2014-006 - Santa Ana General Plan Housing Element and Public Safety Element Updates

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PUBLIC SAFETY ELEMENT This goal can be made operational through assessment of acceptable levels of risk for fire, flood, civil disorder, incidence of crime, and other natural and man - induced potential safety hazards in the City, identification of ways risk can be reduced or avoided, and establishment of policies which will result in achievement of acceptable levels of risk. Airport safety related guidance and policies may be found in the City's General Plan Airport Land Use Environs Element. PLANNING FACTORS The ability of the City to meet public safety goals is influenced by its present risk management capacities, both in terms of needed physical plant and personnel. Crime Management and Protection The City's central police station is located in Civic Center. Built in 1997, the four - level facility meets the administrative space requirements for 566 + employees. The existing police administration facility promotes internal efficiency and takes advantage of the proximity of Courts, County Jail and other government facilities. In addition, the police department maintains two Public Safety Satellite Offices or communications points in the community rather than traditional precinct stations. The increased use of non -sworn personnel in positions in which the training and skills of sworn personnel are not critical can measurably increase efficiency of the Department's resources. Continuing the current emphasis on increased citizen involvement, through "Community Oriented Policing" programs and other outreach activities, presents a significant opportunity to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of crime prevention programs. Fire Safety Fires in residential, commercial and industrial structures is responsible for substantial damage each year. The risk of property damage and personal injury from fire can be reduced through a combination of fire prevention measures and fire suppression. Fire prevention is obtained through building code restrictions on the use of flammable materials, fire resistance of building construction techniques and materials, installation of fire alarm and suppression systems, and community education. These measures impose costs on property owners and tenants through inspection fees. Property maintenance standards including removal of excessive vegetation and standards for storage and use of flammable materials also are appropriate fire prevention measures requiring modest inspection costs. Community education plays a primary role in providing fire and life safety messages to the public. CITY OF SANTA ANA GENERAL PLAN ��_ �1/ \ -)