp also mentioned the
favorable comments she heard from an officer relative to prescription drug training. Commissioner
Mejorado related an incident where the 911 Communications Center would not dispatch officer reference
vandalism to parked vehicles. Chief Yankowski offered to look into it. Commissioner Macon commended
Ofc. Forbis and the Special Operations Section for their efforts on a case which landed on his desk.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Bill Kim, introduced himself as a graduate of the MSU Law School who has done prior
work with the State of Michigan. He sees his role as our "legal linebacker" who offers the support
necessary to "let the cops be cops."
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on the summer food program focused on students. It was conducted
last week and will repeat during the last two weeks of August. WalMart made great food boxes and over
5,000 were distributed. She also briefed the Board on the Mobile Food Pantry held recently. She
appreciated Chief Yankowski being there and she received some very favorable comments on Ofc.
Jeremy Wonnacott's personal interactions. Assistance received from the Valueland store was very
helpful. Upcoming events include Spartan Giveback (August 19), Kid Connect (August 19) and
Community Connect (September 20).
She reported on the Veteran's Stand Down event at St. Paul's Episcopal Church with VOA's Sharon
Dade which presented a memorial tribute to homeless vets who have passed away. Commissioner
Macon suggested that the Board may wish to participate in the next"adopt a family' program.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2013
Page 3
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of May was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Farhat gave more information regarding a neighborhood break-in which occurred while the
resident was mowing the lawn. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson led a discussion on the use of ghost
cars. Department reports for the month of May were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson spoke favorably on the
Board's outing to the Lansing Lugnuts game. She expressed her appreciation to former Board member
Linda Sims Wright for arranging use of the Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau conference room and
Lugnuts suite.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek noted that this year's award ceremony was
very successful with a good turnout. He commended Sgt. Thornburg and Lt. Horning for their hard work.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announced that the next meeting will be held on
Wednesday.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Carnegie — expressed his appreciation for the smooth transition in leadership within the
Department
Commissioner Kolp— had no additional comments.
Commissioner Renfrew — noted Lt. Southworth's presence in the Detention Center on a Sunday. Kudos
to a supervisor who makes an extra effort to experience life on the front lines. The Department is
definitely moving forward.
Commissioner Farhat — reminded Board members to direct payments for the Board's tee sponsorship at
the PAL golf outing to her. She commended the decision to promote Jim Kraus to captain of the Uniform
Division. She also expressed her appreciation to the Department for providing a funeral escort for her
cousin.
Commissioner Macon—wondered if the Board should not have bylaws.
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no additional comments.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2013
Page 4
Commissioner Mejorado— had no additional comments.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — welcomed Bill Kim to LPD and noted how well Chief Yankowski is
leading by example. She expressed her appreciation to Jim DeLine for his years of dedication to the
Board including his attendance at tonight's meeting which fell during his vacation. She also noted how
that experiencing the recent MICOPS memorial service very moving.
OTHER BUSINESS/ DISCUSSION ITEMS
Election of Officers—The following motion was made and seconded: moved that Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson's name be placed in nomination for Board Chair for the coming year and that Commissioner
Farhat's name be placed in nomination for Vice Chair. The following motion was made, but no second
was received: moved that Commissioner Macon's name be placed in nomination for the position of Board
Chair. There being no other nominations, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson was named Board Chair
and Commissioner Farhat was named Vice Chair by a majority vote.
Discussion on LPD Retirements — Commissioner Noordhoek noted that the Board does not have a
mechanism to ensure that retirees receive certificates of appreciation. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
felt it was important to ensure that the Board be represented at retirement events. She requested that
Board members RSVP to her.
Annual Report Procedure 200-2 — Chief Yankowski noted that the previous move to use the Report
Card mechanism sent to the Mayor as the Board's annual report did not work as well as expected and the
Board is now being asked to approve a procedure which returns to the previous style. A motion was
made and adopted to approve the revised Annual Report Procedure 200-2 as presented.
Discussion of Selection Process for Chief of Police —At this point in the meeting, Interim Chief Mike
Yankowski left. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson led a discussion on the coordination of selection
process with City Human Resources Department. It was the consensus of the Board that it maintain a
relevant standing in the process, that they treat every candidate in an open and neutral manner, and that
they appoint a single spokesperson for all public comment relative to the Chief of Police selection
process. A motion was made and adopted that the Board chair, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson,
serve as spokesperson for the Board for all public comment relative to the Chief of Police
selection process.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT- Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:58 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY,JUNE 18,2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowa lk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Ofc. Dan Riedel, Court Officer ., s
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of PnaN) �.
Commissioner Jan Kolp Relations and Community Services-;
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie Bernard Brantley, Commission InvestigaGa
Commissioner Drew Macon Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Granddaughter (Guest of Commissioner
Carnegie)
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:31
p.m. Commissioner Kolp led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
Public Comments regarding JAG: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
The minutes of the regular meeting of May 21 were approved as presented and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Officer Dan Riedel, Court Officer, discussed the duties, responsibilities and day-to-day activities of the two
Court Officers. Essentially, they must ensure that all writs, reports and paperwork from LPD is forwarded
to the City Attorney and the Ingham County Prosecutor's offices. They ensure that all documents for the
day's proceedings in district court are provided and they handle warrants. It is a two year assignment.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Interim Chief Mike Yankowski announced the final fiscal year 2014 budget for LPD which eliminates
furlough days allowing our services to the public to be available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. The budget also allows for the addition of a cold case detective and the movement of four
parking enforcement personnel from the Planning and Development Department to the Police
Department. We are planning to re-establish the Traffic Sergeant position which will supervise parking
enforcement.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of June 18,2013
Page 2
The Chief discussed recently released FBI crime statistics noting decreases in violent crime, property
crime and breaking-and-entering's. Increases were experienced in both CSC and arson crimes, with an
analysis planned for how/when an arson is defined and counted.
In personnel matters, Chief Yankowski announced the return of Officer Michelle Burkhardt who
successfully grieved her dismissal. Recent retirements include Ofc. Joe Brown and Detective Paul
Creger, with Sgt. Eric Painter and Detective James Gill retiring in the coming weeks. Officer Rob Tucker
will be leaving our Department due to a duty disability. Our current police officer hiring process continues
with interviews starting on June 19th. With a current applicant pool of 50 people, we hope to have a hiring
roster established in mid-August. We will also soon be starting another hiring process for detention
officers and will be re-establishing a recruiting / retention task force.
He announced the conclusion of this year's MATS (racial profiling) gathering of information. Data will be
tabulated and a report issued in the coming months. The Chief also announced the upcoming PAL golf
outing with some of the proceeds being directed to the popular Shop with a Cop program. He announced
an internal strategic planning initiative reviewing and updating Department goals and objectives. Lt. Darin
Southworth is playing a key role in this project and he also recently graduated from the MSU Staff and
Command program being named Class President. Even among the best and the brightest law
enforcement professionals in the state, LPD personnel shine.
The Chief noted the upcoming commemoration of the 40th anniversary of our START team scheduled for
July 17th. He informed the Board that the Department is finalizing preparations for major events in the
City including the 4th of July celebration, Common Ground, and a new event called the Color Run where
runners on the 5K course are occasionally inundated with paint powder. 15,000 runners are expected for
this July 13 event. LPD will again compete with LFD in the annual Battle of the Blood blood drive over the
July 4 holiday.
In answer to a question from Commissioner Kolp, Chief Yankowski discussed the new City fireworks
ordinance and efforts to inform officers of the details of it. Commissioner Kolp also mentioned the
favorable comments she heard from an officer relative to prescription drug training. Commissioner
Mejorado related an incident where the 911 Communications Center would not dispatch officer reference
vandalism to parked vehicles. Chief Yankowski offered to look into it. Commissioner Macon commended
Ofc. Forbis and the Special Operations Section for their efforts on a case which landed on his desk.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor, Bill Kim, introduced himself as a graduate of the MSU Law School who has done prior
work with the State of Michigan. He sees his role as our "legal linebacker" who offers the support
necessary to "let the cops be cops."
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on the summer food program focused on students. It was conducted
last week and will repeat during the last two weeks of August. WalMart made great food boxes and over
5,000 were distributed. She also briefed the Board on the Mobile Food Pantry held recently. She
appreciated Chief Yankowski being there and she received some very favorable comments on Ofc.
Jeremy Wonnacott's personal interactions. Assistance received from the Valueland store was very
helpful. Upcoming events include Spartan Giveback (August 19), Kid Connect (August 19) and
Community Connect(September 20).
She reported on the Veteran's Stand Down event at St. Paul's Episcopal Church with VOA's Sharon
Dade which presented a memorial tribute to homeless vets who have passed away. Commissioner
Macon suggested that the Board may wish to participate in the next"adopt a family" program.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of June 18, 2013
Page 3
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of May was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Farhat gave more information regarding a neighborhood break-in which occurred while the
resident was mowing the lawn. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson led a discussion on the use of ghost
cars. Department reports for the month of May were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson spoke favorably on the
Board's outing to the Lansing Lugnuts game. She expressed her appreciation to former Board member
Linda Sims Wright for arranging use of the Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau conference room and
Lugnuts suite.
Awards & Incentives Committee — Commissioner Noordhoek noted that this year's award ceremony was
very successful with a good turnout. He commended Sgt. Thornburg and Lt. Horning for their hard work.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Carnegie had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announced that the next meeting will be held on
Wednesday.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Carnegie — expressed his appreciation for the smooth transition in leadership within the
Department
Commissioner Kolp—had no additional comments.
Commissioner Renfrew — noted Lt. Southworth's presence in the Detention Center on a Sunday. Kudos
to a supervisor who makes an extra effort to experience life on the front lines. The Department is
definitely moving forward.
Commissioner Farhat— reminded Board members to direct payments for the Board's tee sponsorship at
the PAL golf outing to her. She commended the decision to promote Jim Kraus to captain of the Uniform
Division. She also expressed her appreciation to the Department for providing a funeral escort for her
cousin.
Commissioner Macon—wondered if the Board should not have bylaws.
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no additional comments.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of June 18,2013
Page 4
Commissioner Mejorado— had no additional comments.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson — welcomed Bill Kim to LPD and noted how well Chief Yankowski is
leading by example. She expressed her appreciation to Jim DeLine for his years of dedication to the
Board including his attendance at tonight's meeting which fell during his vacation. She also noted how
that experiencing the recent MICOPS memorial service very moving.
