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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-19-94 Public Safety 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. Committee Report Public Safety Committee October 19, 1994 Page 2 The Council Attorney recommended language included in paragraph (b) requiring that the maps and ordinance be posted in the classroom of the South Bend Police Department. In light of the concern raised by Council Member Washington it was further suggested that an affidavit verifying residency and liability insurance on the residency be included in paragraph(c)and paragraph (d). It was also suggested that the Chief have the boundaries of the proposed Exhibit A displayed on a map which has streets clearly identifiable. The Chief stated that he would attempt to have this in place by Monday's meeting. The Council Attorney stated that she would prepare a Substitute Bill and have it filed with the City Clerk's office by Friday. A Public Safety Committee meeting is being scheduled for next Monday to further discuss the Bill. Council Member Ladewski noted that the incentive of$125.00 per month for each qualifying Police officer would be taxable as was discussed at the time of negotiations. There being no further business to come before the Committee, the meeting was adjourned at 4:55 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Council Member Gene Ladewski Chairperson,Public Safety Committee Attachments