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The Police Commission Minutes April 20, 2005 MEETING MINUTES Guilford Police Headquarters 5:30 P.M. Present:  Commissioner Members: Chairwoman Carlson Commissioner Barrett Commissioner Cole Commissioner Dostert Departmental Members: Chief Thomas A. Terribile Deputy Chief Jeffrey C.Hutchinson Officer Anthony Mastriano Officer Robert Dube' Others: Ms. Linda Bouchard Mr. Steven Heinz(Highwoods Drive/ entered at 6:30 P.M.) Meeting was called to order by Chairwoman Carlson at 5:31 P.M. 1. Approval of prior meeting minutes      Motion:     Motion made by Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Dostert to approve the meeting minutes of March 16, 2005 with corrections on page 2. Vote: In favor: Chairwoman Carlson, Commissioners Barrett, Cole, and Dostert. Opposed: None Abstained: None Motion:     Motion made by Commissioner Barrett, seconded by Commissioner Cole to approve the minutes of special meeting held on April 4, 2005 as presented. Vote: In favor: Chairwoman Carlson, Commissioners Barrett, Cole, and Dostert. Opposed: None Abstained: None 2. Public Petition/Commentary None 3. Traffic 3.1. Whitfield Street/ Painting A discussion took place regarding the possibility of painting the curbs yellow on Whitfield Street(in the area of the Town Green). Chairwoman Carlson asked the Chief if we have a formal request for the painting; the Chief said Commissioner Limauro had suggested it. The Commission's consensus was not to do anything without checking with the Historic Commission. No further discussion took place. 3.2. North River Street Chief Terribile received a letter from Mr. Joel Schiavone regarding the results and decision of the Commission regarding truck traffic and speeding on North River Street. Chief Terribile was asked by the Commission to respond to Mr. Shiavone's letter. 3.3. Northwood Drive/ "Slow Children" sign Chief Terribile received a letter from Lynne & Greg Litvyn of 101 Northwood Drive requesting a "Slow Children" sign and their concern about the speeding on Northwood Drive. Chief Terribile suggested that we place the smart trailer on Northwood and do radar patrols. He will also respond to their letter explaining "Slow Children" signs are not an authorized sign. Chairwoman Carlson asked if there was something the Department can do inform the public of the speeding limits in Town and that children signs are not authorized signs allowed by the State. Chief said he would ask Sgt. Norman to do a Crime Prevention release in the near future. 3.4. Crosswalks Chief Terribile informed the Commission that he has requested Mr. Volpe of Public Works paint crosswalks in the center as well as the stop bar at State Street and Little Meadow; and the crosswalks at River/ North River at the intersection of Boston Post Road. Mr. Volpe normally does the painting in the fall, but Chief has asked that he do it this Spring. 4. Committee Reports 4.1 Facilities/Equipment 4.1.l. Air Handlers Chief Terribile discussed the modifications of HVAC system for the Data Entry Room and the Restrooms which has become necessary. He spoke to Commissioners Carlson and Limauro on March 22 and March 23rd respectfully regarding this matter. He provided copy of the proposed cost with the approval of the Commission to go forward with the project. 4.1.2. Chief Terribile informed the Commission that the contract between the Town and the contractor for the Animal Shelter was signed today. The next meeting for the Animal Shelter Building Committee is May 10th. Commissioner Cole asked what the final amount appropriated for the project. Commissioner Barrett said he thought it was around $600,000 with a contingency built in. 4.2. Personnel 4.2.1. C.A.L.E.A. Letter Chief Terribile provided a copy of a letter received from C.A.L.E.A. presenting the Department with accreditation. Chief said we will be receiving a formal plaque very soon. 4.2.2. Evaluation Scores Chief Terribile provided copy of the department evaluation scores. He said if any Commissioner had questions regarding the scores to give him a call. 4.2.3. Sick Time Report Chief Terribile reported that sick time use was at an acceptable level at 3.65, and 1.75 for Sick EL per employee. These figures are lower that other police departments. Commissioner Cole said some employees are above that average? Chief Terribile said that when an employee takes a lot of sick time it is evaluated and if necessary Lt. Robinson speaks with the employee. Some are explained by long term illness or injury. 4.2.4. Grievance 2005-01 Chief Terribile asked Union Representatives Officer Anthony Mastriano and Officer Robert Dube' if they would like to discuss the grievance in Public or Executive Session? Both responded Public was okay. Chief Terribile explained he sent out a letter, dated April 7, 2005 stating that no vacation will be granted on the following dates: July 14, 15, 16, 2005 ( Guilford Handcrafts); September 16, 17, 18, 2005 ( Guilford Fair); Christmas December 25, 2005. He also stated that officer's were informed last year as well. He pointed out to the Commission that in the contract between the Town and the I.B.P.O. in Article VII, section 2a, and all vacations shall be taken within the fiscal year and "at times satisfactory to the Chief." Officer Mastriano ( Union President) addressed the Commission first explaining Christmas Day was not an issue. He stated that it has been past practice for vacations to be granted during the