March 28, 2023 Meeting
MINUTES OF THE
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2023
A meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri was held on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, in the Community Room at Police Headquarters, 1125 Locust Street, Kansas City.
PRESENT:
Commissioner Mark Tolbert, President
Commissioner Cathy Dean, Vice President
Commissioner Dawn Cramer, Member
Mayor Quinton Lucas, Member
Mr. David Kenner, Secretary/Attorney
Stacey Graves, Chief of Police
This meeting was called to order at 9:34 a.m. by Commissioner Tolbert. Civilian Robert Blehm led the Pledge of Allegiance. Chaplain Tony Johnson provided the invocation.
- Awards and Commendations. The Certificates of Appreciation were presented to Lifegate Church, Pastor Brian Gallardo, Matthew Wurtz, Alex Wilder, Pastor Jillian Gallardo, Justine Usry, Jenae Carr, and DeRon Carr, for their outstanding assistance to the KCPD on February 28, 2023. On that day, three members of KCPD’s Tactical Response Team were assisting a fellow law enforcement agency execute a search warrant when they were shot in the line of duty. Each member suffered serious injuries and are currently recovering and rehabilitating.
This shooting prompted a standoff that would last almost 24 hours - through the night and into most of the next day – in the parking lot of the Lifegate Church. Members of the church were incredibly gracious and helpful to all Department members on site, as well as the other law enforcement agencies assisting KCPD. Throughout the entire standoff, this group opened their doors to law enforcement, providing snacks, drinks, coffee, and shelter for all. When this tense situation ended, church members invited KCPD back and prayed for Department members.
- Guest Presentation. Police Foundation President Tye Grant provided an update on the Annual A-Call-for-Backup Event that was held on February 24, 2022. The event raised $1,822,980.00; this was an eight percent increase from last year’s event. This funding is used to assist the Department with operations expenses, such as DNA equipment for the Crime Lab, Crime Scene drones, cameras and automated license plate readers, other technology and software expenses, and a fund for social workers to assist families in need. This year’s Bid-for-Backup will fund a new Bomb & Arson vehicle. Mr. Grant thanked the support from the community on making this a successful event. Chief Graves and the Board thanked Mr. Grant and the Police Foundation for all they do for the Department.
Mr. Grant spoke about two new canines that the Police Foundation funded. These dogs will assist with getting drugs off of the streets, creating a safer community. Anyone interested in supporting the Police Foundation of Kansas City can find more information at https://policefoundationkc.org/.
- City Council Update. Councilman Kevin O’Neill, 1st District At-Large, presented on behalf of the City Council. Councilman O’Neill spoke about his four years on the Council, and how relations between the Board and Council are beginning to improve. He spoke about monthly meetings that are occurring between him, Councilwoman Ryana Parks-Shaw, Commissioner Tolbert, and Commissioner Dean. He advised that the meetings have been productive, and they have all learned a lot. He spoke about the common goals between the Board and City Council, and encouraged continued communications. He also thanked the Department’s allocation of a City Council Liaison and social workers.
Councilman O’Neill spoke about the need for increased officers in the City, and specifically in the Northland. He commended Chief Graves for reallocating 15 officers to the Northland. Councilman O’Neill offered condolences for the loss of Officer James Muhlbauer and K9 Champ. The Board thanked Councilman O’Neill for his support and collaboration, and encouraged additional conversations for a safer Kansas City.
- Investigations Bureau. Deputy Chief Luis Ortiz provided an update on monthly crime statistics. He advised that to-date in 2023, there have been 39 homicides, compared to 33 at this same time in 2022; the five-year average of homicides for this same time period is 34. The Department has cleared 12 homicides this year and three additional cases from previous years, totaling 15 homicides cleared to-date 2023.
Deputy Chief Ortiz advised that there are currently 27 pending homicide cases. Of those 27, eight are waiting on a charging decision by the Prosecutor’s Office, and the remaining 19 are in various stages of the investigative process. Deputy Chief Ortiz advised that detectives will meet with the Prosecutor’s Office on Friday to discuss those eight pending cases.
