Tuesday, September 12, 2023

The council approved a Community Crisis Response Program research report by a 5-1 vote, with Bana voting no. The program would use $1 million allocated in 2021 to create alternatives to police for mental health and low-level emergency calls. 36 residents spoke in support, with many advocating for community-driven crisis response and housing the program within city departments rather than outsourcing.

The council approved $100,000 in additional funding for Downey Brand law firm to defend the Point Molate development project against environmental lawsuit appeals. The city has already spent $1.125 million defending the project after winning at trial court in 2022. The funding was approved unanimously.

Several major items received no votes, including an $8.6 million state grant to help 115 homeless residents find housing and clear dangerous encampments along Interstates 80 and 580. The council also did not vote on a $439,000 upgrade to the fire department's dispatch system and tablets for 35 vehicles.

The council heard a presentation on emergency services data from Matrix Consulting but took no action. Seven residents commented, with concerns about the report methodology and criticism of the 40% proactive policing recommendation. Discussion of the Police Activities League lease amendment for a tiny home village was also continued without a vote.