WORKSHOP ITEM 2 Chris Olson, Safety Services Manager/Police Chief
Title
SLP SCHOOL DISTRICT LIAISON SERVICES
Background
On February 21, 2013 Police Chief Chris Olson and Spring Lake Park School District Superintendent Jeff Ronneberg made a Workshop presentation to the City Council regarding police liaison services in the Spring Lake Park School District at Westwood Middle School. On March 4, 2013, further information was given to the Council via memorandum clarifying some questions regarding costs and services.
Additional questions were brought forward regarding covering the City's costs for 2013 as well as questions regarding liaison services to the Anoka-Hennepin and Centennial School Districts.
With this liaison position not being a funded position for 2013, but with a goal of beginning liaison services at Westwood Middle School on/around September 1, 2013, the City of Blaine would be responsible for the costs from when the replacement officer starts (on/around June 1, 2013) until the start of the 2013/2014 school year; approximately three (3) months of wages and benefits and other hiring costs. Due to three vacant positions in the Police Department (all within various stages of being filled), the cost savings from these vacancies will cover those costs related to the unbudgeted amount for the liaison officer replacement.
Additionally, the Blaine Police Department has been supplying liaison services the Anoka-Hennepin and Centennial School Districts for a number of years. We operate on a yearly (school year) contract with each of these school districts. These contracts are updated yearly, recognizing wage increases, if applicable, based upon Labor Agreement changes. While the liaison officer is at the school, the school districts are responsible for all wages and benefits; the City is responsible for the times the officer is not at the school (summer break, other leave/training time, etc.). The City supplies the vehicle, uniform and police equipment. The school district is responsible for supplying an office, computer and other related items.
DISCUSSION POINTS:
· Review of budget items
· Review of current liaison services
· Presentation by Chief Olson