Deputy Chief Ortiz advised there have been 105 non-fatal shootings year-to-date, compared to 92 for this same time period in 2022; 27 non-fatal shootings have occurred this month. There were 35 non-fatal shootings in February 2023, compared to 21 in February 2022. He noted that 26 of the February non-fatal shooting victims have been cooperative with the investigation. Deputy Chief Ortiz presented statistics on suspect and victim characteristics for the month of January 2023.
Commissioner Cramer referenced a statement made by Former United States Attorney General Barr, advising that 99 percent of violent crime is committed by 19 percent of the community. Deputy Chief Ortiz advised that he believes that statement is accurate. The Department studies repeat offenders, locations, and other patterns. The Board discussed the need for a jail to house repeat offenders. Platte County is interested in working with the City to identify a jail solution. The City continues to work towards a solution.
In response to a question, Deputy Chief Ortiz spoke about the risk for retaliation and victim cooperation. He advised that officers and detectives make multiple contacts with the victims, in an attempt to get them to cooperate in the investigation. Often times, the reason victims don’t cooperate is because they know the suspect and fear retaliation.
Deputy Chief Ortiz advised that the Department recovered 139 firearms in February 2023, compared to 157 in February 2022. The five-year average of recovered firearms for the month of February is 161. The Department has recovered 334 firearms year-to-date 2023.
Deputy Chief Ortiz spoke about cases submitted for prosecution. In February 2023, there were 234 cases submitted for prosecution; there were 196 cases submitted to Jackson County, 22 to Clay County, and 16 to Platte County. Deputy Chief Ortiz reported that 70 of those cases were filed, and 90 cases were declined. A majority of the declinations were due to insufficient evidence and prosecutor discretion.
- Patrol Bureau. Deputy Chief Joseph Mabin presented monthly statistics for the Patrol Bureau. Deputy Chief Mabin advised that the median response time for Priority 10 calls for the month of February was 7.55 minutes; the Department’s Priority 10 (also known as Priority 1) response time goal is 7.50 minutes. The Priority 20 (also known as Priority 2) response time for the month of February was 9.43; the Department’s Priority 20 response time goal is 9.00 minutes. The response time is the amount of time from when the call is created until an officer arrives on scene.
Deputy Chief Mabin presented the Traffic Summary for February 2023. He advised that there were 1,428 crashes in February 2023, compared to 1,143 in February 2022. There have been 2,799 crashes year-to-date 2023, compared to 2,339 for this same time period in 2022. There have been 14 traffic fatalities to-date 2023, compared to 29 at this same time last year.
Chief Graves spoke about youth violence. The Department is working with its partners and the community to reduce youth violence. A group violence initiative will begin in April 2023. Mayor Lucas spoke about social media and how it fuels disagreements. Chief Graves believes social media plays a major part in youth violence.
Supervisor Tamara McIntosh provided an overview of the Social Services Unit. She advised that the Social Services Unit receives referrals from patrol officers when a need for resources is identified. Social workers respond to calls for service, and often respond for follow-up visits to provide resources to community members in need. Supervisor McIntosh spoke about different calls and visits that Department social workers are responsible for, and got emotional talking about her passion to help those who need it most.
Commissioner Tolbert spoke about the traumatic events that Department members are exposed to on a daily basis, and reminded of the importance of employee wellness checks. He thanked the social workers for all they do in the community.
Major Kari Thompson highlighted the Patrol Bureau Member Showcase of the Month, Ms. Annette Green. Ms. Green is a 24-year veteran of the KCPD, currently serving as the Administrative Assistant at the Metro Patrol Division. Ms. Green is also a 23-year veteran of KCATA, where she drives City buses. Ms. Green is a mother and grandmother. Major Thompson advised that Ms. Green does a remarkable job, and the KCPD values her long-time service.
Deputy Chief Mabin commended the work done by the Community Engagement Division. Commissioner Cramer requested that the Department Social Service Unit partner with Newhouse KC, a safe housing resource for domestic violence victims. The Community Engagement Division will reach out to Newhouse KC to get connected.
