HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/18/2015 Board of Public Safety MeetingPLBiJC AGENDA SESSION FEBRUARY 18.2015 10
The Board of Public Safety met in the Public Agenda Session at 8:12 a.m. on Wednesday, February
18, 2015 in the Classroom, Fire Department Training Center, 710 E. Sample St., South Bend,
Indiana, with Board President Laura Vasquez and Board Members Eddie Miller, John Collins,
Luther Taylor, and Daniel Jones present. Also present was Police Chief Ronald Teachman, Fire
Chief Stephen Cox, and Board Legal Counsel Tasha Outlaw.
ADDITION TO THE AGENDA
President Vasquez noted the addition to the agenda under No. IILC8., of a Police General Order.
Board members discussed the following agenda items:
- Promotions to Captain— Fire Department
Chief Cox stated Troy Platz has been on special assignment for one (1) year and has now completed
all requirements on the checklist and is eligible for promotion. Chief Cox noted all ofthe individuals
up for promotions have done a phenomenal job and one of them, Darrel Eiler is getting a
commendation today.
- Commendations
Chief Cox requested the Board move Item No. 3 to No. 5; Item No. 5 to No. 4; and No. 4 to No. 3 on
the agenda. He explained that Engine 6 was the firston the scene and had the most difficult job so he
would like to identify them first. He stated when they arrived at a house fire; the house was fully
engulfed in flames. He noted the fire was eventually found to be deliberately set. Chief Cox stated
two individuals were found to be still in the house. He stated the Captain on the scene handled the
situation exactly how he should have. Chief Cox stated they heard a person screaming from the
house and dove in the window in the first couple of minutes after arriving and attempted to get him
out of the house. They were unable to move the individual, so the ladder crew got a chain saw and
opened the window up to make a doorway, after which they were able to get him. out. Chief Cox
stated he survived and is still alive, but had it not been for the actions of the fire crew, he would not
have survived. Chief Cox . went on to describe how Rescue 6 arrived and entered the home after being
told there was another individual inside. They were able to get that victim out of the house, but he
had severe burns and didn't survive. Chief Cox noted that life saving measures were taken
immediately and all of the individuals were taken to the hospital within twenty -three (23) minutes of
the 911 call. He added that included the rescue, life saving measures, and drive time. Mr. Taylor
stated that the only thing that prepared them for this is all of the training they have been going
through. Chief Cox stated he couldn't agree more, noting this crew works out daily and creates self -
initiated training at the training tower that isn't even mandated. He stated he couldn't be prouder of
these individuals. Chief Cox stated the Medic crews were at the hospital on another call and self -
initiated on this call and palled up right when the patient was pulled out and started life saving
measures immediately.
- Resignation — Fire Department
Chief Cox stated Firefighter Grant Baker put in for a leave of absence last month, which was denied
by the Board. Chief Cox explained that Mr. Baker has decided he preferred to pursue the other job
opportunity that came up and is resigning from the Fire Department.
- Donations — Fire Department
Chief Cox stated two donations came to the Fire Department unexpectedly. One was sent from two
(2) daughters of a retired Firefighter Joseph Jelinski. Chief Cox noted their motherjust passed away
recently and the daughters felt it necessary to give back to the Fire Department and made a donation
in his honor. Chief Cox stated the second donation is from the Elkhart Brass Company of nozzles
and hoses to the training center. He explained this is a very specialized business, and the only one in
the area, subsequently the Fire Department purchases most of their hoses and nozzles from the
company. Chief Cox stated they wanted to thank the Fire Department for its support of their business
with this donation.
Annual Statistical Analysis — Fire Department _
Chief Cox stated although the Fire Department isn't tracking arsons anymore, incendiary fires are
basically arson. He noted damage to contents and structure numbers are up due to a large fire at the
Park Jefferson Apartments. Ile noted that fire gave the Fire Department an opportunity to do a
tremendous amount of outreach to the residents that has been shared with other apartment
complexes. Chief Cox stated one thing that was done at Park Jefferson was the Fire Department
came up with a small device for $40 that goes under the range hood. Once it heats up, it ejects fire
extinguishing chemicals that will put out a stove fire. He noted there were several instances where
they ejected and prevented a fire from spreading. Chief Cox added there was another large fire at
PUBLIC AGENDA SESSION FEBRUARY 18, 2015 11
Irish Hills Apartments that added to the numbers greatly. He stated they also have gone to those
devices and have not had a significant fire since.
