HomeMy WebLinkAboutPD Police Advisory & Accountability Committee Annual Report 2024Council Meeting: 02/18/2025 Disposition: Accepted report Agenda Item No: 6.a Meeting Date: February 18, 2025 SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT Department: Police Department Prepared by: Teresa Olson, Senior Management Analyst II David Spiller, Police Chief City Manager Approval: ______________ TOPIC: POLICE ADVISORY AND ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2024 SUBJECT: ACCEPT THE POLICE ADVISORY AND ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2024 RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the City Council accept the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee Annual Report. BACKGROUND: On June 5, 2023, the San Rafael City Council approved Resolution No. 15225, which established the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee (PAAC). The PAAC was created to foster trust between the community and the San Rafael Police Department (“Department” or “SRPD”), enhancing both transparency and accountability. The Committee's main purpose is to provide insights that enhance public transparency and accountability within the San Rafael Police Department. It aims to increase community involvement in recommending policies, practices, and procedures related to policing, including community relations, hiring practices, and training standards. On November 20, 2024, the PAAC was scheduled to review the draft 2024 Annual Report; however, the meeting was adjourned early due to technical difficulties. A Special Meeting was convened on December 4, 2024, at which time the PAAC was presented with the draft Annual Report, along with a red-lined version reflecting staff revisions made in response to feedback from both the Committee and the public. During the Special Meeting, the Committee provided additional comments and feedback, and further suggestions were submitted to staff for consideration and incorporation into the final report. The final draft of the report was presented to the PAAC during its meeting on January 15, 2025. Following a thorough discussion by Committee members and the opportunity for public comment, the report was reviewed and amended as necessary. After considering all input, the Committee accepted the report through a motion, thereby concluding the review process. ____________________________________________________________________________________ FOR CITY CLERK ONLY SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2 The 2024 Annual Report, prepared in accordance with the PAAC bylaws, is provided in Attachment 1. This comprehensive report offers an in-depth summary of the Committee’s activities during its inaugural year, highlighting the development of work plans, the range of training topics addressed, presentations delivered, and key recommendations put forward. The report also captures the current status of these recommendations, including detailed responses from SRPD staff. This report and recommendations are now presented to the City Council for consideration and potential action. ANALYSIS: The PAAC is focused on advancing transparency, accountability, and community involvement within the SRPD. The Committee’s mission is to provide valuable input on the development and refinement of SRPD’s policies, practices, and procedures, with particular emphasis on areas such as community relations, hiring practices, and training standards. In addition to improving transparency and accountability, the PAAC seeks to establish stronger lines of communication and collaboration between the Police Department and the community, fostering trust and shared responsibility for public safety. The 2024 Annual Report, developed in compliance with section 1.3 of the PAAC bylaws, presents a comprehensive account of the Committee’s activities, accomplishments, and impact during its first year. This report details the specific recommendations made by PAAC members, tracks the progress on their implementation, and provides a thorough overview of the ongoing initiatives designed to foster a stronger and more collaborative relationship between the SRPD and the community. Furthermore, the report emphasizes the Committee's strategic focus on promoting best practices in law enforcement, with a commitment to advancing transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement of police services. Through robust community engagement and feedback, the PAAC aims to contribute to the development of policing practices that reflect the values and needs of the community it serves. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this report. OPTIONS: The City Council has the following options to consider on this matter: 1.Accept the 2024 PAAC Annual Report 2.Direct staff to return with more information. 3.Take no action. RECOMMENDED ACTION: Staff recommends that the City Council accept the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee Annual Report. ATTACHMENT: 1.2024 PAAC Annual Report 2024 ANNUAL REPORT Table of Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................. 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ................................................................................................. 1 STRUCTURE ................................................................................................................... 1 COMMITTEE MEETINGS ............................................................................................... 2 STAFFING UPDATES ..................................................................................................... 3 COMMITTEE WORK ...................................................................................................... 3 COMMITTEE WORK PLANS .............................................................................................. 3 PRESENTATIONS AND SPEAKERS ...................................................................................... 5 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION ....................................................................................... 6 TRAINING, DEVELOPMENT, AND CONFERENCES .................................................. 13 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND FUTURE GOALS ......................................................... 