OTHER BUSINESS/ DISCUSSION ITEMS
Election of Officers—The following motion was made and seconded: moved that Commissioner Kowalk-
Thompson's name be placed in nomination for Board Chair for the coming year and that Commissioner
Farhat's name be placed in nomination for Vice Chair. The following motion was made, but no second
was received: moved that Commissioner Macon's name be placed in nomination for the position of Board
Chair. There being no other nominations, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson was named Board Chair
and Commissioner Farhat was named Vice Chair by a majority vote.
Discussion on LPD Retirements — Commissioner Noordhoek noted that the Board does not have a
mechanism to ensure that retirees receive certificates of appreciation. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
felt it was important to ensure that the Board be represented at retirement events. She requested that
Board members RSVP to her.
Annual Report Procedure 200-2 — Chief Yankowski noted that the previous move to use the Report
Card mechanism sent to the Mayor as the Board's annual report did not work as well as expected and the
Board is now being asked to approve a procedure which returns to the previous style. A motion was
made and adopted to approve the revised Annual Report Procedure 200-2 as presented.
Discussion of Selection Process for Chief of Police—At this point in the meeting, Interim Chief Mike
Yankowski left. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson led a discussion on the coordination of selection
process with City Human Resources Department. It was the consensus of the Board that it maintain a
relevant standing in the process, that they treat every candidate in an open and neutral manner, and that
they appoint a single spokesperson for all public comment relative to the Chief of Police selection
process. A motion was made and adopted that the Board chair, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson,
serve as spokesperson for the Board for all public comment relative to the Chief of Police
selection process.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at
6:58 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY,JULY 16,2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Relations and Community Services
Commissioner Jan Kolp Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Drew Macon (via speakerphone) Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Jim DeLine, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
MEMBERS EXCUSED: None.
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
CALL TO ORDER—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to orpi at 5:30 p.m.
Commissioner Farhat led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance. >
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items
None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA r c�
None. —;' --7
Z�
APPROVAL OF MINUTES -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson r:? CD
Commissioner Kolp offered corrections to the minutes concerning the Election of Officers. A d 5cusion was held
concerning voice votes and it was decided to always request yeas and nays, but it will be the responsibility of Board
members to bring their abstentions or recuses to the attention of the Chair. The minutes of the regular meeting of June 18
were approved as corrected and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
In lieu of an Education Presentation, Chief Yankowski gave a thorough report on Common Ground and its inclusion of The
Color Run. He discussed the change of entry point this year and the separate entry point for "VIP" ticket holders. He
reported that the concert attendance for the 14th annual Common Ground festival was over 40,000 and the participants in
The Color Run numbered 15,002. The Chief commended Capt. Kraus, Lt. Southworth, Lt. Emmons, and Mike Hamel
(LFD) for their hard work in making sure that the Common Ground festival was successful. He acknowledged that the
public's exemplary behavior had a great deal to do with the event's success. There were very few arrests or incidents and
few weapons or fireworks were uncovered at the gate. We, once again, utilized a unified command center which worked
very well. He noted that the increase in people coming downtown resulted in increased business for bars and restaurants,
many of which had lines of patrons waiting to get in. Commissioner Farhat said that she appreciated the VIP entrance and
the high visibility of police officers.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Mike Yankowski segued into an administrative report noting Lt. Darin Southworth's graduation from the Staff and
Command School as President of his class. He gave a very good speech at the graduation ceremony. The Chief
expressed his appreciation to Board members who attended the retirement receptions for Det. Jim Gill and Sgt. Eric
Painter and he announced the pending resignation of Ofc. Jason Bock who has accepted a position elsewhere.
(At this point, phone contact with Commissioner Macon was ended.)
He briefed the Board on the "ASK" initiative (Asking Saves Kids) which focuses on the importance of making sure kids
and their parents are aware of homes where firearms are present. He also introduced the Violent Crime Initiative (VCI)
which is a cooperative effort among many law enforcement agencies in the Capitol area. Led by LPD's Lt. Tom Fabus, the
1
group kicked off the initiative on June 14 and it targets areas and persons based on intelligence gathering and existing
data indicating a predominance of criminal activity. To date, the initiative is responsible for sixty-six arrests, thirty plus
tickets, and the confiscation of a multitude of weapons including tasers. The Chief expects the initiative to spread into
Eaton County and to the City of East Lansing.
Chief Yankowski discussed the new fireworks ordinance noting that an increased amount of officer time was spent this
year enforcing fireworks related offenses, which could include curfew, noise ordinance and various other violations
working in conjunction with fire marshals and fire inspectors. In answer to a question from the Board, the Chief noted that
for the Fourth of July holiday, most violations occurred in the north end of town, but on an ongoing basis it is the south end
where most noise and fireworks violations occur. He anticipates that even more restrictive fireworks ordinances will be
introduced next year.
The Chief announced the retirement of Suzy Carter from her position with the Lansing Area Safety Council. They are
welcoming new Executive Director, Allie xxx. He also expressed his appreciation to Commissioner Kolp for her serving on
the interview panel for police officer applicants. As a result of the interview process, a total of thirty-six candidates will
move on to the next level in the hiring process. There should be some vacancies filled by mid to late August. He
welcomed new Detention Officer Damon Sherrill to LPD. Ofc. Sherrill previously held a non-sworn position with Lansing
Community College's Department of Public Safety. In order to fill additional Detention Officer positions, we are extending
the current application deadline to July 31 and hosting an informational open house on July 22.
The Chief announced this year's victor in the annual "Battle for Blood" blood drive was the Police Department! That has
not happened very often. Having the blood donation on site at the North Precinct was a big boost. This year's donation
goal of 250 units was achieved and surpassed.
Chief Yankowski discussed a new grant funded initiative which will have a professional consultant conduct a patrol
efficiency study looking at staffing levels, beat designs and shift configurations. He is hoping the study is concluded and
recommendations received by September 1. He also announced that civilian employees are now back to full schedules
with no furlough hours required. On July 22, we will see the transfer of parking enforcement officers over to LPD. They will
(temporarily) report to Lt. Ballor. The approved addition of a cold case detective is still in the planning process due to the
current low staffing level.
Finally, the Chief invited Board members to attend tomorrow's special event being held at the firearms training range
commemorating the START team's 40th anniversary. Food will be served beginning at 11:00 a.m. with a presentation at
1:00 P.M.
LEGAL UPDATE
Legal Advisor Bill Kim announced the distribution of a training bulletin reference fireworks and noted that officer feedback
was very positive. He discussed FOIA training arranged by Training Sergeant Jim Thornburg and related the importance
of complying with act. Steep attorney fees can result from noncompliance. These penalties could increase under
proposed State legislation. In answer to questions from the Board, he talked about the quantity of FOIA requests and how
fees are assessed, as well as the legality of possession of fireworks.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on the recent mobile food pantry held at Plymouth Congregational Church and on the
May mobile food pantry held at Trinity Church. She discussed the present heat alert and some current issues facing
Lansing's homeless population. Dr. Jackson Johnson introduced the Board to the 4th and 1 Football Camp held in East
Lansing. All available slots were filled for this free camp which, not only includes football training, but also has foci on
hygiene and academics.
She discussed last month's "Peace Pole" held at Lansing's Summer Place apartment complex. A mix of attendees
brought the speaking of seventeen different languages to the event. Dr. Jackson Johnson also discussed the summer
food program and the upcoming repeat of Spartans -Taking It To The Streets program. Recent flooding caused problems
for many seniors who were unable to handle the needed basement cleaning. People unable to afford utility bills continues
to be a problem. Thirty percent of the staff at Capital Area Community Services are being forced to absorb a six week
furlough due to budget cuts. She noted the HUD "Meet the Need" event and also discussed the delay in filling two vacant
positions in HRCS.
2
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Correspondence for the month of June was accepted and placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Kolp requested further information on the monthly DDACTS report and Chief Yankowski clarified how the
statistics were gathered. He will have Sgt. Curtis try to make the report more clear next month. Department reports for the
month of June were accepted and placed on file.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't / Community Liaison Committee — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson commented on Board member attendance at
recent retirement events.
Awards & Incentives Committee—Commissioner Noordhoek had no report.
(At this point, Commissioner Mejorado left the meeting.)
Budget Committee—Commissioner Renfrew had nothing further to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announced that the committee continues to meet regularly and is very
pleased with the current staffing in Internal Affairs.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing further to report.
Committee Assignments—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson distributed committee assignments for the coming year.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Renfrew—had no additional comments.
Commissioner Kolp— had no additional comments.
Commissioner Noordhoek—had no additional comments.
Commissioner Farhat— had no additional comments.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson —commended the Department on its handling of the Common Ground festival. It was a
big event and went very smoothly. Interim Chief Yankowski is providing good leadership.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
None.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT-Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There being no further business to discuss, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned
3
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Relations and Community Services
Commissioner Jan Kolp Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Drew Macon (via speakerphone) Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Jim DeLine
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Detective Joel Cutler, Speaker
CALL TO ORDER — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Jim DeLine led the Pledge of
Allegiance, followed by Dr. Clyde Carnegie who led the prayer before the meal. A moment of silence was
held for former Police Chief Charles Reifsnyder. Jim DeLine stated Chief Dick Gleason is on the mend.
He is exercising and hopes to get his driver's license back.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: Commissioner Kowalk_T�orm$on_,
presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Jim DeLine for 18 years of service to the Laniiyig Qice;
Department and the Board of Police Commissioners. She thanked him for his service and dediEati omant-
stated he was a friend and part of the Lansing Police Department family. Zi 7
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: Commissioner Renf I!�Ew rN4de .a
motion to approve the July Board Meeting Minutes; supported by Maria Mejorado; approved gganA4busly,..-'
The minutes of the regular meeting of July 16, 2013, were approved and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION - Detective Joel Cutler: Detective Cutler gave an overview of his job in
Special Operations as the Special Operations Detective. Detective Cutler has been a police officer for 18
years. He holds a Bachelor's Degree from Ferris State University. His job duties are as follows: forfeiture
cases, extraditions on felony warrants, peddlers licenses and 24-hr. liquor licenses, liquor store
compliance checks, fraudulent narcotics procurement and helps with enforcing the Violent Crime
Initiative.