- Administration Bureau. Deputy Chief Doug Niemeier provided an update on Department staffing. He advised that as of February 28, 2023, Department strength was 1,656. For this time period, there were 1,111 sworn law enforcement personnel, 33 recruits, 508 career civilians, and four Board members. There are currently 217 total vacancies. He advised that in the past month, the Department hired 13 recruits, and there are 14 additional pending offers. The Department has also hired five lateral officers, two re-hires, and 11 applicants are in various stages of the hiring process. The next two Academy classes will begin on April 24, 2023, and July 23, 2023.
Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that the Department has current vacancies for Detention Facility Officers. This position is for 18+ years of age. More information can be found at https://careers.kcpd.org.
Deputy Chief Niemeier highlighted the Employment Unit and the Wellness Unit for their tireless work this past month. He spoke of the improvements made to the hiring process this past month, and believes they will continue to be beneficial for the Department. He also advised that the Department has seen a great interest in the summer internship program.
Commissioner Cramer advised that she recently attended vehicle pursuit training at the Academy and learned a lot. Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that the 176th Entrant Officer Class will graduate on May 4, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. in the Regional Police Academy Auditorium. He advised that the next Women’s Personal Safety and Self-Defense Class will occur on May 13, 2023, at the Academy. The Department offers these classes monthly at the Academy and South Patrol Division. The Department is working on dates for co-ed and LGBTQ+ self-defense classes.
Commissioner Cramer spoke about a retention program at the Phoenix, Arizona Police Department. She advised that Phoenix PD is re-hiring retirees on contract, and paying them through a deferred compensation plan instead of their pension. This has helped retention for their Department. She recommended that the Department look into a similar program. Deputy Chief Niemeier advised that the Department has created a new Retention Committee that will research programs, such as the one in Phoenix.
- Executive Services Bureau. Deputy Chief Derek McCollum presented the following items for Board approval:
- Budget Transfers for Fiscal Year 2022-23. A memorandum dated March 9, 2023, was presented recommending approval of budget transfers. This transfer will affect the General Fund, Police Drug Enforcement Fund, Police Grants Fund, and the Grants Special Revenue Fund.
Mayor Lucas recommended holding all settlements until next budget year, instead of transferring money around now to cover expenses. Commissioner Dean advised that the Department needs all of the money in next year’s budget for other items already budgeted for. Deputy Chief McCollum advised that the Department has bills due now, and they are non-deferrable.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dean, with a second by Commissioner Cramer, to approve the budget transfers as presented. The vote was 3-1 in favor, with Mayor Lucas voting Nay.
- Adjustments to Special Revenue Accounts for Fiscal Year 2022-23. A memorandum dated March 7, 2023, was presented to recommend approval of an adjustment in the amount of $12,926.00, from the Minor Equipment Fund to the Motor Vehicles Fund. This adjustment will allow for vehicle purchases.
A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Dean, to approve the adjustments to Special Revenue Accounts, as presented. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
- Adjustments to Special Revenue Accounts for Fiscal Year 2022-23. A memorandum dated March 7, 2023, was presented to recommend approval of an adjustment in the amount of $8,480.00, from the Motors Vehicle Fund to the Computer Equipment Fund. This adjustment will cover purchases related to the DARE.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dean, with a second by Commissioner Cramer, to approve the adjustments to Special Revenue Accounts, as presented. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
- Bid No. 2021-7, Ammunition/Munitions. A memorandum dated March 8, 2023, was presented to recommend approval of a one-year renewal with Gulf States, for ammunition and munitions, at an anticipated expenditure of $1,020,631.00. This will be the first of three optional one-year renewal periods.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dean, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the one-year renewal with Gulf States, for ammunition and munitions, at an anticipated expenditure of $1,020,631.00. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
- Bid No. 2023-6, Ford Parts and Accessories. A memorandum dated March 6, 2023, was presented to recommend approval of a one-year contract with Thoroughbred Ford, for vehicle parts and accessories, at an anticipated expenditure of $180,000.00. This will be the first of two optional one-year renewal periods. Thoroughbred Ford has agreed to the renewal with no price increase from last year.
Mayor Lucas commended the Department for utilizing a local business to fulfill this need.
