2020-10-16 Police Commission Regular Minutes

Home

Hawaii Police Commission Regular Session Minutes October 16, 2020 Page 2 In response to questions, AC O'Connor stated that with all the shutdowns, they have not seen an increase in use of drugs and alcohol. Vehicle safety checks ensures that the vehicle is working safely. Personnel Report: Major Jelsma reported having 73 sworn vacancies, but with those in recruit class, there are 38 vacancies. They ran a police officer recruitment in July: 456 applied, 275 took the written test, 159 passed, 94 passed the agility test, 92 are now in the recruitment pool. There are 10 radio dispatcher vacancies. In response to questions, Major Jelsma stated that police officers coming from the mainland have to start as a new recruit. Officers from another island could be put on an accelerated program. Chief Ferreira stated that they will put them through the beginning in order to validate their qualifications. Finance Report: Major Jelsma reported that for FYTD 9/30/20, their targeted expenditure was 29.17% with actual of 98.93%. Their fiscal year budget of $72,091,319 includes a 10% overall reduction. Chair Bertsch pointed out that they took a 10% budget reduction, and now they are being asked for an additional 5% reduction. Major Jelsma further reported that as long as they have vacancies, they will have overtime. The 911 fire & police dispatch center is moving along. The solicitation for bids began on Oct. 6, and they are meeting with interested parties. Commendations of Sworn and Civilian Employees: Deputy Chief Bugado reported receiving 22 commendations since the last police commission meeting. Officer Cory Gray was selected as the officer of the quarter by the Hawaii Island Security and Safety Professionals for his work in impaired driver enforcement. Officer Ryan Pagan was selected by the Aloha Exchange as officer of the month for September for his lifesaving efforts for a stabbing victim. Other Department Activities: Sergeant Travis Ing gave a video presentation of their bodyworn camera program. He stated that each camera cost about $500. The cost of storage is high, like a cell phone plan. Chief Ferreira stated that as technology improves, bells and whistles are being added. They have a 5 -year purchase contract and are responsible for all repairs. The money is in the service that will be provided to them. A sergeant and two IT personnel are working on the project. • Commissioner Springer expressed concern about traffic on Highway 130 and coming out of Shower Drive. Chief Ferreira stated that they will bring it up with the highways division.