- Findings of Facts— Jack Stilp
President Vasquez stated Judge Chamblee contacted the Board and does not have the Findings ready
yet. She stated this item will need to be tabled.
- Resignation —Kyle Baker
Police Chief Ronald Teachman stated this is an instance where they lost an officer during the field
training program. Be made note of what it takes to become a full- fledged officer in South Bend.
Chief Teachman stated their last training session had eighty -five (85) candidates signed up and only
forty-six (46) showed up. He explained they lose a lot of candidates during the first physical fitness
test. Chief Teachman noted however, this time they did not lose any female candidates. He stated out
of the furry -six (46) that showed up, they lost about ten (10) or eleven (11), but they are still waiting
on results of the written test. Chief Teachman stated the Police Department anticipates about four (4)
to six (6) openings in the spring. He emphasized their field training is a rigorous process w go
through, and many don't make it. Be added once they get on the street, sometimes they realize it's
not the career for them, which is the case in this instance with Kyle Baker's resignation.
- Employee of the Month — Ron Johnson
Chief Teachman stated he would say more during the regular meeting, but this officer vas off duty
when he heard an alert of a strong -armed robbery, spotted the vehicle, stopped it and solved the case.
- Monthly Statistical Analysis
Chief Teachman stated as he explained before, larceny drives all the other categories. He noted there
is a large Opium problem, causing an increase in larceny. Chief Teachman informed the Board that
one merchant balked at the shoplifting policy brought before the Board previously. He noted they are
meeting with them to discuss, and all the other merchants they approached are supportive. Chief
Teachman made note that rape, robbery, and aggravated assault are down this month, as well as
persons shot.
- Addition to the Agenda — General Order for Recording and Live -Feed Capabilities
Chief Teachman stated he hopes to have a discussion about this policy today and allow the Board to
review the draft and vote on it at their next meeting. Chief Teachman explained there are cameras set
up in their interrogation room that were clumsy and awkward and still used VCR's. IRecord came in
and put in a sophisticated device connected to a hard drive or server that allows review from an
outside location and gives the ability to extract parts of discussions that are needed without the need
to make copies of the entire interrogation. Be stated they are looking to store data in the cloud. Chief
Teachman noted they now need a policy for their employees. He informed the Board that they had an
occasion to do an impromptu discussion with multiple suspects but the interrogation rooms are only
built for one suspect, so they want the recording equipment in the conference room.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR
Chief Cox stated he wanted to make the Board aware of their minority and female recruitment
processes. Be stated they have developed a committee to address the issue to get more minority an d
women that has been meeting since December. Chief Cox no they began using some programs
other Fire Departments have been using, and will be performing active recruitment. Chief Cox added
they wanted to improve their online presence and are actively moving, but not because the Council
brought the issue to their attention, because they brought it to the council previously. Mr. Collins
questioned if any member of the council brought any pro-active ideas to you. Chief Cox stated they
have only offered limited support and some Council members have gone on record that it's not their
job to do recruitment, but the Fire Department has to have their support to do this. Mr. Taylor stated
he had conversations with both of the Chiefs and commends both on the steps they've taken to
recruit minorities and women. Chief Cox added that after this meeting, he had a meeting with the
South Bend School Commission and Ivy Tech on how their students can work towards becoming
recruits.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Board the meeting adjourned at 9:03 a.m.
BOA OF PUBLIC SAFETY
i
Laura A. Vasquez, Presid
REGULAR MEETING .FEBRUARY 18, 2015 12
Eddie Miller, Membe
J Collins, Z Me ber
o
Luther T mber
Dan' Jo es, Member
AT T T:
�finda M .Martin, Clerk
EXECUTIVE SESSION FEBRUARY 18.2015
The Board of Public Safety met in the Executive Session on Wednesday, February 18,20t5 at 9:05
a.m. The meeting was held in the Classroom, Fire Department Training Center, 710 E. Sample St.,
South Bend, Indiana for the purposes specified in I.C.5- 14- 1.5- 6.1(b)(6)A). Board President Laura
Vasquez and Board Members Eddie Miller, John Collins, Luther Taylor, and Daniel Jones were
present. Also present were Police Chief Ronald Teachman, Fire Chief Stephen Cox, and Legal
Counsel Tasha Outlaw. Board members did not discuss any subject matter other than the subject
matter as specified in the Public Notice. The meeting adjourned at 9:23 a.m.
