10-08-12 Health & Public Safety - Laserfiche WebLink

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HEALTH & PUBLIC SAFETY OCTOBER 8,2012 5:18 P.M. Committee Members Present: Dr. Ferlic, Henry Davis, Jr., Karen White, Tim Scott Citizens: Kyle Chamberlin, Marcus Ellison Other Council Members Present: Valerie Schey, Dr. Varner, Oliver Davis, Gavin Ferlic Others Members Present: Aaron Perri, Mike Schmuhl, Chuck Hurley, Gary Gilot, Jeff Rynearson, Tim Lancaster, Chico Rodriguez, Herb Wilson,John Fleming Agenda: Strategy Update—Woodward Fight This meeting of the Health &Public Safety Committee was called to get an update on the long and short term strategy of the SBPD regarding instances like the fight in and outside the "Woodward" in downtown South Bend. Dr. Fred Ferlic, Committee Chair, noted the presence of Aaron Perri from DTSB, Police Chief Hurly and two police officers assigned to the downtown area. At Ferlic's request Chief Hurley reported that the PD had been called seven times to the "Woodward" in the past year,twice for all available units. The chief then called upon 3'1 Detail shift commander Jeff Rynearson to explain the PD's response. Chief Rynearson provided a handout(a copy is on file in the Office of the City Clerk) which briefly describes the PD action plan. The response plan focuses on two areas. First getting to know the owners while soliciting their cooperation to address concerns before they happen. Second,involves creating a unit of three officers to identify and monitor known problem locations. The Fire Department was represented by Chief Rodriguez and John Fleming. They reported the"Woodward"was in compliance with all fire codes. They promised closer inspections of nightspots for occupancy and safety standard compliance. The "Woodward" owner Herb Wilson said that since the disruption he had raised the age limit to 30 for those renting the facility and had hired additional security. These comments prompted considerable discussion among the Councilmembers and those attending. Most comments were prefaced by support for a vibrant downtown while recognizing a need for additional security to keep the downtown vibrant and welcoming. Once again police manpower levels were questioned in terms of adequately patrolling and responding to calls not only downtown;but citywide. Dr. Ferlic said a special committee would look into these matters and report to Council on November 12, 2012.