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Personnel and Finance Committee August 22,2000 Page 3 manpower to fill these requests. Chief Bennett stressed that the first priority is to working on the streets and for the safety of the officers. Council Member King noted that the police bicycle patrol was very effective and provided a sense of security in the areas they patrolled. He stated that they are a terrific example of community-oriented policing and are good for the police department as well as the City. Chief Bennett noted that there are fifteen (15) individuals currently in some phase of training to bring the police department into being fully staffed. He cannot control who retires and how they give notice which is typically by a two (2) week notice being given to the Department. It was suggested that a bonus be considered for those officers who provide notice of six (6) months or greater to the City. Chief Bennett stated that sixty-five (65) police officers are eligible to retire today. He voiced concern about the number who may retire next year since the County Jail will be opening and supervisory personnel will be needed. Chief Bennett noted that overall staffing is not a money problem but rather a staffing problem which must be creatively addressed by the City. Dr. Varner inquired whether auxiliary police would be a possibility for use in the East Race and Howard Park areas. Chief Bennett said he would be open to this, however discussions would need to take place also with the Park Department and the role of Park Police. Council Member White asked about the Operation Safe Neighborhoods Program funded at $60,000. Mr. Pinckert stated that thirty-five (35) officers currently live in the areas designated by the Council, with a total of forty (40) positions being funded. He noted that several officers have inquired about the program and he anticipates that it will go to 37 to 38 in the near future. Mr. Pinckert stated that he would provide where the officers live by District to the Council. Dr. Varner inquired as to whether forty(40) slots would be enough. It was noted that the City would be obligated to pay for all persons who qualify regardless of the number budgeted. Dr. Varner stated that the City should do all that is necessary to discuss ideas to increase residency of our police officers, and would be open to continuing the discussion on this topic. Council Member White asked the Chief about what special challenges are being presented to the police department. Chief Bennett stated that he is considering recommending significant changes within the department which would provide for better accountability. He hopes to have recommendations to the Administration and the Council yet this year if at all possible. Council Member Kirsits inquired about the increase of ten percent(10%) in the self-funded insurance area. It was noted that the reclassification of various accounts contributed toward some of this increase. Citizen Member Gonzalez inquired about the amount of money proposed to be budgeted for education. She inquired about the programs in place to address bi-lingual concerns for Asian Americans for example. She inquired whether the City actively pursues applicants who are bi- lingual especially in light of the growing concerns for 911 responses. Division Chief Kilgore noted that courses are noted with officers being asked to volunteer for such programs. Chief Bennett noted that Hispanic Instructors are utilized at roll calls in the 12-week academy with 2