other two events. He stated that from 2001 to 2004 both events officers were allowed to take vacation time off. Currently, there are a few officers who have paid vacations planned during these events. He further stated that in 2001 the department was short nine officers and it was ok for officers to take vacation time. In 2004, the Department didn't want the fire/police to handle traffic and it was determined that an officer could be ordered in. He said that during previous negotiations there was a mutual respect for officers to have time off with their families. Commissioner Cole asked the Chief what the standard was for the period of 98/99? He stated that he was not aware that it had changed. Chief Terribile stated that he officially started his position in July 2002 therefore past practice does not apply. Officer Dube said that he was off during the Guilford Fair in 2003, and Officer O'Connor was off in 2001. Chief stated he is concerned for public safety with the influx of people for both events; stating that the police department should bear the responsibility of traffic not fire personnel. The Chief said that if an officer's RDO (regular day off) falls on those dates, it is ok but vacation time off is difficult to cover. He further stated that he didn't feel that restricting 6 days out of 365 was unreasonable. Commissioner Cole stated that he felt the Commission has a record of being liberal with vacation time and carrying over vacation. Chief Terribile said that the officers with time off during the events were prior to his effective date as the Chief in July 2002. Chairwoman Carlson asked if vacation time was restricted last year? Officer Mastriano read from copies of a time off report provided by Lt. Robinson. Chief Terribile stated that it is a managerial right to block time off if he feels there is public safety issue; that it is very clearly stated in the contract. Commissioner Cole discussed the grievance last year regarding Officer Magriz and overtime issues during the Guilford Fair. Commissioner Dostert asked when the Chief's letter went out? April 7, 2005. She also asked how many employees will be affected? Officer Mastriano said there are three employees who have paid for vacations during the two events. Chief Terribile said that the bidding was not locked in yet when the letter was distributed. Chairwoman Carlson said she sat in on the last contract negotiations and felt the Commission and the Chief were very conscientious about family time and that if the Chief feels a need for full staffing he has a right to send out notice to that affect. Commissioner Cole asked if prior to 2001 was it policy with the Department to restrict time off? Chief said, not in writing. Commissioner Cole said he remembers that in the 98 contract that only one officer could be off at one time; he was trying to understand the practice in place prior to 1998. Chief said that at that time only one officer could be off at one time. Commissioner Cole said then we were allowing one officer off at one time. Chief said things have changed since then and that he felt he was taking a proactive approach to maintain coverage for the Town during these events. Chief Terribile said the contract reads that more than one can be off, but that the Chief would decide. Commissioner Barrett asked if the vacation was submitted at the time of shift bid? Chairwoman Carlson asked how far out the bidding is? Chief said 56 days. Commissioner Barrett expressed that the Commission is not unsympathetic. Chairwoman Carlson stated that if the Chief feels a need for full staffing that she doesn't believe that the Commission would want to be in the position to explain the time off if something should happen at either event. She further stated that the bottom line is that based on the contract the Chief has the right to decide staffing. Chief Terribile said he respected the Union's position. Motion:     Motion made by Commissioner Carlson, seconded by Commissioner Barrett to deny the second step for Grievance 2005-01. Vote: In favor: Chairwoman Carlson, Commissioners Barrett, Cole, and Dostert. Opposed: None Abstained: None 4.2.5. Explorer Post Policy Review Chief Terribile presented the Commission the draft for the Explorer Program to make them aware of the policy. Chief explained that the student will have to attend the 1ast 5 classes before the department would supply them with uniforms. Chairwoman Carlson asked how many are currently enrolled? Chief said right now there are 8. Chief said the Explorers will be working the Little folks fair taking ID pictures for KidCare. Also, they will be helping out at our Open House on May 21, 2005. Chairwoman Carlson asked if there was a "swearing in" ceremony? She said the Commission would like to meet them. Chief Terribile said he would look into having them come to a Commission meeting. 4. 