02-22-12 Residential Neighborhoods & Health & Public Safety Committees

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Citizen Member Marcus Ellison said we need to know current reporting procedures between the SBPD and Courtyard as well as lines of communication among city departments. Chief Boykins said he can and will supply any data requested. Twining to the public portion, Chairperson Scott heard first from Mike Schmuhl, the Mayor's Chief of Staff, who said he will facilitate access to all information. Next, Pete Agostino, an attorney representing a client who was a victim of a violent crime at Courtyard said there is definitely a problem at the complex citing a violent crime every week since 2008. Joe Dantly, a resident at the complex said calls of problems to management are not acted upon and are often after security leaves at 9:30 p.m. John Leader, a business owner for 15 years across 26th Street from the apartments said much vandalism, drug activity, litter and other problems have been going on for years and likely often unreported. He urged a pro- active rather than reactive approach. He suggested an alley vacation, parking restrictions, better code enforcement and increased police presence. Larry Clifford said the City response has been timed and totally unacceptable. He echoed calls for a round -table problem solving approach suggesting Marva Leonard Dent from the Housing Authority be at the table. He said the Council should demand an action plan. Barbara Wade, nearby resident and past president of the River Park Neighborhood Organization supported the character and efforts of Carla Smith. She added that the out of town owners needed to be brought to task. Councilmember Gavin Ferlic said in light of this persistent unacceptable situation the Council must work together with all vested parties to formulate an effective plan. Councilmember Henry Davis agreed; but reiterated the Council was only legislative not charged with enforcement. Councilmember Dr. Fred Ferlic said we are all responsible for crafting a new paradigm in that it was obvious what we're doing now was not working. Councilmember White observed this meeting was a good first step urging the Council to follow -up. There being no further business to come before the joint committee, Chairperson Scott reiterated the need to work together for change. Chairperson Scott adjourned the meeting at 7:52 p.m.