2020.07.13 Public Safety Commission Packet

Home Browse Search

the five stakeholder groups can assist with implementing the task force's recommendations. The importance of training and transparency with the public was discussed. He thanked the City Council for properly funding and supporting the Public Safety Department. Director Paetznick commented on the importance of the department listening to the community at this time and encouraged the public to submit comments or questions to the Public Safety Department on the City's website. He reviewed the Listen page on the City's website and noted a great deal of policing information was available on this page. Discussion included: • Details surrounding 2020 traffic stops was discussed and it was noted traffic stops for 2020 would be lower than 2019 due to COVID-19. • The differences between a Public Safety Department versus a separate Police Department and Fire Department was discussed. • The Commission suggested the wording and languages being used for 21St Century Policing be reduced to more actionable terms for ease of use. • How the department responds to a crisis involving mental health issues. • The Commission requested resources for parents and families be added to the City's website. • The Commission appreciated the healthy relationships that have been created within the Public Safety Department. • The Commission thanked Director Paetznick for his detailed report and for the detailed information that have been made to the City's website. B. New Business — Selection of Chair and Vice Chair Director Paetznick requested the Commission select a Chair and Vice Chair to serve through April of 2021. Motion by Boyd, seconded by Wakai to elect Geoff Hollimon Chair of the Public Safety Commission. A roll call vote was taken. Motion carried 8-0. Motion by Boyd, seconded by Wakai to elect Karen Wagner Vice Chair of the Public Safety Commission. A roll call vote was taken. Motion carried 8-0. VI. Reports and Updates A. Allina Health — Dave Matteson Dave Mattson provided the Commission with an update on COVID and how it was impacting how EMS services are being provided. He discussed the new ambulances that had been purchased by Allina. He stated EMS staff had enough PPE at this time. He reported at this time the population that has been most greatly impacted by COVID has been the elderly living in senior facilities. He thanked the dispatch centers for properly informing his staff on how to Rrepare for calls. He commented a surge in COVID was expected to occur around July 15t . He was pleased by the amount of COVID tests that were available. He then reviewed how the calls for service and response times have been impacted over the past four months. He discussed how challenging the situation was in Minneapolis given the size of the crowds and the numerous injuries that occurred. He noted multiple strike teams were put in