Chief Yankowski stated the department is fortunate to have Detective Cutler as an employee. The
position of Special Operations Detective is very important to the organization.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT-Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Chief Mike Yankowski stated July tends to be the busiest month for the department. There was
an extremely high number of calls for service.
• July was a fantastic month for the Canine Unit. The unit had several successful tracks, crimes
and drugs. Officer Jimmy Garcia and Duke along with Michelle Hood and her canine are new to
the unit. These two teams also had successful finds and arrests. There are nine canine teams
with two to three, upcoming, retirements. These teams will not be replaced.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of August 20, 2013
Page 2
The largest number of teams the department has ever had is eleven. The Lansing Police
Department is the third or fourth largest Canine Unit in the State of Michigan.
• The Violent Crime Initiative was stepped up by partnering with Ingham and Eaton Counties along
with Federal and State partners on a special need initiative. The initiative was successful with 30
arrests, 124 contacts, 30 tickets and took 5 guns. The Lansing Police Department is looking to
expand the partnership with Eaton County's crime analyst.
• The Shayla Johnson trial was held in the month of July. Three individuals received life
sentences.
• On July 1, 2013, the Lansing Police Department took over the City of Lansing Parking Division.
Lieutenant Cherie Ballor supervises three Parking Enforcement Officers. There is a possibility a
fourth position for 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. parking enforcement may be added.
• The Community Policing Officers are refocusing by getting into their areas where crimes are
occurring. Some of the officers have been assigned afternoon hours.
• Officer Brian Rasdale and Detective Steve McClean retired.
• Detention Officer Elizabeth Barnhill lost her daughter-in-law and sister and Officer Dustin Belill
lost his mother.
• There were three staffing injuries a few other officers were injured on foot pursuit. The
department has approximately 15.9 officers on the day shift and 17.9 officers on the night shift.
• The 2011-2012 Annual Report was presented to the Lansing City Council. The department had
196 authorized positions, there are now 180.
• Twenty-two people attended an Information Session for the position of Detention Officer. The
process was held for the three openings. There are 36 applicants in the POI process.
Backgrounds are being conducted. Both POI's and Detention Officers are required to participate
in the Field Training Program which is approximately 16 weeks. The Field Training Officers are
now background investigators. The recruiting efforts are continuing.
• A modified GREAT Program is being started. The program utilizes volunteers and some police
officers. Officer Rodney Anderson and Commissioner Drew Macon will be instructors.
• Effective August 26, 2013, the City Garage will be closing and operating out of South Street.
• Work is continuing by the Social Media Committee.
LEGAL UPDATE - Bill Kim, Legal Advisor: Bill Kim stated 400 Freedom of Information Act requests
were processed. He distributed a Training Bulletin to department personnel.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON -Dr.Joan Jackson Johnson:
• Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on the recent mobile food pantry held at Friendship Baptist
Church in July.
• The Kids Connect event held at the South Washington Office Complex. Over 4,000 individuals
were in attendance with 250 volunteers from Michigan State University. A special thanks to
Brittney Roberts for braiding hair, at the event, on her day off. Meijers donated $5,000 along with
a donation from the Okemos Wal-Mart.
• Lansing Police Department officers helped deliver lunches.
• Detective Elizabeth Reust, and a group of friends from St. Gerard Church, adopted a house.
They will be helping with repairs.
• Bernard Brantley was thanked for his dedication to the City of Lansing for performing a variety of
tasks.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED: Correspondence for the month of July was accepted and
placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS: None.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of August 20, 2013
Page 3
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson had nothing to report.
Awards & Incentives Committee—Commissioner Noordhoek had nothing to report.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Renfrew had nothing to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announced that she attended the Complaint Committee
meeting.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS: The Commissioners commented, individually, in regards to Jim
DeLine's departure from his position as Budget Control Supervisor and Board Secretary as follows:
• It was a wonderful opportunity to work with Jim
• Thank you for your service
• Thank you for your work
• Marvelous job
• Job well done
• You will be missed
• Congratulations on your new position
• Thank you for everything you've done
• Consummate Professional
• Dedicated employee
• Very knowledgeable and skilled
• Spends his free time volunteering
• The department's loss
• Good Luck
• Dependable
• Didn't take much time off
Patty Farhat thanked Chief Yankowski and Mayor Bernero for attending her Neighborhood Watch party
celebrating National Night Out and thanked them for coming.
OTHER BUSINESS f DISCUSSION ITEMS: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT: None.
ADJOURNMENT - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 20, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Joan Jackson Johnson, Director of Human
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Relations and Community Services
Commissioner Jan Kolp Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Drew Macon (via speakerphone) Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Jim DeLine
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Detective Joel Cutler, Speaker
CALL TO ORDER — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Jim DeLine led the Pledge of
Allegiance, followed by Dr. Clyde Carnegie who led the prayer before the meal. A moment of silence was
held for former Police Chief Charles Reifsnyder. Jim DeLine stated Chief Dick Gleason is on the mend.
He is exercising and hopes to get his driver's license back.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Jim DeLine for 18 years of service to the Lansing Police
Department and the Board of Police Commissioners. She thanked him for his service and dedication and
stated he was a friend and part of the Lansing Police Department family.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: Commissioner Renfrew made a
motion to approve the July Board Meeting Minutes; supported by Maria Mejorado; approved unanimously.
The minutes of the regular meeting of July 16, 2013, were approved and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION - Detective Joel Cutler: Detective Cutler gave an overview of his job in
Special Operations as the Special Operations Detective. Detective Cutler has been a police officer for 18
years. He holds a Bachelor's Degree from Ferris State University. His job duties are as follows: forfeiture
cases, extraditions on felony warrants, peddlers licenses and 24-hr. liquor licenses, liquor store
compliance checks, fraudulent narcotics procurement and helps with enforcing the Violent Crime
Initiative.
Chief Yankowski stated the department is fortunate to have Detective Cutler as an employee. The
position of Special Operations Detective is very important to the organization.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT-Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Chief Mike Yankowski stated July tends to be the busiest month for the department. There was
an extremely high number of calls for service.
• July was a fantastic month for the Canine Unit. The unit had several successful tracks, crimes
and drugs. Officer Jimmy Garcia and Duke along with Michelle Hood and her canine are new to
the unit. These two teams also had successful finds and arrests. There are nine canine teams
with two to three, upcoming, retirements. These teams will not be replaced.
2
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of August 20, 2013
Page 2
The largest number of teams the department has ever had is eleven. The Lansing Police
Department is the third or fourth largest Canine Unit in the State of Michigan.
• The Violent Crime Initiative was stepped up by partnering with Ingham and Eaton Counties along
with Federal and State partners on a special need initiative. The initiative was successful with 30
arrests, 124 contacts, 30 tickets and took 5 guns. The Lansing Police Department is looking to
expand the partnership with Eaton County's crime analyst.
• The Shayla Johnson trial was held in the month of July. Three individuals received life
sentences.
• On July 1, 2013, the Lansing Police Department took over the City of Lansing Parking Division.
Lieutenant Cherie Ballor supervises three Parking Enforcement Officers. There is a possibility a
fourth position for 2:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. parking enforcement may be added.
• The Community Policing Officers are refocusing by .getting into their areas where crimes are
occurring. Some of the officers have been assigned afternoon hours.
• Officer Brian Rasdale and Detective Steve McClean retired.
• Detention Officer Elizabeth Barnhill lost her daughter-in-law and sister and Officer Dustin Belill
lost his mother.
• There were three staffing injuries a few other officers were injured on foot pursuit. The
department has approximately 15.9 officers on the day shift and 17.9 officers on the night shift.
• The 2011-2012 Annual Report was presented to the Lansing City Council. The department had
196 authorized positions, there are now 180.
• Twenty-two people attended an Information Session for the position of Detention Officer. The
process was held for the three openings. There are 36 applicants in the POI process.
Backgrounds are being conducted. Both POI's and Detention Officers are required to participate
in the Field Training Program which is approximately 16 weeks. The Field Training Officers are
now background investigators. The recruiting efforts are continuing.
• A modified GREAT Program is being started. The program utilizes volunteers and some police
officers. Officer Rodney Anderson and Commissioner Drew Macon will be instructors.
• Effective August 26, 2013, the City Garage will be closing and operating out of South Street.
• Work is continuing by the Social Media Committee.
LEGAL UPDATE - Bill Kim, Legal Advisor: Bill Kim stated 400 Freedom of Information Act requests
were processed. He distributed a Training Bulletin to department personnel.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON - Dr.Joan Jackson Johnson:
• Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson reported on the recent mobile food pantry held at Friendship Baptist
Church in July.
• The Kids Connect event held at the South Washington Office Complex. Over 4,000 individuals
were in attendance with 250 volunteers from Michigan State University. A special thanks to
Brittney Roberts for braiding hair, at the event, on her day off. Meijers donated $5,000 along with
a donation from the Okemos Wal-Mart.
• Lansing Police Department officers helped deliver lunches.
• Detective Elizabeth Reust, and a group of friends from St. Gerard Church, adopted a house.
They will be helping with repairs.
• Bernard Brantley was thanked for his dedication to the City of Lansing for performing a variety of
tasks.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED: Correspondence for the month of July was accepted and
placed on file.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS: None.
L
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of August 20, 2013
Page 3
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson had nothing to report.
Awards & Incentives Committee—Commissioner Noordhoek had nothing to report.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Renfrew had nothing to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat announced that she attended the Complaint Committee
meeting.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS: The Commissioners commented, individually, in regards to Jim
DeLine's departure from his position as Budget Control Supervisor and Board Secretary as follows:
• It was a wonderful opportunity to work with Jim
• Thank you for your service
• Thank you for your work
• Marvelous job
• Job well done
• You will be missed
• Congratulations on your new position
• Thank you for everything you've done
• Consummate Professional
• Dedicated employee
• Very knowledgeable and skilled
• Spends his free time volunteering
• The department's loss
• Good Luck
• Dependable
• Didn't take much time off
Patty Farhat thanked Chief Yankowski and Mayor Bernero for attending her Neighborhood Watch party
celebrating National Night Out and thanked them for coming.