�ATTpEST:
j d� -L a M. M in cr ��
Vasquez, President
Eddie Miller,
�JokJfI Collins, Member
Luther T her
1:�;2y
D "e J es, Member
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18.2015
The Board or Public Safety met in the Regular Meeting at 9:25 a.m. on Wednesday, February 18,
2015, with Board President Laura Vasquez and Board Members Eddie Miller, John Collins, Luther
Taylor, and Daniel Jones present. Also present were Police Chief Ronald Teachman, Fire Chief
Stephen Cox, and Legal Counsel Tasha Outlaw, The meeting was held in the Classroom, Fire
Department Training Center, 710 E. Sample St., South Bend, Indiana.
APPROVE MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
Upon a motion by Mr. Taylor, seconded by Mr. Collins and carried, the Board approved the Minutes
of the Special Meetings of February 2 and 9, 2015 and the Public Agenda Session, Executive
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18 2015 13
Session, and Regular Meetings of January 21, 2015, as presented.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
APPROVE PROMOTION TO THE RANK OF CAPTAIN IN SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT —TROY
PLATZ
In a letter to the Board, Fire Chief Stephen Cox stated that the South Bend Fire Department has a
vacancy for a Captain. In accordance with the promotion policy established by the South Bend Fire
Department and IAFF Local 362, Chief Cox recommends that Firefighter First Class Troy Platz be
promoted to the rank of Captain in Special Assignment effective February 18, 2015, for a
probationary period of one year. Chief Cox stated that Firefighter Platz was appointed to the South
Bend Fire Department on June 5, 2002 and has proven his leadership skills and ability in fire
suppression as well as EMS job functions. Therefore, upon a motion made by Mr. Miller, seconded
by Mr. Taylor and carried, the recommendation for promotion was accepted and approved. Chief
Cox pinned Captain Platz's badge on him. The Board joined him in congratulating him on his
promotion.
APPROVE PERMANENT PROMOTION TO THE RANK OF CAPTAIN — DARRELL EILER
In a letter to the Board, Fire Chief Stephen Cox stated that on February 19, 2014, Firefighter Darrell
Filer was placed in the position of Captain in Special Assignment. The assignment required several
evaluations in order to determine his abilities in a leadership position. Chief Cox stated that
Firefighter Eiler has completed all requirements of the position he has occupied in outstanding
fashion and he is therefore recommending that he be permanently promoted to the rank of Captain,
no longer in Special Assignment, effective February 18, 2015- Chief Cox stated Captain Filer was
appointed as the Fire Department's Public Education Officer last year and has done a phenomenal
job. Therefore, upon a motion made by Mr. Miller, seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried, the
recommendation for promotion was accepted and approved.
APPROVE PERMANENT PROMOTION TO THE RANK OF CAPTAIN — GERARD ELLIS
In a letter to the Board, Fire Chief Stephen Cox stated that on February 19, 2014, Firefighter Gerard
Ellis was placed in the position of Captain in Special Assignment. The assignment required several
evaluations in order to determine his abilities in a leadership position. Chief Cox stated that
Firefighter Ellis has completed all requirements of the position he has occupied in outstanding
fashion and he is therefore recommending that he be permanently promoted to the rank of Captain,
no longer in Special Assignment, effective February 18, 2015. Chief Cox noted he has done a
fantasticjob. Therefore, upon a motion made by Mr. Miller, seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried, the
recotmmendation for promotion was accepted and approved.
COMMENDATIONS
Ms. Kathryn Roos, Chief of Staff, Mayor's Office, stated she had a letter from Mayor Buttigieg she
would like to read, noting the Mayor was out of town and sent his regrets that he could not attend
today's meeting. Ms. Roos stated Mayor Buttigieg thanked all of the firefighters being commended
today for their bravery and dedication in their response to this fire. He noted without hesitation they
put their lives at risk to rescue others. IIe stated this gives us a chance to honor what you do on a
daily basis. Mayor Buttigieg stated he regularly hears stories like this about our Police and Fire
personnel putting their lives at risk on behalf of all South Bend residents. Mayor Buttigieg stated he
wished to thank them for all they do for our citizens. Chief Cox stated that shortly after this fire, the
Mayor joined the Chief's and met with the firemen involved in this incident and had discussions
about what happened.
