03-23-11 Health & Public Safety Committee

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'S�r I '' i t: .:! . �` i�. Health and Public Safety Committee Meeting of March 23, 2011 Page 4 Council Member White agreed with Dr. Varner's assessment. She stated that people have to know that "graffiti in South Bend is not acceptable". The Council Attorney noted that Elkhart and other communities appear to stress in their graffiti abatement programs that there are consequences to tagging. PR campaigns against graffiti, educational programs, and judicial intervention all are part of the process. She added that she provided copies of the City of Sacramento's flow chart on their graffiti abatement program a few years ago. A similar flow chart on how South Bend handles graffiti would appear worthwhile. Elkhart also uses their Street Crimes Unit of their Police Department in attacking graffiti. Her research of communities which have restrictions on selling spray paint have had limited success, and that there is a cost involved in implementing such regulations. Assistant City Attorney Ann-Carol Nash stated that she met with Police Chief Boykins several months ago. She offered to work on this, noting that the state laws referred to by the Council Attorney are the relevant governing regulations. Council President Dieter stated that he would not be in favor of local legislation regarding the sale of spray paint. He noted that "kids talk and a monetary or iphone reward program may be much more effective". Judge Nemeth and his staff also needs to be involved. Council Member White suggested reconvening on graffiti in two (2) weeks. The Mayor's Office would again be asked to give an update. She again stressed that "it must be a final update on a comprehensive program which is sustainable". She also suggested that their needs to be a PR blitz using public service announcements, neighborhood associations, schools, brochures, rewards, incentives, hotlines, calls ins, computer tracking, etc. Perhaps a representative from Elkhart could also be invited. Council Member Oliver Davis suggested that City Controller Gregg Zientara be asked to review the current budget to see if there were any monies which could be earmarked. He added that he was glad that this Committee meeting was called, since it is apparent that there are many disconnects. Council President Dieter stated that South Bend needs to be much more organized. When Captain Wanda Shock was on the Police Department, it was much more effective. He also noted that 6-8 years ago, Ducomb Center was used also. He believes that the Mayor need to authorize the Chief to identify officers and create a data base. Council Member White then opened up the meeting to comments from the public.