OTHER BUSINESS/ DISCUSSION ITEMS: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT: None.
ADJOURNMENT - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
S roc
LANSING POLICE DEPARTMENT f ra
120 West Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
j Phone: (517)483.4600 (TDDNoice)
C H I G Fax: (517)377-0162
Virg Bernero, Mayor Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Board of Police Commissioners Meeting
August 20, 2012
I. Call to Order—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A. Establishment of a Quorum
B. Pledge of Allegiance
II. PUBLIC COMMENT
A. On agenda items. Time limit: 3 minutes. (Info)
III. Additions to the Agenda (Info/Action)
IV. Approval of Minutes
V. Education Presentation — Detective Joel Cutler
VI. Administrative Report—Chief Yankowski (Info)
VII. Legal Update— Bill Kim (Info)
VIII. Human Relations & Community Services Liaison — Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson (Info)
IX. Fraternal Order of Police — FOP Members Present (Info)
X. Unfinished Business (Action)
XI. Correspondence Sent and Received—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson (Info)
XII. Department Reports (Info)
XIII. Board Committee Reports—(Info)
A. Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
B. Awards & Incentives Committee
C. Budget Committee
D. Complaint Committee
1. Commission Investigator Report
XIV. Commissioner's Comments—Members Present(Info)
XV. Other Business (Action)/ Discussion Items (Info) MH313 A113 9NISHVI
XVI. PUBLIC COMMENT—on any matter. Time limit: 3 minutes. (Info)
L tE Wd QZ 8S£10Z
XVIL Adjournment—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
OIA1333�
~ i
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Drew Macon Officer Keegan Stitt
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Officer Douglas Hall
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Officer Brent Listerman
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
CALL TO ORDER — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Commissioner Bill Renfrew led
the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for Chief Charles Reifsnyder, Trooper Paul
Butterfield and the four victims of the shooting near Sexton High School on September 17, 2013. FTO
Keegan Stitt introduced two new P01 hires, Brent Listerman and Douglas Hall. Each officer gave a brief
synopsis of their background. Keegan Stitt explained the officers had been training 12 hours for the past
two days and will begin patrol on September 18, 2013.
r—
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None. .; t t
SPECIAL PRESENTATION -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None. c�
r-(
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: Commissioner Noordi�oek r 'de
motion to approve the August Board Meeting Minutes; supported by Commissioner Renfrew; apgov..d;'
unanimously. The minutes of the regular meeting of August 20, 2013, were approved and Aced on file:`
EDUCATION PRESENTATION - Commissioner Drew Macon - Cyber Security Presentation:
Commissioner Macon passed out a power point presentation which addressed Cyber Security. The
presentation was very informative. After the presentation a question and answer session was held.
Commissioner Kowalk thanked Commissioner Macon for a very informative presentation.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT-Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Reminder to board members that the PBA Retirement Dinner is at the Eagles on Thursday,
September 19, 2013.
• Attended a conference on Cyber Crime, which was very informative.
• Officers Hogan and Mires, may be, attending a Cyber School, where the FBI trains, in Hoover,
Alabama regarding Cyber Crime.
• At 2:48 p.m., today, LPD responded to a shooting that occurred three blocks from Sexton High,
School because of an argument. The shooting resulted in three victims with non-life threatening
gunshot wounds. The victims' ages were 14, 15 and 17. A fourth victim showed up at the
hospital shortly after the incident. All the students attended the Lansing School District. At this
time the victims' won't say if they were involved. A Press Conference was held at 4:30 p.m.,
regarding this incident. There will be extra officers working at Sexton for the next few days.
Board (,:f Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17,2013
Page 2
• The GREAT Program is a gang resistance and education training program which targets 4`h to 6th
graders. The training will begin soon. This will help curb violence involving youth. The PACT
360 Program is designed to educate and help parents with their parenting skills. Although this
program deals more with drugs and violence. Jacob Grant was a new hire in the Detention Unit.
There are two openings that need to be filled. The recruiting efforts are continuing.
• There was an in-custody death which is being reviewed by Michigan State Police. Early signs
show the death was a suicide attempt. All the officers have returned to work. Detention is
usually staffed with three Detention Officers and a Sergeant.
• The trial involving Officer Michelle Burkehardt resulted in three out of the five counts with a direct
verdict that didn't go to the jury. The other count involving the sexual harassment was held and
the harassment was denied with no damages being awarded. Officer Burkehardt is working.
• Lieutenant David Nosotti retired and Officer Aaron Wieber left to work at the Eaton County
Prosecutor's Office.
• Donnarie Woods, who was doing Jim DeLine's job as Budget Control Supervisor, has taken a
position with the Lansing School District. Fred Kracker was hired as a temporary employee from
Account Temps is being trained.
• Officer Penni Elton started as the Neighborhood Watch Officer. She will be working more
afternoons and will attend more community meetings.
• Matt Salmon will be taking Brian Rasdale's position as the Community Policing Officer for the
downtown area.
• Thank you to Patty Farhat for her efforts regarding National Night Out and Neighborhood Watch.
• A Hotdog Diplomacy was held at Ferris Park in the Pine/Saginaw area. The attendance was
terrific.
• The department provided hotdogs for the EI-Shabazz Community event.
• The Part-One Crime Stats, that are reported by the FBI are showing a decrease trend at
approximately 7.6%. This is an unofficial number at this time.
LEGAL UPDATE - Bill Kim, Legal Advisor: Bill Kim stated he met with the two new hires and gave
them a legal brief entitled "LPD P01 Orientation - Legal Issues Session". He also reviewed several LPD
Procedures. Everyone received a copy of the legal brief.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON - Bernard Brantley for Dr. Joan
Jackson Johnson:
• The Mobile Food Pantry is Saturday, September 21, 2013, at the Pennway Church.
• Community Connect is Friday, September 20, 2013 at the South Washington Office Complex
from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
• On October 20, 2013, Dr. Jackson will give a presentation regarding Homeless Issues, in
Frankenmuth, at the 8,h Annual Homeless Summit. She is the honored guest, which is a surprise.
• On October 17, 2013, Dr. Jackson will be inducted into the Michigan Women's' Hall of Fame.
• Congratulations to Lieutenant Noel Garcia who was, recently, appointed as the President of
Cristo Rey Board.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED: Commissioner Macon made a motion to receive and
place on file correspondence for the month of August; Commissioner Renfrew seconded the motion;
carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS: Commissioner Macon made a motion to receive and place on file
department reports for the month of August; Commissioner Renfrew seconded the motion; carried
unanimously.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 3
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Gov't/ Community Liaison Committee— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson stated that the Board of Police
Commissioners initiated a meeting with the Board of Fire Commissioners, two years ago. She asked
Commissioners to give their opinion as to whether they'd like to meet with the Fire Board again. All the
Commissioners agreed it wasn't necessary. Commissioner Kowalk stated the Commissioners had
attended several retirement gatherings and going away parties.
Awards & Incentives Committee—Commissioner Noordhoek had nothing to report.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Renfrew had nothing to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat stated that she attended the Complaint Committee
Meeting.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS:
Commissioner Kolp stated she was at the North Precinct to meet and welcome the two new hires. They
did a great job and she wishes them well.
Commissioner Kowalk told Chief Yankowski that she loves the "In the LPD Spotlights" because they are
so informative and boost morale. She also told Commissioner Macon he did a great job on his Cyber
Security presentation.
Commissioner Carnegie emphasized the new officers should be trained on the hot spots of Lansing and
about what is happing in the community today. Chief Yankowski stated the officers will attend a Cultural
Diversity Class and will be brought up to speed about LPD's Community Policing philosophy. Dr.
Carnegie stated the officers that were on the scene at the shooting, possibly saved several lives. He
asked the Chief to convey his sentiments that the officers are greatly appreciated.
Commissioner Macon attended Officer Aaron Wieber's going away party. He worked with the new hires
in the academy and they are going to be very good officers.
Commissioner Farhat stated the Colonial Village is hosting "Candidate Night". The Neighborhood Watch
Advisory Board is holding a city-wide Coordinator's meeting on October 3, 2013, at the Foster Community
Center, Room 213 at 6:00 pm. Chief Yankowski will be the MC and speak at the event.
Commissioner Noordhoek said he congratulated the two new hires and also thanked Chief Yankowski for
conveying information in a timely fashion to the Commissioners.
Commissioner Renfrew stated he read the nominations for awards and wasn't sure how he would be able
to help Commissioner Noordhoek determine who should get an award with all the fantastic things many
officers have done.
Commissioner Mejorado stated she will be leaving for Texas on October 8, 2013. She also stated she
appreciated receiving information in a timely manner.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT: None.
ADJOURNMENT - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Interim Chief Mike Yankowski o
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Inves at ow
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor 9 ;a
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary 1
+n r
Commissioner Drew Macon Officer Keegan Stitt n co rt1
Commissioner Maria Mejorado Officer Douglas Hall
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Officer Brent Listerman —e, :1C CT1
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie n t, C
r ••
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTfo co
- 7C
CALL TO ORDER — Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Commissioner Bill Renfrew led
the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a moment of silence for Chief Charles Reifsnyder, Trooper Paul
Butterfield and the four victims of the shooting near Sexton High School on September 17, 2013. FTO
Keegan Stitt introduced two new P01 hires, Brent Listerman and Douglas Hall. Each officer gave a brief
synopsis of their background. Keegan Stitt explained the officers had been training 12 hours for the past
two days and will begin patrol on September 18, 2013.
PUBLIC COMMENT-Agenda Items: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA: None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION -Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: Commissioner Noordhoek made a
motion to approve the August Board Meeting Minutes; supported by Commissioner Renfrew; approved
unanimously. The minutes of the regular meeting of August 20, 2013, were approved and placed on file.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION - Commissioner Drew Macon - Cyber Security Presentation:
Commissioner Macon passed out a power point presentation which addressed Cyber Security. The
presentation was very informative. After the presentation a question and answer session was held.
Commissioner Kowalk thanked Commissioner Macon for a very informative presentation.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT-Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Reminder to board members that the PBA Retirement Dinner is at the Eagles on Thursday,
September 19, 2013.
• Attended a conference on Cyber Crime, which was very informative.