COMMENDATIONS FOR CAPTAIIQ BRANDON MAY AND FIREFIGHTERS GENE AMOR
AND JASON ELICK
Fire Chief Stephen Cox presented the following commendation:
COMMENDATION FOR CAPTAIN BRANDON MAY AND FIREFIGHTERS
GENE AMOR AND JASON ELICK
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Safety wishes to issue commendations to
individuals thatperform meritorious service on behalf of the citizens of this community,
and;
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18.2015 14
WHEREAS, such service shall be recognized by the Board of Public Sqfety and appropriate
commendation shall be presented to the individuals performing said meritorious service;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that commendation be given to:
Captain Brandon May and Firefighters Gene Amor and Jason Elick —
At approximately 23:40 hours on January 20, 2015, the crew of Engine 6 responded to the report
of a residential fire at 857 S. Greenview. Upon arrival at the scene of a one -story residential structure
fully engulfed in flames, Captain May performed a 360 degree walk - around to investigate hazards
and was told by occupants that had already escaped the flames that there were possibly two more
victims inside the home. After advising all other units about the possible entrapment, Captain May
passed command and stretched a hose line in order to protect Firefighter Elick and Firefighter
Randall from Truck 6 who made entry to perform a Vent, Enter, Search operation through a window
on the delta side of the house. After passing the hand -line through the window to the interior
firefighters, Captain May made entry through the window himself. Firefighters Flick and Randall
had discovered the victim inside the room of entry and identified that he was too large to remove
through the window. Truck 6 crew were creating a I arger opening for the removal of the victim when
crew members from Rescue 1 assisted with moving the victim out of the house through the enlarged
opening. The Engine 6 crew assisted with emergency medical care for the victim until he was
removed from the scene on Medic 4. Pump Operator Gene Amor provided water supply to crews
operating on the interior of this extrication which was vital to firefighter safety.
The actions of the crew of Engine 6 at this fire directly contributed to this patient's survival.
Be it further resolved that Brandon May, Crene Amor, and Jason Elick be commended and —
recognized for their quick actions, dedication, and professionalism. Their actions reflect highly upon
themselves, the South Bend Fire Department, and the City of South Bend.
Awarded this 18t° day of February 2015.
s/Laura. Vasquez, President
s/Eddie Miller, Member
s /John Collins, Member
s/Luther Taylor, Member
s/Daniel Jones, Member
ATTEST:
s/Linda Martin, Clerk
COMMFNDATIONS FOR CAPTAIN DARRELL EILER AND FIREFIGHTERS AARON
RANDALL AND CHRIS MANZUK
Fire Chief Stephen Cox presented the following commendation:
COMMENDATION FOR CAPTAIN DARRELL EILER AND FIREFIGHTERS AARON
RANDALL AND CHRIS MANZUK
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Safety wishes to issue commendations to
individuals thatperform meritorious service on behalf of the citizens of this community, and;
WHEREAS, such service shall be recognized by the Board of Public Safety and
appropriate commendation shall beprescnted to the individuals performing said meritorious
service;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that commendation be given to:
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18.2015 IS
Captain Darrell Eiler and Firefighters Aaron Randall and Chris Manzuk
At approximately 23:40 hours on January 20, 2015, the crew of Truck 6 responded to the
report of a residential fire at 857 S. Greenview. Upon arrival at the scene of a one -story residential
structure fully engulfed in flames, and members of Engine 6 already committed to search and rescue
activities aimed at removing two victims from the home, Firefighter Randall assisted Firefighter
Elick from Engine 6 to perform a Vent, Enter, Search operation on the delta side of the building.
Once a victim was found, and it was apparent that he was too large to extricate from the home's
existing openings, Captain Eiler and Firefighter Manzuk took the initiative to create a "doorway"
from the window on that side of the house, using a chainsaw to enlarge the opening, As interior
crews, including Firefighter Randall, were moving the victim towards the opening, Captain Eiler and
Firefighter Manzuk assisted with removing the victim from the home. All three firefighters
continued to assist Medic 4 personnel providing emergency medical care to the injured man.
Firefighter Randall drove Medic 4 to the hospital in order to allow the Medic crew to continue to
provide care in the ambulance. This patient was delivered to the hospital twenty -three minutes after
the 911 call was received in the dispatch center. Without the synchronized teamwork that was
necessary for this rescue, along with these crews adapting to a difficult extrication, this rescue would
not have been possible.
