09-07-04 Health & Public Safety - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Health and Public Safety Committee Council Member Puzzello noted that in some cases the city may get irritated because the same persons are calling,but they should realize that they are just trying to sleep. Chief Fautz stated that he would like to dedicate resources, but on the weekends this is not a priority which would justify extra details unless it is made mandatory and that would be a violation of the police contract. The Chief stated that only if there is a public emergency can he mandate such details. He urged the residents to continue to call however because the department looks at calls for services. He stated that perhaps they will have to look into calling upon the state police and the state excise officers. In response to a question from Council Member Puzzello, Chief Fautz stated that the department would listen to calls so that they have a better understanding of the scope of the problem. Mrs. Hobing stated that she believes that many of the police officers do not understand the ordinance. The noise is making many of the homes in the Wooded Estate area uninhabitable.. Chief Fautz stated that the enforcement procedure is time consuming and often takes 45 minutes to an hour to determine if one is underage. He stated that there must be consistent coverage and it is the responsibility of the Chief to see that his officers understand the noise ordinance. Council Member Puzzello inquired about the use of a decibel meter. Chief Fautz stated that the department does not use the meters any more, noting that the city has a good noise ordinance. A question was raised about resident cab companies and their lack of response when a drunken student calls for a cab. Residents noted that they are concerned about the students safety and welfare,noting that they have seen them stand in the rain for long period of time. Ann-Carol Nash of the Legal Department stated that taxicab licenses require companies that have three(3)or more cabs to operate 24/7. Council Member Puzzello thanked everyone for coming to the Committee meeting. She stated that she would be calling another meeting later this month or the first part of October to see what changes have been made to better address the residents concerns. There being no further business to come before the Committee, Council Member Puzzello adjourned the meeting at 5:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Council Member Ann Puzzello, Chairperson Health and Public Safety Committee Health and Public Safety Committee Meeting of September 7,2004 Page 4