• Officers Hogan and Mires, may be, attending a Cyber School, where the FBI trains, in Hoover,
Alabama regarding Cyber Crime.
• At 2:48 p.m., today, LPD responded to a shooting that occurred three blocks from Sexton High,
School because of an argument. The shooting resulted in three victims with non-life threatening
gunshot wounds. The victims' ages were 14, 15 and 17. A fourth victim showed up at the
hospital shortly after the incident. All the students attended the Lansing School District. At this
time the victims' won't say if they were involved. A Press Conference was held at 4:30 p.m.,
regarding this incident. There will be extra officers working at Sexton for the next few days.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 2
• The GREAT Program is a gang resistance and education training program which targets 4th to 6th
graders. The training will begin soon. This will help curb violence involving youth. The PACT
360 Program is designed to educate and help parents with their parenting skills. Although this
program deals more with drugs and violence. Jacob Grant was a new hire in the Detention Unit.
There are two openings that need to be filled. The recruiting efforts are continuing.
• There was an in-custody death which is being reviewed by Michigan State Police. Early signs
show the death was a suicide attempt. All the officers have returned to work. Detention is
usually staffed with three Detention Officers and a Sergeant.
• The trial involving Officer Michelle Burkehardt resulted in three out of the five counts with a direct
verdict that didn't go to the jury. The other count involving the sexual harassment was held and
the harassment was denied with no damages being awarded. Officer Burkehardt is working.
• Lieutenant David Nosotti retired and Officer Aaron Wieber left to work at the Eaton County
Prosecutor's Office.
• Donnarie Woods, who was doing Jim DeLine's job as Budget Control Supervisor, has taken a
position with the Lansing School District. Fred Kracker was hired as a temporary employee from
Account Temps is being trained.
• Officer Penni Elton started as the Neighborhood Watch Officer. She will be working more
afternoons and will attend more community meetings.
• Matt Salmon will be taking Brian Rasdale's position as the Community Policing Officer for the
downtown area.
• Thank you to Patty Farhat for her efforts regarding National Night Out and Neighborhood Watch.
• A Hotdog Diplomacy was held at Ferris Park in the Pine/Saginaw area. The attendance was
terrific.
• The department provided hotdogs for the EI-Shabazz Community event.
• The Part-One Crime Stats, that are reported by the FBI are showing a decrease trend at
approximately 7.6%. This is an unofficial number at this time.
LEGAL UPDATE - Bill Kim, Legal Advisor: Bill Kim stated he met with the two new hires and gave
them a legal brief entitled "LPD PO1 Orientation - Legal Issues Session". He also reviewed several LPD
Procedures. Everyone received a copy of the legal brief.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON - Bernard Brantley for Dr. Joan
Jackson Johnson:
• The Mobile Food Pantry is Saturday, September 21, 2013, at the Pennway Church.
• Community Connect is Friday. September 20, 2013 at the South Washington Office Complex
from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
• On October 20, 2013, Dr. Jackson will give a presentation regarding Homeless Issues, in
Frankenmuth, at the 81h Annual Homeless Summit. She is the honored guest, which is a surprise.
• On October 17, 2013, Dr. Jackson will be inducted into the Michigan Women's' Hall of Fame.
• Congratulations to Lieutenant Noel Garcia who was, recently, appointed as the President of
Cristo Rey Board.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED: Commissioner Macon made a motion to receive and
place on file correspondence for the month of August; Commissioner Renfrew seconded the motion;
carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS: Commissioner Macon made a motion to receive and place on file
department reports for the month of August; Commissioner Renfrew seconded the motion; carried
unanimously.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 3
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Gov't/ Community Liaison Committee— Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson stated that the Board of Police
Commissioners initiated a meeting with the Board of Fire Commissioners, two years ago. She asked
Commissioners to give their opinion as to whether they'd like to meet with the Fire Board again. All the
Commissioners agreed it wasn't necessary. Commissioner Kowalk stated the Commissioners had
attended several retirement gatherings and going away parties.
Awards & Incentives Committee—Commissioner Noordhoek had nothing to report.
Budget Committee—Commissioner Renfrew had nothing to report.
Complaint Committee — Commissioner Farhat stated that she attended the Complaint Committee
Meeting.
Commission Investigator report— Bernard Brantley had nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS:
Commissioner Kolp stated she was at the North Precinct to meet and welcome the two new hires. They
did a great job and she wishes them well.
Commissioner Kowalk told Chief Yankowski that she loves the "In the LPD Spotlights" because they are
so informative and boost morale. She also told Commissioner Macon he did a great job on his Cyber
Security presentation.
Commissioner Carnegie emphasized the new officers should be trained on the hot spots of Lansing and
about what is happing in the community today. Chief Yankowski stated the officers will attend a Cultural
Diversity Class and will be brought up to speed about LPD's Community Policing philosophy. Dr.
Carnegie stated the officers that were on the scene at the shooting, possibly saved several lives. He
asked the Chief to convey his sentiments that the officers are greatly appreciated.
Commissioner Macon attended Officer Aaron Wieber's going away party. He worked with the new hires
in the academy and they are going to be very good officers.
Commissioner Farhat stated the Colonial Village is hosting "Candidate Night". The Neighborhood Watch
Advisory Board is holding a city-wide Coordinator's meeting on October 3, 2013, at the Foster Community
Center, Room 213 at 6:00 pm. Chief Yankowski will be the MC and speak at the event.
Commissioner Noordhoek said he congratulated the two new hires and also thanked Chief Yankowski for
conveying information in a timely fashion to the Commissioners.
Commissioner Renfrew stated he read the nominations for awards and wasn't sure how he would be able
to help Commissioner Noordhoek determine who should get an award with all the fantastic things many
officers have done.
Commissioner Mejorado stated she will be leaving for Texas on October 8, 2013. She also stated she
appreciated receiving information in a timely manner.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS: None.
PUBLIC COMMENT: None.
ADJOURNMENT - Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
s Lansing Police Department
Board of Police Commissioners =r,
120 West Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933 �'` "
Phone: (517) 483-4600 (TDDNoice)
Fax: (517) 377-0162
Virg Bernero,Mayor Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15th, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Mike Yankowski, Chief of Police
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson, Human Relations
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Commissioner Drew Macon Regina Wilson, Human Resources
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the
meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioner Renfrew led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk asked for a
moment of silence. r_
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS y
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA c✓ N
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
n'
SPECIAL PRESENTATION r-- c,..,
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
r� to
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: The Board reviewed the September 17, 2013, Minutes. A few minor grammatical
errors were suggested for editing which Michelle Reddish noted. Commissioner Renfrew made a motion to approve
the September Board Meeting Minutes; supported by Commissioner Kolp; approved unanimously. The minutes
of the regular meeting of September 17, 2013, were approved and placed on file with the Lansing City Clerk.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Regina Wilson, Human Resources, City of Lansing: Regina Wilson presented the board with a copy of a Power Point
presentation regarding the Lansing Police Department's (LPD) Hiring and Recruiting (See attached). Regina explained
the process from start to end pertaining to the hiring process for Police Officer I (POl's). Questions were answered
throughout the presentation. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson thanked Mrs. Wilson for a very informative presentation.
2
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of October 15th, 2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Two K-9's retired in September, Officer Beth Larabee/Sarge and Officer Frank Mobley/Shadow. There are
seven teams with the potential of an additional four dogs retiring within the next year.
• There are six openings in the Detective Bureau, which includes the Cold Case Detective. Currently there are
183 employees and with four new PO'1s.
• Six new officers have completed GREAT Training.
• Sergeant Sue Baylis will be trained on issues pertaining to Homeland Security. A kit for emergency aid was
developed and will be carried in the field by all the officers. LPD will be working closely with the Lansing Fire
Department on Homeland Security issues.
• Attended three community meetings that dealt with crime issues-Westside Neighborhood Meeting where the
Sexton shootings were discussed, along with Averill and Moores River Drive Neighborhood Watch meetings. All
three meetings were well attended.
• Attended a Truancy Assembly at STEM Academy on October 4, 2013.
• Attended the Neighborhood Watch Coordinator's meeting at the Foster Community Center where seventy (70)
guests were in attendance. Patty Farhat thanked Chief Yankowski for speaking at the event.
• The Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) work continues. MSU provided a detective and an agent from MDC who work
on VCI issues. Several targets have been picked up.
• Applied for a Byrne Grant to attend the DDACTS Program. A speed trailer and signage was obtained. Overtime
dollars weren't granted.
• Officers Naimy and Berry caught two individuals involved in B&E's.
• Detective Mark Lewendosky did great job at the Homicide Trial involving the Sav-On Party Store.
• Officer Damian Manson and Officer Brittney Roberts paid for an individual to stay in a hotel who was down on his
luck. Both officers are thanked and are great examples of caring individuals.
• Attended the PBA Retirement Dinner.
• Upcoming Events
➢ 10/28/13 Trick-or-Treat on the Square
➢ 11/01/13 Dayglo Paint Dance Party
➢ 11/22/13 Silverbells
LEGAL ADVISOR UPDATE
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor. Bill Kim briefed the four new police officers on procedures and important topics that they'll deal
with daily. He reports directly to the City Attorney and is now assigned to one day a week in the 54-A District Court
prosecuting cases for the City. Bill stated he is working on improving communication with LPD and the City Attorney's
office. He has researched and produced a Training Bulletin regarding dog related issues, he is making sure the policy
is in line with Miranda Rights and he is making sure the policy for Use of Force is in line pertaining to tasers.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson:
• The past few weeks have been challenging in regards to assisting people who rely on the system for help with
utility payments.
• A partnership was developed with the Department of Human Services, the City Attorney and the Lansing
Housing Commission in regards to the Eviction Diversion Program. A PILOT Pre-Eviction Division Program will
be started which will include mandatory participation in the form of teaching programs.
• The Mobile Food Pantry will be held at Trinity Church on Holmes Road.
• The Community Connect event was held last week.
• Special thanks to Bernard Brantley for everything he does to help.
• Meet the Need Program is being started through the churches.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
3
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of October 15`h, 2013
Page 3
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Commissioner Kolp made a motion to receive and place on file correspondence for the month of September;
Commissioner Carnegie supported the motion; carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Kolp made a motion to receive and place on file department reports for the month of September;
Commissioner Farhat supported the motion; carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There have been several retirement plaques presented from the board to employees at their retirement parties.