The actions of the crew of Truck 6 at this fire directly contributed to this patient's survival.
Be it further resolved that Darrell Filer, Aaron Randall, and Chris Manzuk be commended and
recognized for their quick actions, dedication, and professionalism. Their actions reflect highly upon
themselves, the South Bend Fire Department, and the City of South Bend.
Awarded this 18' day of February 2015.
s/Laura Vasquez, President
s /Eddie Miller, Member
s /John Collins, Member
s /Luther Taylor, Member
s/Daniel Jones, Member
ATTEST:
s/Linda Martin, Clerk
COMMENDATIONS FOR FIREFIGHTER MIKE CARROLL DEREK ER UHART RYAN
KAKAf.IA. AND MIKE OLSON
Fire Chief Stephen Cox presented the following commendation:
COMMENDATION FOR FIREFIGHTERS MIKE CARROLL, DEREK
ERQUHART, RYAN KAKALIA, AND MIKE OLSON
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Safety wishes to issue commendations to individuals
that perform meritorious service on behalf of the citizens of this community, and;
WHEREAS, such service shall be recognized by the Board of Public Safety, and
appropriate commendation shall be presented to the individuals performing said meritorious
service;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that commendation be given to:
Firefighters Mike Carroll, Derek Erquhart, Ryan Kakalia, and Mike Olson
At approximately 23:40 hours on January 20, 2015, the crew of Rescue 1 responded to the
report of a residential fire at 857 S. Greenview. Upon arrival at the scene of a one -story residential
structure fully engulfed in flames, Rescue 1 crew members split into two search and rescue teams
entering the burning home. The first team, consisting of Firefighters Carroll and Olson, found a
burned victim that was barely conscious in the bathroom which was located in the middle of the
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18 2015 16
structure. Carroll and Olson removed the victim from the structure, using the same route that they
used for entry as crews had begun to extinguish flames in that area of the house. The victim was
alive, but badly burned and was handed over to waiting EMS crews outside the house. This crew
then re- entered the home and continued to search the remainder of the house. The second crew
from Rescue 1, consisting of Firefighters F.rquhart and Kakalia, continued their initial search and
found members of Engine 6 and Truck 6 working on their extrication of the other victim from the
bedroom. These firefighters assisted with the removal of this patient from the home and the
extinguishment of the fire after patient removal.
The actions of the crew of Rescue 1 at this fire directly contributed to the removal of both
patients alive and immediately treating both with advanced life support measures on the scene.
Be it further resolved that Mike Carroll, Derek Erquhart, Ryan Kakalia, and Mike Olson be
commended and recognized for their quick actions, dedication, and professionalism. Their actions
reflect highly upon themselves, the South Bend Fire Department, and the City of South Bend.
Awarded this 18`s day of February 2015.
s/Laura Vasquez, President
s/Eddie Miller, Member
s /Jahn Collins, Member
s/Luther Taylor, Member
s/Danicl Jones, Member
ATTEST:
s/Linda Martin, Clerk
COMMENDATIONS FOR CAPTAIN ROB ROSE, T.T. SUZIE KRILL AND FIREFTG14TERS —
NICK MILLER. COREY POWELL, AND DAVID TAGUE
Fire Chief Stephen Cox presented the following commendation:
COMMENDATION FOR CAPTAIN ROB ROSE, LIEUTENANT SUZIF. KRILL, AND
FIREFIGHTERS NICK MILLER, COREY POWELL, AND DAVID TAGUE
WHEREAS, the Board of Public Safety wishes to issue commendations to individuals
that perform meritorious service on behalf of the citizens of this community, and;
WHEREAS, such service shall be recognized by the Board of Public Safety and
appropriate; commendation shall be presented to the individuals performing said meritorious
service,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that commendation be given to:
Captain Rob Rose, Lieutenant Suzie Krill, and Firefighters Nick Miller, Corey
Powell, and David Tague
At approximately 23:40 hours on January 20, 2015, the crews of Medic 4, Medic 5, and 1660
responded to the report of a residential fire at 857 S. Greenview. Upon arrival at the scene of a --
one -story residential structure fully engulfed in flames, first arriving crews were announcing that
there were multiple victims trapped in the home. As the first victim was removed from the building
by Rescue 1personnel, Captain Rose began administering advanced life support procedures to the
severely injured man. I he Medic 4 crew, who were initially dispatched to the call, were working
directly with Engine 6 and Truck 6 crews with the extrication of the patient from the delta side of
the house. Once the patient was removed from the house, Firefighters Miller and Powell began to
administer advanced life support procedures to the patient. They immediately packaged the patient
with the assistance of the 6 's crews and drove expediently to the hospital while continuing to
provide life- saving medical care. Along with the critical patient that had been trapped in the house,
Miller and Powell also transported several other occupants that had self - rescued, but had suffered
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18. 2015 17
from smoke inhalation. As the Engine 6 crew reported that there were victims in the house,
Lieutenant Krill took the initiative to self - dispatch to the scene on Medic 5 with Firefighter Tague.
