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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-12-07 Government Operations Committee Minutes Government Operations Committee December 7, 2015 Minutes Councilors Attending: Plourde, Baldacci, Nichols, Perry, Graham, Faircloth Staff Attending: Conlow, Farrar, Heitmann, Hamilton, Hathaway, Linscott Others Attending: one citizen Committee Chair Plourde called the meeting to Order at 6:20 pm. 1. Shelter Plus Care Funding from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development - Public Health and Community Services Director Hamilton explained the nature, purpose and details of the two Shelter Plus Care Grants from HUD in the amounts of $383, 182 and $114,847. It was moved by Graham, seconded by Baldacci and voted without objection to recommend acceptance and appropriation of both grants to the full Council. 2. Agreement between the City of Bangor –Community Connector and University of Maine- Augusta Campus for implementation of Free Fare Program for students and staff - Assistant City Manager Farrar and Bus Superintendent Linscott explained the program details including an 18 month term beginning January 1, 2016, 3 payments of $2,100 by the UMaine Augusta Campus (located in Bangor), and free rides on the Community Connector for students and staff. This program is similar to those already in place for UMaine –Orono, Husson University, and Eastern Maine Community College. Following questions by Councilors, it was moved by Graham, seconded by Faircloth and voted without objection to recommend approval of the Agreement to the full Council. 3. Proposed Naming Policy for City Owned Property - As there is currently no policy in place to guide the City Council in naming city owned property, the Legal Department prepared a draft policy for the Committee’s consideration. Committee members and Solicitor Heitmann reviewed the provisions of the draft proposal. There were no suggested changes. It was moved by Graham, seconded by Baldacci and voted without objection to recommend approval of the policy as prepared to the full Council. 4. Update from Bangor Police Department - Chief Hathaway gave the Committee an overview of the investigation that is underway regarding the recent officer involved shooting. The Chief explained that it is a three part process: an external review by the Attorney’s General Office, an internal Department investigation, and a review by an Independent Review Board comprised of Department representatives and community members. Hathaway explained the nature of the three investigations in general terms, as specifics could not be discussed given the ongoing investigative processes. Committee members asked questions concerning the lack of interest in law enforcement careers. The Chief stated this is a problem not only in Maine, but nationwide as the roles and duties of police officers have changed significantly over the years. Committee members praised the work of the Police Department and stated their appreciation for the work performed by all Department members. The Committee thanked the Chief for his efforts during this difficult time. With no further business to come before the Committee, the meeting was adjourned at 6:40 pm.