Awards& Incentives Committee
Commissioner Noordhoek
Nothing to Report.
Budget Committee
Commissioner Renfrew
Nothing to Report. Dr. Carnegie stated the Budget Committee will be entering into a new system. He stated it would be
good to know, ahead of time, on how the budget process will work and how the meetings will proceed.
Complaint Committee
Commissioner Farhat
There was not a meeting in September because two parties were ill. The meeting is rescheduled to November 7, 2013.
Commission Investigator Report
Bernard Brantley
Nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Kowalk thanked Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson for the work she did on the Kids Connect event.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson verified that Commissioners had received and reviewed a copy of Mayor Bernero's
letter to appoint Mike Yankowski to Chief of Police, effective October 21, 2013. A discussion ensued. Commissioner
Kowalk-Thompson noted the process of the appointment (below) and read the portion of the Lansing City Charter as it
pertains to the Board's role in the appointment; Legal Counsel, Bill Kim obliged the Board in confirming the language in
the charter.
• The Mayor forwards a letter to the Board of Police Commissioners announcing his decision to make the
appointment for Chief of Police.
• The Lansing City Charter requires the Board of Police Commissioners be consulted on the appointment of the
Chief of Police.
• The Board discusses the appointment and votes to approve or deny.
• A letter is drafted and forwarded to the Mayor regarding the Boards' decision.
A motion was made by Commissioner Noordhoek to approve the Mayor's letter appointing Interim Chief Mike
Yankowski to Chief of Police; supported by Commissioner Renfrew and Carnegie. The Commissioners present
(5)voted unanimously to support the Mayor in his appointment of Interim Chief Michael Yankowski as Chief of
Police.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
4
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of October 15`h, 2013
Page 4
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss, meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
5
Lansing Police Department
Board of Police Commissioners
120 West Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
?f Phone: (517) 483-4600 (TDDNoice)
rt t Fax: (517) 377-0162
Virg Bemero,Mayor Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15th, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Mike Yankowski, Chief of Police
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Infestigot r
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson, Human Re
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie s..f '
C-7` c-� r)
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBL1d/G4ES_T-S:
Commissioner Drew Macon Regina Wilson, Human Resources^ FI-1
Commissioner Maria Mejorado f". n� t::l
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the
meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioner Renfrew led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk asked for a
moment of silence.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: The Board reviewed the September 17, 2013, Minutes. A few minor grammatical
errors were suggested for editing which Michelle Reddish noted. Commissioner Renfrew made a motion to approve
the September Board Meeting Minutes; supported by Commissioner Kolp; approved unanimously. The minutes
of the regular meeting of September 17, 2013, were approved and placed on file with the Lansing City Clerk.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Regina Wilson, Human Resources, City of Lansing: Regina Wilson presented the board with a copy of a Power Point
presentation regarding the Lansing Police Department's (LPD) Hiring and Recruiting (See attached). Regina explained
the process from start to end pertaining to the hiring process for Police Officer I (POl's). Questions were answered
throughout the presentation. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson thanked Mrs. Wilson for a very informative presentation.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Two K-9's retired in September, Officer Beth Larabee/Sarge and Officer Frank Mobley/Shadow. There are
seven teams with the potential of an additional four dogs retiring within the next year.
• There are six openings in the Detective Bureau, which includes the Cold Case Detective. Currently there are
183 employees and with four new PO'ls.
• Six new officers have completed GREAT Training.
• Sergeant Sue Baylis will be trained on issues pertaining to Homeland Security. A kit for emergency aid was
developed and will be carried in the field by all the officers. LPD will be working closely with the Lansing Fire
Department on Homeland Security issues.
• Attended three community meetings that dealt with crime issues-Westside Neighborhood Meeting where the
Sexton shootings were discussed, along with Averill and Moores River Drive Neighborhood Watch meetings. All
three meetings were well attended.
• Attended a Truancy Assembly at STEM Academy on October 4, 2013.
• Attended the Neighborhood Watch Coordinator's meeting at the Foster Community Center where seventy(70)
guests were in attendance. Patty Farhat thanked Chief Yankowski for speaking at the event.
• The Violent Crime Initiative (VCI)work continues. MSU provided a detective and an agent from MDC who work
on VCI issues. Several targets have been picked up.
• Applied for a Byrne Grant to attend the DDACTS Program. A speed trailer and signage was obtained. Overtime
dollars weren't granted.
• Officers Naimy and Berry caught two individuals involved in B&E's.
• Detective Mark Lewendosky did great job at the Homicide Trial involving the Sav-On Party Store.
• Officer Damian Manson and Officer Brittney Roberts paid for an individual to stay in a hotel who was down on his
luck. Both officers are thanked and are great examples of caring individuals.
• Attended the PBA Retirement Dinner.
• Upcoming Events
➢ 10/28/13 Trick-or-Treat on the Square
➢ 11/01/13 Dayglo Paint Dance Party
➢ 11/22/13 Silverbells
LEGAL ADVISOR UPDATE
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor. Bill Kim briefed the four new police officers on procedures and important topics that they'll deal
with daily. He reports directly to the City Attorney and is now assigned to one day a week in the 54-A District Court
prosecuting cases for the City. Bill stated he is working on improving communication with LPD and the City Attorney's
office. He has researched and produced a Training Bulletin regarding dog related issues, he is making sure the policy
is in line with Miranda Rights and he is making sure the policy for Use of Force is in line pertaining to tasers.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson:
• The past few weeks have been challenging in regards to assisting people who rely on the system for help with
utility payments.
• A partnership was developed with the Department of Human Services, the City Attorney and the Lansing
Housing Commission in regards to the Eviction Diversion Program. A PILOT Pre-Eviction Division Program will
be started which will include mandatory participation in the form of teaching programs.
• The Mobile Food Pantry will be held at Trinity Church on Holmes Road.
• The Community Connect event was held last week.
• Special thanks to Bernard Brantley for everything he does to help.
• Meet the Need Program is being started through the churches.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 3
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Commissioner Kolp made a motion to receive and place on file correspondence for the month of September;
Commissioner Carnegie supported the motion; carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Kolp made a motion to receive and place on file department reports for the month of September;
Commissioner Farhat supported the motion; carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There have been several retirement plaques presented from the board to employees at their retirement parties.
Awards& Incentives Committee
Commissioner Noordhoek
Nothing to Report.
Budget Committee
Commissioner Renfrew
Nothing to Report. Dr. Carnegie stated the Budget Committee will be entering into a new system. He stated it would be
good to know, ahead of time, on how the budget process will work and how the meetings will proceed.
Complaint Committee
Commissioner Farhat
There was not a meeting in September because two parties were ill. The meeting is rescheduled to November 7, 2013.
Commission Investigator Report
Bernard Brantley
Nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Kowalk thanked Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson for the work she did on the Kids Connect event.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson verified that Commissioners had received and reviewed a copy of Mayor Bernero's
letter to appoint Mike Yankowski to Chief of Police, effective October 21, 2013. A discussion ensued. Commissioner
Kowalk-Thompson noted the process of the appointment(below) and read the portion of the Lansing City Charter as it
pertains to the Board's role in the appointment; Legal Counsel, Bill Kim obliged the Board in confirming the language in
the charter.
• The Mayor forwards a letter to the Board of Police Commissioners announcing his decision to make the
appointment for Chief of Police.
• The Lansing City Charter requires the Board of Police Commissioners be consulted on the appointment of the
Chief of Police.
• The Board discusses the appointment and votes to approve or deny.
• A letter is drafted and forwarded to the Mayor regarding the Boards' decision.
A motion was made by Commissioner Noordhoek to approve the Mayor's letter appointing Interim Chief Mike
Yankowski to Chief of Police; supported by Commissioner Renfrew and Carnegie. The Commissioners present
(5)voted unanimously to support the Mayor in his appointment of Interim Chief Michael Yankowski as Chief of
Police.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17,2013
Page 4
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss, meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
s / / Lansing Police Department
Board of Police Commissioners
120 West Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
1T f j Phone: (517) 483-4600 (TDDNoice)
c H i G P Fax: (517) 377-0162
Virg Bemero,Mayor Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Mike Yankowski, Chief of Police
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary �--
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson, Human-Rel ns
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIe1Gl=S_
Commissioner Drew Macon Regina Wilson, Human Resources Q-
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
r-• PO t�
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowa lk-Thompson called the
meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioner Renfrew led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk asked for a
moment of silence.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: The Board reviewed the September 17, 2013, Minutes. A few minor grammatical
errors were suggested for editing which Michelle Reddish noted. Commissioner Renfrew made a motion to approve
the September Board Meeting Minutes; supported by Commissioner Kolp; approved unanimously. The minutes
of the regular meeting of September 17, 2013, were approved and placed on file with the Lansing City Clerk.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Regina Wilson, Human Resources, City of Lansing: Regina Wilson presented the board with a copy of a Power Point
presentation regarding the Lansing Police Department's (LPD) Hiring and Recruiting (See attached). Regina explained
the process from start to end pertaining to the hiring process for Police Officer I (POl's). Questions were answered
throughout the presentation. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson thanked Mrs. Wilson for a very informative presentation.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Two K-9's retired in September, Officer Beth Larabee/Sarge and Officer Frank Mobley/Shadow. There are
seven teams with the potential of an additional four dogs retiring within the next year.
• There are six openings in the Detective Bureau, which includes the Cold Case Detective. Currently there are
183 employees and with four new PO'1s.
• Six new officers have completed GREAT Training.
• Sergeant Sue Baylis will be trained on issues pertaining to Homeland Security. A kit for emergency aid was
developed and will be carried in the field by all the officers. LPD will be working closely with the Lansing Fire
Department on Homeland Security issues.
• Attended three community meetings that dealt with crime issues-Westside Neighborhood Meeting where the
Sexton shootings were discussed, along with Averill and Moores River Drive Neighborhood Watch meetings. All
three meetings were well attended.
• Attended a Truancy Assembly at STEM Academy on October 4, 2013.
• Attended the Neighborhood Watch Coordinator's meeting at the Foster Community Center where seventy (70)
guests were in attendance. Patty Farhat thanked Chief Yankowski for speaking at the event.
