10A - 8-16-16 MINUTES - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

made in the past; read portion of an email from POA President to several business members; Department led by Police Chief who has provided excellent leadership and training opportunities; reported on City's reduced crime according to Federal Bureau of Investigation statistics; important to have facts; strong supporter of law enforcement officers; look forward to upcoming labor negotiations. Councilmember Amezcua, reported that City graduating 7 new officers from the Police Academy, 11 other various classes in the Academy, 12 in field training and 4 lateral transferring to City; referred to email sent by POA concerned with statistics cited; does not support item. Councilmember Benavides, asked that if there were time to discuss incentives, which when is it appropriate time. City Manager Cavazos, indicated that best time is during collective bargaining period and in context with the budget; City has reserves to be used for emergencies and increases need to be sustainable; important to consider all bargaining groups. Councilmember Benavides, supports law enforcement; look forward to amicable relationships and able to provide benefit packages that all deserve. Mayor Pro Tern Sarmiento, wish that author of item was present to discuss; concerned with crime rate and information presented; have enjoyed a congenial relationship with POA in the past; recognizes sacrifice by law enforcement officers; request that different elements be divided and budget impact provided. City Manager Cavazos, stated that 5% of shift differential and longevity amount to about $3 million in reoccurring costs; funds not in general fund and would have to come out of reserve funds; City Council may need to revisit the reserve policy. Mayor Pro Tem Sarmiento, mentioned that thresholds set in reserve policy; defer to members of the Public Safety Council Committee to advocate for grant funding. City Attorney Carvalho, noted that reserve policy contains thresholds in terms of dollar amounts as well as procedures to use reserve funds. City Manager Cavazos, City has received COPS grant funds 2 years in a row and UASI funding which is the highest increase in the Nation; have added 44 officers since 2012. Mayor Pro Tern Sarmiento, City has renewed commitment to augment number of officers; would like to break up the shift differential amount to be consistent with other bargaining groups; supports hiring of new officers to address delayed request for service calls. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 17 AUGUST 16, 2016 1 0A -17