A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Dean, to approve the one-year renewal with Thoroughbred Ford, for vehicle parts and accessories, at an anticipated expenditure of $180,000.00. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
- Wireless Services – NASPO. A memorandum dated March 9, 2023, was presented to recommend the renewal of the Department’s wireless service with Verizon Wireless, AT&T, and T-Mobile based on the National Association of State Procurement Officers (NASPO) contract, at an anticipated expenditure of $398,488.20. The contract period is April 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024.
A motion was made by Mayor Lucas, with a second by Commissioner Dean, to approve the one-year NASPO contract, for the Department’s wireless service, at an anticipated expenditure of $398,488.20. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
Deputy Chief McCollum provided an update on the Communications Unit. He advised that Communications Unit is currently staffed with 36 dispatchers and 34 call takers; the Unit currently has 27 vacancies. The average wait time for 911 calls during the month of February was 27, compared to 20 seconds during this same time period in 2022. The national standard goal is a 15 second wait time on 90 percent of calls.
Deputy Chief McCollum advised that hiring practices have improved, and the Department has begun onboarding applicants as soon as possible, regardless of training dates. Getting people in the door to observe in the Unit, or assist in other areas until training classes are available, is proving to be beneficial for the Department and applicants. There are currently 11 people in various stages of the hiring process, and two conditional offers have been extended.
Deputy Chief McCollum advised that the Department attended the Full Employment Council Job Fair on March 1, 2023. During this event, the Department had 17 contacts; however, the Department has not seen any applications from the event.
Deputy Chief McCollum provided an update on the Fiscal Year 2023-24 Budget. The Department submitted a budget request totaling $250.9 million. After review and changes made by the City Manager’s Office, a budget request of $237.3 million was presented to City Council. City Council appropriated $238.4 million to the Department’s Fiscal Year 2023-24 Budget. This budget will be presented for approval at next month’s Board meeting.
Deputy Chief McCollum advised that the Department remains committed to providing employee salary increases and Academy classes. Also, in accordance with the City’s commitment, the Department is increasing the minimum wage rate to $17.36/hour. Deputy Chief McCollum advised that this change will effect multiple professional staff positions.
The Board inquired why the Department’s full budget request was not submitted to the City Council. Mayor Lucas advised that this is normal practice, and the City Manager’s Office regularly makes budget proposals to the City Council for each City Department. Commissioner Dean advised that many City Council members weren’t even aware that they were not reviewing the Department’s full request. An ongoing debate exists between the Department and City regarding what constitutes 25 percent of the City’s General Fund. Commissioner Cramer recommended that the Board meet with City Council to discuss the budget processes, so that everyone gains a better understanding.
Mayor Lucas inquired about money identified within the Liability Self-Retention Fund. Deputy Chief McCollum advised that the Department has not yet paid a previously approved settlement. The legal settlement and an increase in workers’ compensation settlements will deplete the excess of funds within the Liability Self-Retention fund. Third Quarter projections show the Department in a $200,000 deficit, due to large settlements and overtime increases related to the Super Bowl activities. The Department has made a formal request to the City for reimbursement for Super Bowl related expenses. Commissioner Cramer noted that the NFL Draft in April will impact the Fiscal 2023-24 Budget.
- Chief’s Executive Officer. Deputy Chief Steven Young advised that Project #1358, Juvenile Procedures, will be held until next month.
