02-07-00 Health & Public Safety - Laserfiche WebLink

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Health and Public Safety Committee February 7, 2000 Page 2 Council President Pfeifer noted that the Superior Court judges hold monthly meetings and suggested a forum with them on this topic. She applauded the emphasis on crack houses since many of her constituents have voice increasing concern about them. She noted that the residents have voiced concern about how the City Attorney's Office explains the City's policy on crack houses. In response to a question from Council President Pfeifer, Chief Bennett noted that he has received good cooperation from Code Enforcement and the County Prosecutor's Office. He has had three(3) meetings with Prosecutor Toth with the last two having the Mayor in attendance. The Community Prosecutor's Operation is still being developed with cooperation of all entities being needed. Chief Bennett stated that Herceg & Associates is doing a building study. The Street Department will have a new building by 2001, with remodeling and additions being considered to the present police/fire complex. Chief Bennett stated that the# 1 issue is that the current building does not have enough space. The City is looking at a multifaceted complex. He noted that the parking area is needed in order to properly stage emergency responses in the event of a major emergency. Council Member Aranowski stated that something has to be done. Police officers need locker rooms. He also noted that the officers are fighting for the use of three(3)computers and one(1)printer which he finds unacceptable. He voiced concern over the delays on the computer software upgrades. Assistant Fire Chief Switalski stated that he met with Herceg&Associates. He gave them a copy of the Cole Associates study of five(5)years ago. He stated that the first step is to relocate the Street Department. He stressed the need for a free-standing training facility. Design phase is to be in the year 2000 and construction is to begin in 2001 for the Street Department facility. Chief Bennett stated the the computer system is not where it should be. The system was designed so that the officers would not have to go into the Police Station,yet because of the software problems each officer with a laptop computer in his or her car must still come to the station. He stated that if the problems are not addressed soon, that the problems will escalate. Chief Bennett rode on the afternoon shift last week and cited numerous examples of computer problems being experienced by the department. He has been told that the problem is in the hands of the Legal Department. Council President Pfeifer questioned whether the fire and police operations could be separated. She noted the Communications Center but believes that for the good of the community and the departments that all avenues should be pursued. Council Member Kelly stated that the top priority should be serving the public and not trying to save money. If the Police Department should be moved then the City should look at a new facility. Council Member Aranowski questioned Chief Bennett about a training facility. Chief Bennett does not believe that one(1)training facility can adequately address the needs and