As they arrived on scene, they pulled up next to the area where Captain Rose was administering
care to the initial victim. Krill and Tague assisted Capt. Rose with administering emergency
medical care and packaging the victim for transport to the hospital. Due to the coordination of
efforts, initiative taken by individuals during the course of the incident, and phenomenal teamwork
exhibited by all members of the SBFD effort; all patients were delivered to the hospital within 23
minutes of the initial 911 call for the fire.
The actions of the crews of Medics 4, 5, and 1660 at this fire directly contributed to the
ultimate survival of all but one of the patients involved in this incident in spite of the severity of the
injuries sustained by them.
Be it further resolved that Rob Rose, Suzie Krill, Nick Miller, Corey Powell, and David Tague
be commended and recognized for their quick actions, dedication, and professionalism. Their
actions reflect highly upon themselves, the South Bond Fire Department, and the City of South Bend.
Awarded this 18" day of February 2015.
s/Laura Vasquez, President
s /Eddie Miller, Member
s /John Collins, Member
s/Luther Taylor, Member
s/Daniel Jones, Member
ATTEST:
s /Linda Martin, Clerk
ACCEPT AND APPROVE DECLARATION FOR RETIREMENT — RON BRANDT
President Vasquez advised that Fire Chief Steve Cox has submitted to the Board the Application and
Declaration for Retirement for Captain Ron Brandt effective February 1, 2015. Chief Cox noted that
Mr. Brandt was appointed to the Fire Department on June 5, 1979, and has served with loyalty and
diligence. Chief Cox joined the Board in thanking him for his commitment, distinguished years of
service to the South Bend Fire Department and the citizens of South Bend. Members also wished
him a long and happy retirement. Upon a motion made by Mr. Collins, seconded by Mr. Taylor
and carried, the retirement was accepted and approved.
ACCEPT AND APPROVE LETTER OF RESIGNATION GRANT BAKFR
In a letter to the Board, Fire Chief Stephen Cox requested the Board accept a letter of resignation
from Firefighter Grant Baker effective February 11, 2015. Chief Cox joined the Board in wishing
him the best of luck in his future endeavors. Upon a motion made by Mr. Collins, seconded by Mr.
Taylor and carried, the resignation was accepted and approved.
ACCEPT AND FILE TWO (2) DONATIONS TO SOUTH BEND FIRE DEPARTMENT
Fire Chief Stephen Cox advised the Board of two generous donations made to the South Bend Fir,
Department. He stated a donation of $1.000.00 was received from the daughters of retired Firefighter
Joseph Jelinski on their parents' behalf, and a donation of approximately $14,000.00 worth of nozzle
and appliance hardware was received from Elkhart Brass. Chief Cox noted this equipment will be
used exclusively at the Luther J. Taylor Sr. Fire Training Center and will reduce the wear and tear on
front line equipment used by the Department. Chief Cox stated the Fire Department is extremely
grateful for the generosity of both donors. There being no further discussion, the donations were
accepted and filed.
FILING OF MONTHLY STATISTICAL ANALYSIS REPORT — JANUARY 2015
Fire Chief Stephen Cox submitted to the Board the monthly report for January, 2015 compiled by the
Prevention/Inspection Bureau of the Fire Department. Ms. Vasquez stated if there were no
objections, the Board would accept the report for filing as presented.
