pages: CityCouncil/2021-03-16.pdf, 19
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CityCouncil | 2021-03-16 | 19 | Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she would like to see an analysis of how much money the City has paid for in relation to staff hours and the rate of pay for Block by Block street staffing; expressed concern about the amount being paid to on-location staff; stated that she would like research on the program rate of pay; noted there are limited opportunities for bi-annual de-escalation trainings; expressed support for training on other matters; stated Police are professionals and should be treated as such. Vice Mayor Vella stated that she would like to consider where the Analyst position would be housed; good auditing includes having things exist outside of the direct management structure; questioned whether the position could fall under the City Manager's Office and whether an audit will look at feedback coming in to create a system on a number of issues, not limited to APD, but all City services; expressed support for not just looking at housing matters solely within APD, UBI and access to healthcare; stated a number of cities support Cal Care, a Statewide single payer system, which is part of Assembly Bill (AB) 1400; as the City is having a discussion on underlying issues and access, Council can give staff direction to add support for AB 1400 or add it to the legislative priorities; noted by taking the stance that healthcare is a human right and looking into single payer access, the City can eliminate a lot of concerning funding issues. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the Steering Committee came out with the recommendation for the City to continue to hire up to the 88 sworn Officers; inquired the role of the new Police Chief in the process; questioned whether the role will inherit tasks put in place or provide input. The City Manager responded based on the interviews conducted and the timeline, a new Police Chief will arrive sometime in May; stated staff will likely be implementing certain parts of the Steering Committee's recommendations and the Police Chief will be involved with implementation, as well as providing input or recommendations. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether there is anything to add to the funding and financing of some of the matters currently being discussed. The City Manager responded if Council provides a few priorities, such as addressing mental health through a different form of services, a plan or strategy can be brought back with other priorities within six weeks and can include financing options. Councilmember Knox White stated the City should look into how to utilize the Community Paramedicine program to support the development of a CAHOOTS type model; internal resources have been providing good services and should be considered; expressed support for the use of a Block by Block or a similar program; noted a street ambassador program can be considered to address homeless issues within business districts; expressed support for creating buckets and space for an ambassador and homeless programs in order to get to the end of Homeless Strategic Plan to ensure large, expensive programs are not being implemented without proper funding; noted economic development money for business districts can be spent on programs which Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 19 March 16, 2021 | CityCouncil/2021-03-16.pdf |