pages: CityCouncil/2022-04-19.pdf, 14
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2022-04-19 | 14 | Alameda. Expressed support for the program, and its continuance and evolution; stated anything worth doing takes work and time; it is important to center on the program goals and objectives; the goals and objectives do not seem to be consistent with what is occurring on calls; urged the continuance of the program being an alternative to APD: Jackie Zipkin, Alameda. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she is proud of the work that has been done; the program is off to a promising start; changes and modifications are likely needed; the program has been making a positive difference in a number of lives; other communities are reaching out to Alameda and AFD to find out how to provide a similar program; expressed support for more similar programs starting up throughout the State; stated there is no shame in having a mental health crisis; expressed support for working on transitional housing since it relates to mental health; stated that it is difficult for most to imagine the circumstances of homelessness and many are close to housing insecurity. Councilmember Knox White stated that staff is looking for Council approval to extend the pilot program to June 2023. Councilmember Knox White moved approval of authorizing extension of the program. Vice Mayor Vella seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Knox White stated the program roll out has been successful; Alameda County is looking at how the program can be more of a model for their Community Assessment and Transport Team (CATT) program as a possible alternative; expressed concern over the CARE team objectives; stated the objective has been to provide an alternative to armed involvement in response to mental health; there are reasons why a single CARE team might not be able to address every call; data should be collected on the number calls are received that should be taken by the CARE team, but lacked resources; there are many reasons for APD to go along on calls during the CARE pilot responses; the more feedback that can be received, such as responding to CARE team calls without lights, is helpful; there are benefits to non-CARE team calls when APD Officers arrive and assess that the CARE team or AFS is needed; anything worth doing is worth refining in order to get better; the program will only get better thanks to all partners involved. Councilmember Daysog stated the early success of the CARE program shows that the City is succeeding in reforming policing in Alameda; future generations of Alamedans will see adoption of the CARE program as one of the biggest and best decisions made by a City Council; he anticipates the future returns will only get better. Vice Mayor Vella stated getting the CARE program off the ground with little to build from could be a daunting task; program staff have stepped up to the task; she is ready to support the matter; expressed support for the City seeing the pilot through; stated that she supports the City helping others find better solutions; Alameda is the right size city to launch this type of program and has many invested community members; people in the program are learning ways to improve and build upon what exists every day; the responsibility is taken seriously; she is concerned about ensure that program staff are provided support; trauma is experienced by first responders; policies should reflect that responders are cared for and provided time off when needed; expressed support for addressing worker's compensation in a meaningful way; Regular Meeting Alameda City Council April 19, 2022 12 | CityCouncil/2022-04-19.pdf |