A summary is as follows:
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18, 2015 18
JANUARY
JANUARY
2014
2015
STRUCTURE FIRES
Property Damage -- Buildings & Contents
(Estimates
$449,050.00 $145,100.00
INSPECTION DIVISION
235 Inspections
350 Total Inspections
(52 Rc -Ins ections)
(86 Re -Ins actions)
INVESTIGATION DIVISION
14
15
Investigations
Investi ations
2 Incendiary
2 Incendiary
8 Accidental
7 Accidental
1 Natural
0 Natural
3 Undetermined
6 Undetermined
FILING OF 2014 ANNUAL STATISTICAL ANALYSIS REPORT
Fire Chief Stephen Cox submitted to the Board the Annual Statistical Report for 2014 compiled by
the Prevention/Inspection Bureau of the Fire Department. Chief Cox made note the Fire Department
has deployed some inexpensive means to reduce fires and seen a decrease in fires and property
damage because of those means. He added property damage is up due to a couple of large apartment
complex fires that allowed the Fire Department to come in and do public education on fire
Prevention with the residents. Ms. Vasquez stated if there were no objections, the Board would
accept the report for filing as presented.
A summary is as follows:
ANNUAL
ANNUAL
2013
2014
STRUCTURE FIRES
Property Damage--Buildings & Contents
Hst im ates)
$1,667,262.00 $3,068,867.00
INSPECTION DIVISION
1673 Inspections
3133 Tntal Inspections
(885 Re-Inspections)
(840 Re-inspections)
INVESTIGATION DIVISION
186
169
Investigations
Investi ations
22 Incendiary
27
75 Accidental
Arson
1 Natural
68 Undetermined
F"Li%.E DEPAR1 v EN 1
RESET HEARINGS OF DISCIPLINARY CHARGES –DAVID GNO'IH
Upon a motion by Mr. Collins, seconded by Mr. Taylor and carried, the hearing of disciplinary
charges for Officer David Gnoth was reset for March 5, 2015 at 8:30 a.m. in the 4" Floor Common
Council Chambers of the County-City Building.
TABLE APPROVAL OF FINDINGS OF FACT –JACK STILP —
President Vasquez stated that the Board's Hearing Officer was not able to finish the Findings of Fact
and therefore they would need to be tabled at this time. Therefore, upon a motion by Mr. Collins,
seconded by Mr. Jones and carried, the Findings of Fact regarding the disciplinary charges were
tabled.
ACCEPT AND APPROVE RESIGNATION – KYLE BAKER
In a letter to the Board, Police Chief Ronald Teachman requested the Board accept an Officer's
Report from Patrolman Kyle Baker informing of his resignation from the South Bend Police
Department effecii ve January 20, 2015. Upon a motion made by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Collins
and carried, the resignation was accepted and approved.
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18, 2015 19
RESCIND SPECIAL POLICE COMMISSION — BLOCK BY BLOCK PARKING
ENFORCEMENT —DEBRA CIESTELSKI
In a letter to the Board, Police Chief Ronald Teachman requested the Board rescind the special
Police Commission for Debra Ciesielski effective February 17, 2015. ChiefTeachman explained she
is no longer an employee of Block by Block. Upon a motion by Mr. Jones, seconded by Mr. Taylor
and carried, the Special Police Commission was rescinded as outlined above.
ACCEPT RECOMMENDATION FOR EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH — DECEMBER 2014 —
RONJOHNSON
Chief Teachman stated that Patrolman Ron Johnson was selected as Employee of the Month for
December, 2014. The award is to recognize officers, civilian employees, on the South Bend Police
Department who have demonstrated actions noted by supervisors or citizens from both a professional
law enforcement position and in support of the community, policing efforts with citizens of South
Bend. Chief Teachman stated that on December 2, 2014 while off duty in Mishawaka, Patrolman
Ron Johnson heard a dispatch of a strong armed robbery, saw the vehicle matching the suspect's and
apprehended the suspect who later confessed to that and other previous robberies. Chief Teachman
noted he went one step beyond while off -duty, and earned the employee of the month for his work.
There being no further discussion, the recommendation was accepted for filing.
FILNG OF QUARTERLY REPORT FOR SPECIALIZED SCI1 OOLS OCTOBER
NOVEMBER- AND DECEMBER 2014
Captain Mattie Taylor, Director of Training Division, South Bend Police Department, submitted to
the Board a written Quarterly Report for Specialized Training for the period of October, November,
and December 2014. 'The report indicated the specialized training attended, the names of the officers
who attended and the costs involved. Chief Teachman noted there are sixty-five (65) different
categories of tainings and noted the diversity of the training. There being no questions concerning
this report, the Quarterly Report for Specialized Training as submitted was accepted and filed.