3. Communications Motion:     Motion made by Commissioner Dostert, seconded by Commissioner Barrett to add 4.3.9 Letter from University of New Haven, and 4.3.10 Letter from Olivia and Valerie Boudreau/ Officer Doody to the agenda. Vote: In favor: Chairwoman Carlson, Commissioners Barrett, Cole, and Dostert. Opposed: None Abstained: None 4.3.1. Letter from West Haven Police Department - Officer Bernier Commissioner Dostert read a letter from Captain Colleen Smullen, West Haven Police Department thanking Officer Timothy Bernier for his assistance on March 8, 2005. "We were all faced with treacherous driving conditions when the temperatures dropped causing the wet road surfaces to freeze." Officer Bernier arriving on the scene of an accident with approximately fifteen cars stuck on the road. Officer Bernier asked if the officer needed assistance and began helping Officer Schweitzer direct traffic so he could clear the road. After approximately ten minutes Officer Bernier left to bring his family home, only to return to assist Officer Schweitzer until all the traffic was cleared. "I want to personally thank Officer Bernier for all his assistance. His actions were greatly appreciated by this department, and especially by Officer Schweitzer." 4.3.2. Letter from Mr. Richard Meier/ Officer Mulero, M.A.C.O. Pinette, Dispatcher Terribile Commissioner Dostert read a letter received from Mr. Richard Meier of Thorn Hill Road thanking the Department for their assistance in its response to an incident recently. He stated, "I have never lived in another place that even comes close to having the dedicated professionals we have here in Guilford. I shared my experience with a friend in Chicago who was astonished. He still thinks I am making up the part where the Chief of Police actually returned my call. So please accept my most sincere thanks on behalf of my family and myself." 4.3.3. Letter from Curt Dawson/ Bluff View Drive Commissioner Dostert read a letter from Mr. Curt Dawson thanking the Commission and the Chief of Police for its response to a request for speed signs in the area of Bluff View Drive. 4.3.4. Letter from Ms. Linda Bouchard/ Ex Officer Commissioner Dostert noted receipt of the letter from Ms. Bouchard. Chairwoman Carlson stated that as there is a CHRO filed against the Town the Commission has been advised to refer Ms. Bouchard to Town Hall and legal counsel as the Police Commission is now out of the loop. Ms. Bouchard stated that she is currently on workers comp. and has not gotten a clear definition of "gainfully employed" from the Town. The only response she has received to date was a copy of an e-mail between Ms. Forte and Attorney Judith Ravel, which states that the Town doesn't want to be "on the hook" for benefits. She further stated that Attorney Dorney has not yet responded to letters. She said she is not getting any answers. Chairwoman Carlson said she would follow up tomorrow and make inquiry with our town attorney and Ms. Forte why there has been no response. Commissioner Cole stated that "you deserve a response." Chairwoman Carlson said she will commit to getting her an answer. Ms Bouchard said she felt the Town was not taking it seriously. Officer Mastriano said as a side note, there is a serious problem here. The Town needs to realize that Officers risk their lives every day and how does the Town expect an officer and his/her family to live on $24,000 a year for the rest of his life without trying to supplement the income with at least a part time job. Commissioner inquired about the information regarding Linda Bouchard's injury. Commissioner Cole suggested that this should be a negotiable item in the upcoming contract negotiations. Officer Mastriano said that someone needs to be spoken to regarding this issue. Chairwoman Carlson again, stated that she would speak to Attorney Dorney and Joyce Forte. Ms. Bouchard requested that Chairwoman Carlson not speak to Ms. Forte, only Attorney Dorney. Ms. Bouchard stated that as a result of her original injury residual injuries have occurred and that this is still in litigation. Chief Terribile asked the Commission to please get this resolved as soon as possible. Commissioner Cole stated that individuals on the Commission are aware of this situation and have sought a remedy. 4.3.5. Letter from Mrs. Janeway Commissioner Dostert read a letter from Mrs. Janeway thanking Officer Ruggiero for his assistance recently. "He was courteous to us & understanding. We are so thankful to live in Guilford where we are so cared for, and you are fortunate to have such good people around you." 4.3.6. Letter from Ms. Okie Commissioner Dostert read a letter from Ms. Okie thanking Officer Pat Leary for his assistance in a noise complaint recently. 4.3.7. Letter from Ms. Fischer Commissioner Dostert read a letter from Ms. Fischer thanking Officer Pat Leary for protecting her until her husband was able to get home. "I felt safe with you there, and the task really required an officer. I think you'd agree." 4.3.8. Letter from Police Commission Association F.Y.I. announcement was distributed to the Commission 4.3.9. Letter from University of New Haven Commissioner Dostert read a letter from L. Craig Parker, Jr., Ph.D. thanking Chief Terribile for his presentation to University students enrolled in a Police in Society course. "Your lecture was both informative and stimulating, adding to the overall appreciation of the role of law enforcement n American Society." 4.3.10. Letter from Olivia and Valerie Boudreau Commissioner Dostert read a letter from Olivia and Valerie Boudreau thanking Officer Doody for his efforts during an M.V.A. "The care given to me and my daughter allowed me to travel with her. Thanks to a real professional." 4.4. Budget/Finance 4.4.1. 2004/2005 Budget Chief Terribile reported his budget analysis for the current budget. He said he projects a $62,000 surplus. The training portion of this surplus represents $10 to $15 thousand. He stated that Sgt. Charles Korn is doing a great job; organizing the training division while being conservative in his spending. 4.4.2. 