pages: CityCouncil/2019-12-03.pdf, 6
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CityCouncil | 2019-12-03 | 6 | Councilmember Oddie inquired whether any incentives, aside from the homeowner incentive, have been omitted in comparing other programs. The Police Chief responded in the negative; stated the probationary period and mortgage assistance are the focus; Alameda offers retiree medical benefits and other jurisdictions do not; the goal is to build up the incentives. Councilmember Oddie inquired whether staff must be employed for five years in order to qualify for the existing medical incentives, to which the Police Chief responded in the affirmative. Discussed the effects of Police Department cuts on the Downtown Business Association; expressed support for recruitment efforts to hire qualified personnel: Janet Magleby, Downtown Alameda Business Association. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed a meeting with the Downtown Business Association; stated the Police Chief and Human Resources Director have been working diligently; there has been an increase in crime within the business districts including vehicle break-ins; the Homelessness Reach-Out Team is highly trained in working with those who are unsheltered; expressed concern for Officers working outside of their job description and overtime work; expressed support for the proposed policy. Councilmember Oddie stated that he requested ideas be brought forth by the City Manager to Police recruitments; expressed support for the effective utilization of the City's limited resources; outlined his recent experience with a vehicle collision and the rapid response of the Alameda Police Department; stated Alameda is the best place to live; the Police Chief should request additional funding from Council should there be a need; expressed support for the proposed policy. Councilmember Vella expressed support for the policy; expressed concern over retaining officers; expressed support for ensuring current Officers are sufficiently incentivized to remain with the City; stated not all departments experience the unique problem of being understaffed for an extended period of time; expressed concern about potential burnout of existing officers should the problem of being understaffed not be resolved in a timely manner; stated solutions will need to be creative; the focus should be centered on retention; expressed support for increasing the referral incentive by an additional $1,000; stated retention is needed just as much as recruitment. Vice Mayor Knox White discussed a meeting with the Police Chief related to general staffing needs for the department; expressed support for the policy. Councilmember Daysog expressed support for the Alameda Police Department; stated the City is a very safe place; should modifications to the policy be needed, those modifications should be made; expressed support for the implementation of the policy. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council December 3, 2019 4 | CityCouncil/2019-12-03.pdf |