2019.10.14 Public Safety Commission Packet

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Hollimon stated he was not a fan of four-way stops. He explained the speed limit on residential streets in Iowa, Wisconsin and North Dakota was 25 miles per hour. Director Schlichting reviewed the sign inventory with the Commission. He explained the City had a request previously for stop signs in this area which led to the installation of “Yield” signs. He discussed the traffic accidents that have occurred along this corridor in the past five years. He stated this was not a unique neighborhood but rather was typical to other neighborhoods in New Brighton. Kessler commented on how traffic sneaks through the City along 6th Street when other roadways were backed up. Hollimon reported he drove 6th Street last week and stated he had a hard time maintaining 30 miles per hour without keeping his foot on the brakes. Malone stated as a mom of young children she was concerned about pedestrian safety. She asked if this roadway was well lit and felt safe for walkers. Director Schlichting commented every intersection along this roadway had a street light. He commented how children would walk to school along this corridor. Hollimon questioned how this item would proceed. Director Schlichting reported he would be completing a study and would report back to the Commission with the findings. VI. Reports and Updates A. Allina Health – Dave Matteson Dave Mattson explained Allina Health has deployed five ambulances to the East Coast after hurricane Dorian hit. He commented these units have since been called back. He stated there has been a spike in heavy drug use in the community. He reported Southside Harm Reduction Services was working in Minneapolis to clean up hypodermic needles. He discussed the harm of vaping and how lungs were being impacted. He explained retired Public Safety Director Bob Jacobsen would be speaking to paramedics regarding stress and thoughts of suicide. He commented further on the mental health services available to EMS and first responders. B. Public Safety Update – Director Paetznick Director Paetznick discussed how the New Brighton Public Safety Department was working to take care of its law enforcement officers and their mental health. He explained the departments 30th officer would begin service on Tuesday, September 10th. He reviewed the crime stats for July noting there was a continuing trend that crime was on the decline while vehicle crashes were slightly higher. He commented school got off to a great start for the School Resource Officers and noted officers were working with Irondale High School given the ongoing construction occurring around this property. He thanked all who were involved in National Night Out and stated a final report was being worked on. He indicated the department would be hosting a Red Cross Blood Drive on Wednesday, September 11th from 12:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. He updated the Council on the tremendous success of Safety Camp.