10-19-94 Public Safety - Laserfiche WebLink

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COMM f tttt Ztport: Public Safety Committee 'Co the Common Council of tbt QCitv of South 31Bentn The October 19, 1994 meeting of the Public Safety Committee was called to order by its Chairperson, Council Member Gene Ladewski at 4:10 p.m. in the Council informal meeting room. Persons in attendance included Council Members Luecke, Puzzello, Washington, and Ladewski; Chief Ron Marciniak, Corporal Thomas Leszcz, Richard Nussbaum, John Broden,Don Porter,and Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand. It was noted that only Council Member Ladewski from the Committee was present with Council Members Duda, Kelly, and Coleman of the Committee being absent, and therefore there was not a quorum. Council Member Ladewski noted that the purpose of the meeting was to discuss Bill No. 96-94 which addresses the Operation Safe Neighborhoods Program. He suggested that the proposed Bill be reviewed section by section for discussion. It was noted that the Operation Safe Neighborhoods Program is a three year commitment to the South Bend Police Department by the City of South Bend.As many as five current sworn members or officers may live in the proposed areas once the program becomes effective. Chief Marcinick then gave further information with regard to the two maps identified as"Exhibit A"in the Ordinance.He noted that the first map shows statistics from August of 1993 through August of 1994 showing that there were 3,497 arrests made throughout the City. Map 2 shows statistics from August of 1993 through August of 1994 showing that there were 30, 822 police reports taken Citywide. He noted that the South Bend Police Department receives approximately 115,000 calls annually. It was suggested that the actual boundaries of the areas to be included within the Operation Safe Neighborhoods Program be as futuristic as possible since the boundaries would be established for a three year period. It was also noted that the proposed boundaries incorporate approximately 50%of the City of South Bend. Council President Puzzelo voiced concern with regard to visibility. Council Member Luecke noted that he has officers living within his district and that the neighbors know,and that the word spreads quite quickly. Council Member Washington noted that often Police Officers reprimand and talk with teenagers rather than make arrests which results in respect and deterrence. Council Member Ladewski questioned the role of the officers when off duty. Chief Marciniak noted that it was not the intent of the Ordinance for officers to make arrests but rather to be visible by living within the areas and to give a sense of security. Council Member Washington questioned the potential liability to the City of South Bend. City Attorney Richard Nussbaum stated that unless the residence becomes "Operational"that he does not believe that there would be any exposure to the City.