• The Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) work continues. MSU provided a detective and an agent from MDC who work
on VCI issues. Several targets have been picked up.
• Applied for a Byrne Grant to attend the DDACTS Program. A speed trailer and signage was obtained. Overtime
dollars weren't granted.
• Officers Naimy and Berry caught two individuals involved in B&E's.
• Detective Mark Lewendosky did great job at the Homicide Trial involving the Sav-On Party Store.
• Officer Damian Manson and Officer Brittney Roberts paid for an individual to stay in a hotel who was down on his
luck. Both officers are thanked and are great examples of caring individuals.
• Attended the PBA Retirement Dinner.
• Upcoming Events
➢ 10/28/13 Trick-or-Treat on the Square
➢ 11/01/13 Dayglo Paint Dance Party
➢ 11/22/13 Silverbells
LEGAL ADVISOR UPDATE
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor. Bill Kim briefed the four new police officers on procedures and important topics that they'll deal
with daily. He reports directly to the City Attorney and is now assigned to one day a week in the 54-A District Court
prosecuting cases for the City. Bill stated he is working on improving communication with LPD and the City Attorney's
office. He has researched and produced a Training Bulletin regarding dog related issues, he is making sure the policy
is in line with Miranda Rights and he is making sure the policy for Use of Force is in line pertaining to tasers.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson:
• The past few weeks have been challenging in regards to assisting people who rely on the system for help with
utility payments.
• A partnership was developed with the Department of Human Services, the City Attorney and the Lansing
Housing Commission in regards to the Eviction Diversion Program. A PILOT Pre-Eviction Division Program will
be started which will include mandatory participation in the form of teaching programs.
• The Mobile Food Pantry will be held at Trinity Church on Holmes Road.
• The Community Connect event was held last week.
• Special thanks to Bernard Brantley for everything he does to help.
• Meet the Need Program is being started through the churches.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: No representative present.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 3
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Commissioner Kolp made a motion to receive and place on file correspondence for the month of September;
Commissioner Carnegie supported the motion; carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Kolp made a motion to receive and place on file department reports for the month of September;
Commissioner Farhat supported the motion; carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
There have been several retirement plaques presented from the board to employees at their retirement parties.
Awards & Incentives Committee
Commissioner Noordhoek
Nothing to Report.
Budget Committee
Commissioner Renfrew
Nothing to Report. Dr. Carnegie stated the Budget Committee will be entering into a new system. He stated it would be
good to know, ahead of time, on how the budget process will work and how the meetings will proceed.
Complaint Committee
Commissioner Farhat
There was not a meeting in September because two parties were ill. The meeting is rescheduled to November 7, 2013.
Commission Investigator Report
Bernard Brantley
Nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Kowalk thanked Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson for the work she did on the Kids Connect event.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson verified that Commissioners had received and reviewed a copy of Mayor Bernero's
letter to appoint Mike Yankowski to Chief of Police, effective October 21, 2013. A discussion ensued. Commissioner
Kowalk-Thompson noted the process of the appointment(below) and read the portion of the Lansing City Charter as it
pertains to the Board's role in the appointment; Legal Counsel, Bill Kim obliged the Board in confirming the language in
the charter.
• The Mayor forwards a letter to the Board of Police Commissioners announcing his decision to make the
appointment for Chief of Police.
• The Lansing City Charter requires the Board of Police Commissioners be consulted on the appointment of the
Chief of Police.
• The Board discusses the appointment and votes to approve or deny.
• A letter is drafted and forwarded to the Mayor regarding the Boards' decision.
A motion was made by Commissioner Noordhoek to approve the Mayor's letter appointing Interim Chief Mike
Yankowski to Chief of Police; supported by Commissioner Renfrew and Carnegie. The Commissioners present
Boa,d of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of September 17, 2013
Page 4
(5)voted unanimously to support the Mayor in his appointment of Interim Chief Michael Yankowski as Chief of
Police.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss, meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
N S j �C
LANSING POLICE DEPARTMENT
120 West Michigan Avenue s
Lansing, MI 48933
Phone: (517)483.4600 (TDDNoice) L'
r c H I G �,�' Fax: (517)377.0162
Virg Bernero, Mayor Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING AGENDA FOR NOVEMBER 19, 2013
5:30 p.m.
I. Call to Order—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A. Establishment of a Quorum
B. Pledge of Allegiance
II. PUBLIC COMMENT
A. On agenda items. Time limit: 3 minutes. (Info)
III. Additions to the Agenda (Info/Action)
IV. Approval of Minutes
V. Education Presentation—Topic: Sgt. Sue Baylis, Homeland Security
VI. Administrative Report—Chief Yankowski (Info)
VII. Legal Update— Bill Kim (Info)
Vill. Human Relations & Community Services Liaison — Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson (Info)
IX. Fraternal Order of Police— FOP Members Present (Info)
X. Unfinished Business (Action)
XI. Correspondence Sent and Received —Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson (Info)
XII. Department Reports (Info)
XIII. Board Committee Reports—(Info)
A. Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
B. Awards & Incentives Committee
Y
C. Budget Committee `a
D. Complaint Committee U)
1. Commission Investigator Report = 1-Tl
N
XIV. Commissioner's Comments—Members Present (Info)
XV. Other Business (Action) / Discussion Items (Info) ''` rn
r ..
XVI. PUBLIC COMMENT—on any matter. Time limit: 3 minutes. (Info) r; CD
XVII. Adjournment—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
Lansing Police Department
Board of Police Commissioners
120 West Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933 �
yf ' Phone: (517) 483-4600 (TDD/Voice)
c Er t �' F
Virg Bernero,Mayor Fax: (517) 377-0162
Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Mike Yankowski, Chief of Police
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson, Human Relations
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
MEMBERS EXCUSED: MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
Commissioner Drew Macon Sergeant Sue Baylis, LPD
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the
meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioner Renfrew led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk asked for a
moment of silence for Canine Lugar. Chief Yankowski stated the Lansing Police Department trained Canine Lugar. He
had a very successful career with his partner, Deputy Harris. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson sent a letter with the
Board's condolences.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None,
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None. SPECIAL PRESENTATION
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: The Board reviewed the October 15, 2013, Minutes. Commissioner Noordhoek
made a motion to approve the October Board Minutes; supported by Commissioner Renfrew; approved
unanimously. The minutes of the regular meeting of October 15, 2013, were approved and placed on file with the
Lansing City Clerk.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Sergeant Sue Baylis, Lansing Police Department: Sergeant Baylis presented the board with an information regarding
the Lansing Police Department's (LPD) training in regards to Homeland Security.(See attached). Questions were
answered at the end of the presentation. Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson thanked Sergeant Baylis for a very
informative presentation.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of November 19,2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Mike Yankowski:
• City Garage consolidated and it is located on South Street.
• Jeff Kludy resigned and the City is trying to locate a contract worker to help do Walter Doherty's job. Walter has
assumed many of Jeff's responsibilities.
• Detective Chris Devlin retired.
• The police officer hiring process is moving forward. An informational recruiting session is being held on
November 20'h, 2013 at Cristo Rey.
• Next Year the Cadet program may be implemented.
• LPD hopes to sponsor two individuals in the Mid-MI Police Academy.
• The website and the phone list is being updated.
• The Citizen Observe has been transitioned to crime mapping.
• Two self-defense workshops sponsored by LPD were held.
• The Boys and Girls Club fund-raising dinner took place.
• The police auction which was held city-wide was very successful.
• LPD had a presence at Trick-or-Treat on the Square.
• The GREAT Program will be beginning after the first of the year.
• Silver Bells in the City is Friday, November 22"d, 2013.
• The Social Media Committee is set up.
• Olds Newsboys paper sale is December 5, 2013.
• No Senior Without Christmas is December 11, 2013.
• Toys for Tots will be putting up a collection box at headquarters and the precinct.
LEGAL ADVISOR UPDATE
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor. Bill Kim agreed to do the educational presentation next month and asked board members to
submit their ideas of what they'd like him to speak about. A training bulletin was handed out. (See attached). Bill gave
an update on a case involving Use of Force, the booking process and responsive resistance.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson:
• The Mobile Food Pantry was held at First Methodist Church with approximately 4,000 individuals in attendance.
• A new program was started pertaining to public housing. $3,200 was spent which saved 100 people from being
homeless.
• Meet the Need is still being worked on. Hopefully it will be up and running by Christmas. 400 turkeys were given
away.
• Teen Challenge has been helping with some seniors, raking leaves etc.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Bill Renfrew made a motion to receive and place on file correspondence for the month of October;
Commissioner Kolp supported the motion; carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Kolp made a motion to receive and place on file department reports for the month of October;
Commissioner Renfrew supported the motion; carried unanimously.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of November 19, 2013
Page 3
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
Lieutenant Cherie Ballor needs board members for three interview panels as follows; 1/6/13 to 1/17/13 P01s, 2/24/13
to 2/26/13 for Sergeants and 3/3/13 to 3/5/13 for Detectives. She asked any interested board members to contact her
and let her know of their availability. Sandra stated that she would be probably be able to help with the Sergeant's
panel.
Awards& Incentives Committee
Commissioner Noordhoek
Nothing to Report.
Budget Committee
Commissioner Renfrew
Nothing to Report.
Complaint Committee
Commissioner Farhat
The Committee met.
Commission Investigator Report
Bernard Brantley
Nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson congratulated Captain Green on finishing his Ph.D. She also stated Bill Kim is a
wonderful presence to the department and at the Board meetings.
Commissioner Kolp stated she is very proud of everyone here at the Lansing Police Department. She stated that
Commissioner Macon received the Investigator of the Year Award and received a promotion. Commissioner Kolp
stated she may be able to help with the P01 panel.
Commissioner Farhat congratulated Commissioner Macon regarding his award and promotion. He is now back-up
coordinator for the East Village Neighborhood Association.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
None.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss, meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.