FILING OF MONTHLY STATISTICAL ANALYSIS REPORT — .JANUARY 2015
Chief Teachman stated there is a downward trend in violent crimes this month, but he is concerned
about the upward trend in property crimes. On that note, he added, he will be coming before the
Board with a final shoplifting policy at their next meeting. Chief Teachman informed the Board there
was a 10% decrease in persons shot from January. President Vasquez stated that unless there were
questions or objections by members of the Board, the statistical analysis report for the month of
January 2015, as submitted by the Police Department, would be accepted for filing. There being no
objections, the following report was accepted for filing:
ACCEPT DRAFT GENERAL ORDERS — REPORTING AND LIVE FEED CAPABILITIES
Chief Teachman stated this General Order addresses the interrogation room used for questioning, and
the antiquated system for recording. He noted they have gone to a better system with one switch to
turn on and that gives access to storage in the "cloud ". Chief Teachman introduced Division Chief
Steve Smith to do a presentation to the Board. Chief Smith stated the Board has been presented with
a draft for review of a policy the Police Department hopes to adopt. He explained the new system is
up and running and is phenomenal. IIe stated everyone has been trained on using the system. The
policy speaks to ownership, use, and a recording policy of the equipment and which rooms are
JANUARY
JANUARY
YEAR TO
PART IOFFENSES
2014
2015
CHANGE
DATE
2014
2015
CHANGE
MURDER
0
3
T
3
RAPE
10
4
0
3
+
3
ROBBERY
26
21
-
6
10
4
6
AGGRAVATED
17
15
-
5
26
21
5
ASSAULT
-
2
17
15
-
2
BURGLARY RESIDENT
59
75
+
16
BURGLARY NON
59
75
r
16
RESIDENT
13
23
+
10
13
23
+
10
LARCENY
184
251
+
67
184
251
+
67
MOTOR VEHICLE
26
34
+
8
26
THEFT
34
+
8
ARSONS
2
2
0
GRAND TOTAL
337
428
+
91
2
337
2
428
+
0
91
ACCEPT DRAFT GENERAL ORDERS — REPORTING AND LIVE FEED CAPABILITIES
Chief Teachman stated this General Order addresses the interrogation room used for questioning, and
the antiquated system for recording. He noted they have gone to a better system with one switch to
turn on and that gives access to storage in the "cloud ". Chief Teachman introduced Division Chief
Steve Smith to do a presentation to the Board. Chief Smith stated the Board has been presented with
a draft for review of a policy the Police Department hopes to adopt. He explained the new system is
up and running and is phenomenal. IIe stated everyone has been trained on using the system. The
policy speaks to ownership, use, and a recording policy of the equipment and which rooms are
REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 18, 2015 20
capable of being recorded, noting there is a need for multiple rooms to be capable. Chief Smith
explained on one occasion there were twelve (12) individuals involved in a shooting that needed to
be interviewed and the Police Department didn't have the capability to accommodate all at once.
Chief Smith informed the Board that a form will be created for a request to copy recordings and
authorization that will require either Chief Smith's or Chief Teachman's signature. He noted the
system will be a huge time saver, eliminating the need to copy complete recordings with the
recordings available on the server and accessible anywhere. Chief Smith stated they will be granting
the Prosecutor's office access to redacting authority. Ms. Vasquez asked how long before the
Prosecutor's office would have access and if they would also need to have authorization signatures.
Chief Smith stated they are working on it now, it shouldn't be long and they will not need approval
signatures, however only the prosecutors working on the specific charging case will have access.
Chief Teachman added the Prosecutors office can extract, but they won't be able to alter.
PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR
Chief Cox stated he passes out the Fire Department's recruitment brochure for the Board to review.
He noted a committee has been created to improve minority, female and all recruitment. He added
they have done a phenomenal job.
There being no further business to come before the Board, upon a motion by Mr. Jones, seconded by
Mr. Taylor and carried, the meeting adjourned at 10:21 a.m.
BOAR67tOF PUBLIC SAFETY
Laura A. Vasquez, President'
Eddie Miller, Member /f /��X
Jobor Collins. Member
Luther or, lWmber
D iel ones, Member
ATT ST:
da' Martin, Clerk