- Office of General Counsel. Interim General Counsel Jenny Atterbury presented the following Private Officer Licensing Unit recommendations:
- Private Officer License Revocation: Joseph J. Rocheleau. A memorandum dated March 13, 2023, was presented recommending the revocation of the unarmed private security license of Joseph J. Rocheleau. The basis for the revocation is outlined in Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.060(8)(I), which stipulates, “the chief of police or his/her designee may impose a fine, order probation, order a suspension, or revoke a license of any company granted under Section 84.720 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section (10) of this rule, when there exists information that the licensee, or if the licensee if an organization, any of its officers, directors, partners, or associates has – (I) provided other facts or actions which demonstrate that the applicant is unsuitable or ineligible to continue to hold a license.” On February 3, 2023, the Private Officers Licensing Unit received information from KCPD detectives, advising that Mr. Rocheleau was the subject of an investigation for actions during his private officer employment.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dean, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to uphold the decision of the Private Officers Licensing Unit to revoke the unarmed private security license of Joseph J. Rocheleau. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
- Private Officer License Denial: DaJanae L. Patterson. A memorandum dated March 13, 2023, was presented recommending the denial of the unarmed private security license of DaJanae L. Patterson. The basis for the denial is outlined in the Title 17 of the Code of State Regulations Section 10-2.050(3)(H), which stipulates in part, “additionally, each applicant applying for a license under these provisions must meet these standards. The applicant must be of good moral character by having no felony convictions, misdemeanor convictions, or city ordinance convictions, which has an essential element of fraud, dishonesty, an act of violence, bribery, illegal drug use, sexual misconduct, and other similar acts constituting moral turpitude.” On May 17, 2022, Ms. Patterson was convicted of presenting false information to gain entry onto a gambling boat in Platte County Circuit Court (a misdemeanor). Ms. Patterson also failed to list this arrest and conviction on KCPD’s Form 5074 – Applicant Questionnaire.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dean, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to uphold the decision of the Private Officers Licensing Unit to deny the unarmed private security license of DaJanae L. Patterson. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
- Public Comments. Fred Gambino spoke about a recent violent crime spree in his neighborhood in the 300 Block of West Meyer Boulevard. He expressed concerns with the justice system, lack of police officers, and violence in the City. He urged the City to install cameras in his neighborhood.
Zach Beall echoed Mr. Gambino’s concerns and comments. Mr. Beall’s church is located in the same neighborhood as Mr. Gambino’s home. The area has seen an increase of crime and property damage. Mr. Beall believes that the City needs more resources for mental health and homelessness.
Alison Boteler, echoed Mr. Gambino’s and Mr. Beall’s comments and concerns. Ms. Boteler also resides in the 300 Block of West Meyer Boulevard, and is concerned about the uptick in crime in her neighborhood. She spoke about the history and beauty of the Brookside neighborhood, and the need to preserve it.
Clark Achelpohl spoke about the Police Score Card study, and provided input on how the Department could improve procedures to increase its rank in the study.
Bill Allen demanded that police officers follow the traffic laws that they are sworn to enforce.
Doug Kinney spoke about his positive experience attending the Citizens Police Academy (CPA). He inquired about a form that was in the CPA Handbook.
Steve Young urged the Board to take public comments seriously. He demanded an immediate investigation into the officers that arrested Mack Nelson.
Winifred Jamieson expressed frustration with public comments being last on the meeting agenda. Ms. Jamieson advised she was on-scene during the arrest of Mack Nelson, and demanded an immediate action into these officers’ actions.
Ron Hunt commended the Department for their work in the community, specifically the Community Engagement Division and Chief Graves’ leadership.
Commissioner Tolbert advised that he and Commissioner Dean recently met with Scott Myers and Stan Morgan at their request. Mr. Myers and Mr. Morgan advised that the conversation was productive, and they appreciated the opportunity to meet with the Board. They would like to continue dialogue with the Board in the future.
- Recap from Chief Stacey Graves. Chief Graves advised that it is her 103rd day as Chief of Police, and a lot has happened in Kansas City during this time. She advised that violent crime has remained at the top of her conversations, and the Department and its partners must move collectively towards a reduction. She advised that there have been multiple Department structure changes, including the reformation of the Missing Persons/Cold Case Unit on Sunday, April 16, 2023. Chief Graves remains committed to engaging with the community and Department employees.
- Mayor Quinton Lucas. Mayor Quinton thanked Mr. Kinney for his participation in the Citizens Police Academy, and believes the information included in the handbook speaks directly about community policing and the public’s duty to keep their neighborhoods safe. Mayor Lucas commended Chief Graves for her involvement in the community.
- Commissioner Dawn Cramer. Commissioner Cramer advised that the Board does take public comments and citizen concerns seriously. She reminded the audience that the Board can’t always speak publicly on matters, but they do hear the concerns and have conversations about them. She stated that we are all on the same team, everyone wants a safer community, and we have to stop pointing fingers and work together to accomplish that.
