09-06-16 Personnel and Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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Committeemember Williams- Preston would like to follow up with Chief Ruzskowski regarding how she could help through the Community Relations Committee in sharing department highlights. She also asked about surveillance cameras and the expansion of the program. Chief Ruzskowski explained that the cameras are being used on Smart Streets, but he'd like to use cameras to monitor public schools and parks for precision policing. She would also like to see a conversation regarding Code and illegal dumping to monitor the dumping hotspots which can also lead to solving other crimes. Chief Ruzskowski agreed that it an example of Broken Windows Theory. Councilmember Kelly thanked the Police Department for the presentation and efforts in public safety. He also asked what South Bend can do to mitigate the potential of Chicago violence and crime spilling over into the South Bend area. Chief Ruzskowski recognized it as a concern to public safety; especially as it relates to drugs and gangs. Councilmember Scott asked if the plate ID equipment is effective. Chief Ruzskowski responded that Indiana has six - hundred (600) different specialty plates which cause issues with software updates. Councilmember Scott mentioned that he was impressed by the department's Career Path programs. He wondered if officers utilized the library if they'd get points or credit toward the interview process or if the department would consider cross - training or a rotational system. Chief Ruzskowski responded that the interview questions are all HR approved and written and recognized the idea as a possible addendum to the process. In regard to cross - training, Chief Ruzskowski responded that he'd like investigators and supervisors to serve as trainers and potentially utilize their expertise in the streets. Councilmember Scott asked if grant writing is a proactive priority of the department. Chief Ruzskowski responded they are looking into grants, but what happens when the grant funding runs out. Councilmember Scott argued to the Administration and Chief Ruzskowski that recruiting needs to be an urgent budget priority and reflected in proactive training and resources. James Mueller, Mayor's Office, responded that the Mayor's Office is concerned about the recruiting issue as well, and that'll be an upcoming priority of the department. Councilmember Scott asked how PSAP funding works and expressed his general frustration regarding the transition and lack of information provided to Council. He shared he's having a meeting with Ron Banicki and Rafael Morton who are generally unhappy with the process as well. 11