L-P
s I �c Lansing Police Department
Board of Police Commissioners
120 West Michigan Avenue
Lansing, MI 48933
2�f c G P- Phone: (517) 483-4600 (TDDNoice)
rf t Fax: (517) 377-0162
Virg Bemero,Mayor Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17T", 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Mike Yankowski, Chief of Police
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson, Human Relations
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
Commissioner Drew Macon
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
MEMBERS EXCUSED:
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
CALL TO ORDER
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson called the
meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioner Renfrew led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk asked for a
moment of silence for Kathy Winslow.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None. a
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
�l
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: The Board reviewed the November Minutes. Commissioner No6fidh* mop a
motion to approve the November Board Minutes; supported by Commissioner Renfrew; approved f-1-1
unanimously. The minutes of the regular meeting of November 19, 2013, were approved and placed-on fiLEgNith ttie
Lansing City Clerk. �' =b ('i
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor gave a presentation on Why LPD officers get sued and how the City sets out to�dpfelW them.
The presentation was very informative.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of December 17, 2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Silverbells was a success with just under 100,000 citizens in attendance
• Two Police Officer Informational sessions were held
• Three new hires started and will attend the post-academy in January
• POI process is continuing
• Olds Newsboys
• Shop With a Cop
• Helping Heroes at Target
• No Senior Left Without Christmas
• TRIAD Christmas Baskets
• Promotional/Retirement Ceremony
• Kathy Winslow passed away
• Rich Ballor's mother passed away
• VC] had an outstanding month
• Interviews were held for the Budget Supervisor position
• January and February promotional exams will be held for Sergeant, Lieutenant and Captain
• A double-homicide took place. Officers and fire department personnel were debriefed.
LEGAL ADVISOR UPDATE
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor. None.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson.-
The Mobile Food Pantry was held at Breadhouse Church
• This Saturday about 50 families will get to shop for Christmas
• Dr. Johnson thanked Bernard Brantley for his work
• Christmas will be at Advent House
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Bob Noordhoek made a motion to receive and place on file correspondence for the month of November;
Commissioner Carnegie supported the motion; carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Noordhoek made a motion to receive and place on file department reports for the month of
November; Commissioner Renfrew supported the motion; carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
Nothing to Report.
Awards & Incentives Committee
Commissioner Noordhoek
Nothing to Report.
3oard of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of December 17, 2013
Page 3
Budget Committee
Commissioner Renfrew
Nothing to Report.
Complaint Committee
Commissioner Farhat
The Committee will meet in January.
Commission Investigator Report
Bernard Brantley
Nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson thanked Chief Yankowski for his professionalism and the time he devotes to his job.
Commissioner Kolp stated the New Hire reception is scheduled for February 19 at the University Club. Elizabeth Reust
did an outstanding job at the department. She wasn't able to attend the Promotion and Retirement celebration. She
appreciates Chief Yankowski for his outstanding leadership.
Commissioner Farhat wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
Dr. Clyde Carnegie sated Lansing was at its best during Silverbells. He thanked Jan Kolp for planning the New Hire
reception and is also thankful for Chief Yankowski, Sandra Kowa lk-Thompson, and Bill Kim.
Commissioner Noordhoek is thankful for Chief Yankowski and the new and exciting things that are happening to the
department.
Commissioner Macon wished everyone a Merry Christmas. He stated he was at Shop with a Cop and will be teaching
the GREAT Program.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
None.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss, meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
SI �C
LANSING POLICE DEPARTMENT
120 West Michigan Avenue s
Lansing, MI 48933
Phone: (517)483-4600 (TDDNoice) • •
j Fax: (517)377-0162
cHIG �'
Virg Bernero, Mayor Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING AGENDA FOR DECEMBER 17, 2013
5:30 p.m.
I. Call to Order—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
A. Establishment of a Quorum
B. Pledge of Allegiance
II. PUBLIC COMMENT
A. On agenda items. Time limit: 3 minutes. (Info)
Ill. Additions to the Agenda (Info/Action)
IV. Approval of Minutes
V. Education Presentation—by Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
VI. Administrative Report—Chief Yankowski (Info)
VII. Legal Update— Bill Kim (Info)
Vill. Human Relations & Community Services Liaison —Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson (Info)
IX. Fraternal Order of Police— FOP Members Present(Info)
X. Unfinished Business (Action)
XI. Correspondence Sent and Received—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson (Info)
XII. Department Reports (Info)
XIII. Board Committee Reports—(Info)
A. Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
B. Awards & Incentives Committee
C. Budget Committee
D. Complaint Committee
1. Commission Investigator Report
XIV. Commissioner's Comments—Members Present (Info)
XV. Other Business (Action)/ Discussion Items (Info)
XVI. PUBLIC COMMENT—on any matter. Time limit: 3 minutes. (Info)
XVII. Adjournment—Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
y�N 5 �I�c Lansing Police Department
Board of Police Commissioners
120 West Michigan Avenue " a
Lansing, MI 48933 ,
4v/ Phone: (517) 483-4600 (TDDNoice)
c rt t �' Fax: (517) 377-0162
Virg Bernero,Mayor Chief Mike Yankowski
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17T", 2013
MEMBERS PRESENT: OTHERS PRESENT:
Commissioner Sandra Kowalk-Thompson, Chair Mike Yankowski, Chief of Police
Commissioner Patty Farhat Vice-Chair Bernard Brantley, Commission Investigator
Commissioner Bob Noordhoek Bill Kim, Legal Advisor
Commissioner Jan Kolp Michelle Reddish, Secretary
Commissioner Bill Renfrew Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson, Human Relations
Commissioner Clyde Carnegie
Commissioner Drew Macon
MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC/GUESTS:
MEMBERS EXCUSED:
Commissioner Maria Mejorado
�d
CALL TO ORDER .
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: After having established a quorum, Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson caved thy-
meeting to order at 5:35 p.m. Commissioner Renfrew led the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioner Kowalk asged fcT;a
moment of silence for Kathy Winslow. �-J I C7
c-, l
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None. ;J
r'n _.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA =? . -
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: The Board reviewed the November Minutes. Commissioner Noordhoek made a
motion to approve the November Board Minutes; supported by Commissioner Renfrew; approved
unanimously. The minutes of the regular meeting of November 19, 2013, were approved and placed on file with the
Lansing City Clerk.
EDUCATION PRESENTATION
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor gave a presentation on Why LPD officers get sued and how the City sets out to defend them.
The presentation was very informative.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of December 17, 2013
Page 2
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT
Chief Mike Yankowski:
• Silverbells was a success with just under 100,000 citizens in attendance
• Two Police Officer Informational sessions were held
• Three new hires started and will attend the post-academy in January
• POI process is continuing
• Olds Newsboys
• Shop With a Cop
• Helping Heroes at Target
• No Senior Left Without Christmas
• TRIAD Christmas Baskets
• Promotional/Retirement Ceremony
• Kathy Winslow passed away
• Rich Ballor's mother passed away
• VCI had an outstanding month
• Interviews were held for the Budget Supervisor position
• January and February promotional exams will be held for Sergeant, Lieutenant and Captain
• A double-homicide took place. Officers and fire department personnel were debriefed.
LEGAL ADVISOR UPDATE
Bill Kim, Legal Advisor. None.
HUMAN RELATIONS AND COMMUNITY SERVICES LIAISON
Dr. Joan Jackson Johnson:
• The Mobile Food Pantry was held at Breadhouse Church
• This Saturday about 50 families will get to shop for Christmas
• Dr. Johnson thanked Bernard Brantley for his work
• Christmas will be at Advent House
FRATERNAL ORDER OF POLICE
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: No representative present.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: None.
CORRESPONDENCE SENT AND RECEIVED
Bob Noordhoek made a motion to receive and place on file correspondence for the month of November;
Commissioner Carnegie supported the motion; carried unanimously.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Commissioner Noordhoek made a motion to receive and place on file department reports for the month of
November; Commissioner Renfrew supported the motion; carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS
Gov't/Community Liaison Committee
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson
Nothing to Report.
Awards & Incentives Committee
Commissioner Noordhoek
Nothing to Report.
Board of Police Commissioners
Meeting Minutes of December 17, 2013
Page 3
Budget Committee
Commissioner Renfrew
Nothing to Report.
Complaint Committee
Commissioner Farhat
The Committee will meet in January.
Commission Investigator Report
Bernard Brantley
Nothing to report.
COMMISSIONER'S COMMENTS
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson thanked Chief Yankowski for his professionalism and the time he devotes to his job.
Commissioner Kolp stated the New Hire reception is scheduled for February 19 at the University Club. Elizabeth Reust
did an outstanding job at the department. She wasn't able to attend the Promotion and Retirement celebration. She
appreciates Chief Yankowski for his outstanding leadership.
Commissioner Farhat wished everyone a Merry Christmas.
Dr. Clyde Carnegie sated Lansing was at its best during Silverbells. He thanked Jan Kolp for planning the New Hire
reception and is also thankful for Chief Yankowski, Sandra Kowa lk-Thompson, and Bill Kim.
Commissioner Noordhoek is thankful for Chief Yankowski and the new and exciting things that are happening to the
department.
Commissioner Macon wished everyone a Merry Christmas. He stated he was at Shop with a Cop and will be teaching
the GREAT Program.
OTHER BUSINESS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
None.
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Kowalk-Thompson: There being no further business to discuss, meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.
S 1
Attendance Roster— 2013 •
f j C,1-I I G Lansing Police Department
Virg Bernero,Mayor Board of Police Commissioners Chief Mike Yankowski
Name Special Meetings
Name Regular Meetings
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
15 19 19 16 21 18 16 20 17 15 19 17
C. Carnegie E P P P P P E P P P P P
P. Farhat P P PH P P P P P P P P P
J. Kolp P P P P P P P P P P P P
S. Kowalk- P P P P P P P P P P P P
Thompson
D. Macon P P E P P P PH PH P E E P
M. Me'orado E E E P P P P P P E E E
R. Noordhoek P P P P P P P P P P P P
W. Renfrew P P P E P P P P P P P P
C.Carnegie
P. Farhat
J. Kolp
S. Kowalk-
Thom son
D. Macon
M. Me'orado
R. Noordhoek
W. Renfrew
c r� ` 3_ r`:�
A = Absent
t:>
E = Excused Absence ra L
P = Present �= C•� ,—; }
PH= Present via speakerphone I Skype
IN = No Quorum-Meeting conducted as informational only
NQ= No Quorum-Meeting Canceled
= Not eligible to attend 'i CD' = Meeting cancelled by vote of the Board C�
�i