- Commissioner Cathy Dean. Commissioner Dean advised that public comments are at the end of the meeting, just like City Council meetings, so that people can gain insight about what the Department is doing. She advised that multiple times, people’s questions have been answered during the meeting, and therefore they realized that they didn’t need to provide public comment. Commissioner Dean agreed with Mr. Allen that officers should not speed through the City. She encouraged everyone to wear their seatbelts. In response to Mr. Achelpohl’s comment, she advised that the Department frequently looks to other police departments for ideas and strategies. Commissioner Dean commended the Department for their willingness for innovation and change to do better.
- Commissioner Mark Tolbert. Commissioner Tolbert congratulated Chief Graves on her 103rd day, and commended her leadership during this period. He advised that the police department cannot solve crime by themselves, and needs community support. He believes reinstituting the Neighborhood Watch program could bring positive results to the City. He spoke about automated license plate readers and cameras, and believes these should be placed in all areas of the City, to avoid over-policing in certain areas.
- Approval of Minutes. A motion was made by Commissioner Dean, with a second by Mayor Lucas, to approve the open session minutes from the Board meeting on February 28, 2023. The vote was 4-0 in favor.
- Scheduled meetings. The Board of Police Commissioners of Kansas City, Missouri has scheduled the following meetings:
Board Disciplinary Hearings:
BOPC 21-02
THIS MEETING HAS BEEN CONTINUED FROM ITS CURRENT SETTING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2023, AND WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR A FUTURE DATE TO BE DETERMINED BY THE BOARD.
BOPC 23-03
THIS MEETING HAS BEEN CONTINUED FROM ITS CURRENT SETTING OF MARCH 3, 2023, AND WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR A FUTURE DATE TO BE DETERMINED BY THE BOARD.
*Discipline hearings are closed under Section 590.502.3(6) of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.
Regular Meetings:
April 25, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
May 23, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
June 27, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
July 25, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
August 22, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
September 26, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
October 10, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
November 14, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
December 12, 2023, 9:30 a.m., at KCPD Headquarters, Community Room, 1125 Locust, Kansas City.
A motion was made by Commissioner Dean, with a second by Mayor Lucas, and by vote indicated below, to go into closed session at 12:39 p.m., as provided in the following resolution. Following a roll call, the vote was 4-0 in favor.
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, notice of the board meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners was given on May 27, 2022, and
WHEREAS, said notice indicated that the Board of Police Commissioners might go into closed session during said meeting, and
WHEREAS, notice of the closed meeting follows the guidelines of Section 610.020 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Police Commissioners go into closed session during the meeting being held on Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at KCPD Headquarters, 1125 Locust Street, Kansas City, for the purpose of discussing personnel matters, labor negotiations, and litigation matters.
The following Commissioners were present and voted to go into closed session as follows:
Commissioner Dawn Cramer - Aye
Commissioner Cathy Dean - Aye
Commissioner Mark Tolbert - Aye
Mayor Quinton Lucas - Aye
There being a quorum present and the question of holding a closed session having received an affirmative public vote of at least three (3) members, a closed meeting was held as set forth above.
Below are the votes from the closed session of the Board of Police Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, March 28, 2023:
The Board went into closed session at 12:52 p.m.
1) Following a motion by Commissioner Dean, and a second by Mayor Lucas, the Board voted to hire an outside law firm to assist with the defense of Ricky Kidd v. Board of Police Commissioners, et al. The vote was 4-0 in favor. Following polling, Commissioner Tolbert voted Aye, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.
2) Following a motion by Mayor Lucas and a second by Commissioner Dean, the Board voted to approve the application for continued employment of Police Officer Benjamin Dougherty. The vote was 4-0 in favor. Following polling, Commissioner Tolbert voted Aye, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.
3) Following a motion by Commissioner Dean and a second by Commissioner Cramer, the Board voted to approve the minutes of the closed Board meeting on February 28, 2023. The vote was 4-0 in favor. Following polling, Commissioner Tolbert voted Aye, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.
4) Following a motion by Commissioner Dean and a second by Mayor Lucas, the Board voted to come out of closed session and adjourn. The vote was 4-0 in favor. Following polling, Commissioner Tolbert voted Aye, Commissioner Dean voted Aye, Commissioner Cramer voted Aye, and Mayor Lucas voted Aye.
The Board adjourned at 2:01 p.m.