2005/2006 Budget Chief said the referendum for the Budget is on Tuesday, April 26, 2005 as well as for the Library and repairs to schools. 5. Monthly Reports Chief distributed in the Commissioner's packets a letter Sgt. Norman had sent to the Officers on March 14, 2005 reminding the officers of the Department's "green light" usage policy, which was discussed at a recent Commission meeting. Commissioner Cole commented that it was a good letter. Chairwoman Carlson asked if there were any questions concerning the reports? Chief Terribile passed out a "challenge coin" the department will be passing out to officers for a job well done. Officer Bernier was the first officer to receive a coin. 6. Old Business Chief Terribile asked the Commission what they would like to do about replacing the midnight shift dispatcher? Would they like to hire another officer? Or replace the dispatcher position? The current contract with the dispatchers will not allow the department to hire part time employees. It was decided to have the position of police dispatcher advertised in the paper through Joyce Forte and appoint an ad hoc interview team made up of police personnel to complete the testing and interviewing with their recommendations to the Police Commission. Deputy Chief said the position should be advertised as a midnight position. 7. New Business Chief Terribile gave the status of the State Homeland Security grant we are expected to receive. Due to some personnel changes at the State level, the grant money has been delayed but we anticipate the money soon. Chief Terribile said he would like to replace the current camera system in the department with digital/color system. Obtaining quotes will depend upon whether the State has put this type of system out for bid; if they have then we would have to go with that vendor. Chief will report back to the Commission regarding this matter. Chairwoman Carlson asked who "our" vendor is? Chief said, Strategic Security. Deputy Chief said the State usually takes everyone's request for the grant money and based on the requests the State puts out bids to obtain the best price. He further stated that we should be hearing from Homeland security within the next month or so. Mr. Steven Heinz addressed the Commission explaining that his neighborhood is planning a "block" party which will include a bike race for the kids, etc. The event is on June 18 with a rain date of June 19 from 11:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. He is requesting that Highwoods Drive be blocked off on the lower end of the street to accommodate the party. In addition, he requested that Highwoods Drive be closed for approximately 15 minutes for the bike race from the stop sign on Mirror Lane to the cul de sac. Deputy Chief asked how many houses were at the end of the street that would be affected by the closing? Mr. Heintz said 4 houses. Chief Terribile expressed his concerns for the ability for fire/police emergency vehicle access. He further explained that any gas grills and/or porta-potty would have to be placed on someone's lawn. He suggested that he put his request in writing to the Commission and it will be reviewed at the next meeting. Chief Terribile suggested that he speak with Lt. Hocking. Chairwoman Carlson said the she felt that the Department will be able to work something out with them but we would need to work out the public safety issues. Mr. Heinz said he would submit a letter tomorrow. Commissioner Barrett said he had talked with the parents of a student who was in a motor vehicle accident recently and expressed how grateful they were to Officer Daniel Morrell for his assistance during the MVA. Chief Terribile spoke to the Commission regarding an incident which occurred at E.C. Adams Middle School. He explained that this incident was serious enough that the police department should have been called, and we were not called. After a discussion regarding the incident, the Commission requested a letter be drafted to Mrs. Barbara Truex with a copy to Catherine Walker , principal of E.C. Adams. Chairwoman Carlson said that the Commission is extremely concerned and would like this incident documented in the record and hopes to follow up with the newly appointed superintendent of schools after someone is placed in that position. Commissioner Dostert agreed that word needs to get to the principals of the schools on how to handle this type of situation. Motion:     Motion made by Chairwoman Carlson, seconded by Commissioner Barrett to go into Executive Session at 6:56 P.M. for the purpose of discussing personnel issues. Vote: In favor: Chairwoman Carlson, Commissioners Barrett, Cole, and Dostert. Opposed: None Abstained: None Chief Terrible, Deputy Chief Hutchinson and the Clerk of the Board left the room. Respectfully submitted, Anita Catardi Clerk of the Board Motion:     Motion made by Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Barrett to return to Public Session at 7:20 P.M. Vote: In favor: Chairwoman Carlson, Commissioners Barrett, Cole, and Dostert. Opposed: None Abstained: None Motion:     Motion made by Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Barrett to adjourn at 7:23 P.M. Vote: In favor: Chairwoman Carlson, Commissioners Barrett, Cole, and Dostert. Opposed: None Abstained: None Respectfully submitted, Rose Dostert Police Commissioner | General Info | Records | FAQs | Lost & Found | D.A.R.E. | Crime Prevention | | Most Wanted | Events | Animal Control | Email |