pages: CityCouncil/2020-06-16.pdf, 22
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CityCouncil | 2020-06-16 | 22 | perception of no accountability and the topic needs to be discussed with the input of the community with a focus on services; the community para-medicine program has had funding cut; expressed support for solutions, analysis and procedures; noted patience for the program is needed. Vice Mayor Knox White stated there have been questions about the budget; noted Council has already approved a budget for the Police Department and the proposed revision decreases the budget; stated not taking action results in the status quo moving forward; it is important to remember Mr. Watkins was not in need of social services or help; the incident was handled incorrectly the moment the call was made; the City has already removed Resource Officers from schools and the matter is not included in the proposed budget; expressed concern for finding ways which both honor the budget as well as the needs expressed by public comment; reducing a budget by a set number without change does not address impacts; noted Council may not discuss ideas prior to meetings due to the Brown Act and the Sunshine Ordinance; stated the motion is an attempt to answer what has been asked by the community yet also created space for Council's voice; the special meeting scheduled for tomorrow will be stilted due to the agenda; the motion proposes another special meeting in one week to allow Council to have a broader discussion; Council is making a commitment to meet, set timelines, and hold off on vacancies in order to meet needs as best as possible; Council sets policy direction not only for policing, but the entire City; the community needs to be a part of the input process as Council responds; expressed support for the response of Councilmembers and for anti-racism training. Councilmember Daysog stated the budget is important and reflects the values of the community; Council discussions are related to tragedies stemming from Minneapolis, Atlanta, and Alameda; stated democracy in action is seeing people mobilizing around specific agendas locally and nationally; people power is important to make change; effective democracy occurs through a republic; Council must speak truthfully, candidly, and honestly; stated that he does not support a reduction of the Police budget by 40%; expressed support for improving funding toward mental health in a more substantial way and for looking at nearby cities models; questioned whether the City is in the financial position for a Public Health Department (PHD); stated a local government nearby has a PHD; noted Oakland has a standalone department dedicated to race inequity which ensures policies are reviewed for equity and also has a department of human services; expressed support for APD keeping the armored vehicle; stated the issue of Police militarization is a real issue and a policy should be implemented to check the equipment purchases and uses; the Police force is a civilian force, not a para-military force; there are other matters which can improve the Police force under the budget; a large amount of the budget is spent on salary; outlined the concept of "crowding out;" stated less money is available for other departments; noted there has been an increase to Police and Fire budgets over time, but not an increase to other departments; stated Council needs to look at how the budget is apportioned; the City is spending too much on the Police Department; new revenues should be put toward areas not receiving money; outlined Police and Fire labor agreements; stated democracy takes hold in City Hall through Councilmembers in order to make change; Councilmembers must ensure the Regular Meeting Alameda City Council June 16, 2020 20 | CityCouncil/2020-06-16.pdf |