15 1 Executive Summary The Police Advisory and Accountability Committee (PAAC) is pleased to present the first annual report for the City of San Rafael. Established on June 5, 2023, through the adoption of Resolution No. 15225 by the San Rafael City Council, the PAAC aims to foster trust, enhance transparency, and improve accountability within the San Rafael Police Department (SRPD). This inaugural report reflects our commitment to engaging the community in meaningful dialogue about policing practices and policies. It outlines activities over the past year, highlights key achievements, and emphasizes our ongoing efforts to ensure that community voices are integral to the decision-making process. The Committee recognizes the importance of collaboration between the Police Department and the community it serves. The work is rooted in the belief that transparent, accountable policing is vital for building public trust and ensuring a safe and equitable environment for all residents and businesses. This report provides an overview of our goals and objectives, a summary of initiatives and community engagement efforts, recommendations to the City Council, and a look ahead at the priorities we plan to pursue in the coming year. Structure Committee members must be residents of the City of San Rafael and pledge their commitment to impartiality, objectivity, and fairness. The PAAC aims to ensure that its membership is inclusive and representative of the community's diverse backgrounds. This includes but is not limited to considerations of race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, economic status, and various communities of interest. To be eligible for membership, individuals must be at least 18 years old, except for one designated seat reserved for a youth member aged 17 to 26. Importantly, applicants are not required to possess specialized knowledge or skills to serve on the Committee. The current Committee comprises the following members: 2 Name Term Expiration Paula Kamena 10/2027 Darlin Ruiz 10/2027 Daryoush Davidi 10/2027 Mydung Nguyen 10/2027 Marilyn Alvarez 10/2025 Fatai Tokolahi 10/2025 Daniel Alm 10/2025 Salamah Locks (Alternate) 10/2027 Karla Valdez (Alternate) 10/2027 Committee Meetings The PAAC held its inaugural meeting on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. The PAAC meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 PM. The Committee did not meet in June or December. Regular Committee meetings are held in City Council chambers located at 1400 Fifth Ave, San Rafael, CA, 94901 and broadcast live online. Archived meeting videos and materials are also available online at the following URL: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/paac-meetings/. The regular meetings convene the Committee to conduct business as a whole body and invite public comments in an open forum where ideas, concerns, and input are exchanged. Public feedback is highly encouraged and may also be submitted electronically in advance of the meeting. Post-meeting video recordings and meeting minutes are also made available on the Committee website for full transparency. The table below lists meeting dates and topics presented to the Committee from December 2023 to November 2024. 3 Staffing Updates In 2024, the City established a Senior Management Analyst position to support the PAAC. After conducting an open recruitment process, the position was successfully filled in July 2024. Committee Work During the December 2023 meeting, the Committee elected Paula Kamena as Chair and Fatai Tokolahi as Vice Chair. A new Chair and Vice Chair will be elected for 2025 during the November 20, 2024, meeting. The Committee co-created bylaws and finalized them at the January 17, 2024, meeting. The bylaws were presented to the City Council on February 5, 2024. Committee Work Plans In 2024, the Committee developed two distinct work plans: one covering the year's first four months and the other for the remainder of 2024. The first work plan was discussed at the January 17 meeting. In addition to the training topics recommended by the SRPD, the PAAC prioritized topics of community concern for future discussions. The work plan is a strategic framework guiding the Committee’s conversations and initiatives. It encompasses essential training and pivotal discussions aimed at formulating recommendations to enhance community relationships through increased transparency and improved practices within the Police Department. The first work plan identified four topics: Recruitment and Selection, Law Enforcement Training, Mental Health/Alternative Response, and SRPD Response to Homelessness. The work plan is designed to support the PAAC’s advisory role to the City Council regarding the SRPD's training, hiring practices, and accountability. The table below summarizes the initial four-month work plan. 4 Month Agenda Items February 1. Police Department Orientation, Structure, Policy & Command Staff Introduction. 2. Recruitment and Selection March 1. Peace Officer Procedural Bill of Rights 2. Professional Standards & Internal Affairs April 1. Military Equipment (AB 481 Overview) 2. Law Enforcement Training May 1. Use of Force 2. Mental Health and Alternative Response The second work plan introduced key topics for further examination, including the Use of Force, Domestic Violence, Youth and Policing, and Homelessness. The table below outlines the second work plan. Month Agenda Items July 1. Domestic Violence 2. 2023 Community Survey Data August 1. Use of Force September 1. Youth and Policing October 1. 2024 Complaint Data 2. Homelessness Although the Use of Force was part of the initial work plan, its presentation was delayed until August 2024 due to logistical and staffing challenges. Likewise, while Homelessness was identified in the initial work plan, it was addressed in collaboration with the SRPD and City staff during the October 2024 meeting. These work plans are essential frameworks for the Committee, guiding discussions and initiatives on pressing community issues related to policing. The PAAC is dedicated 5 to engaging in these topics to promote transparency and strengthen community relations with the SRPD. Presentations and Speakers The PAAC facilitated a series of presentations to deepen community engagement and understanding of policing practices. This lineup featured diverse speakers, including legal experts, police department officials, and community advocates, who addressed critical issues impacting public safety, policing practices, and accountability. Topics ranged from foundational knowledge of the Brown Act and the public meeting process to in-depth discussions on police recruitment, domestic violence response, and legislative changes affecting law enforcement. These presentations have provided an invaluable platform for fostering transparency and dialogue between the community and the San Rafael Police Department. Below is the complete schedule of topics and speakers for the year. Month Topic Presenter December 2023 An Introduction to the Brown Act Genevieve Coyle, Assistant City Attorney December 2023 An Introduction to the Public Meeting Process Lindsay Lara, City Clerk December 2023 History and Overview of the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee (PAAC) Francine Tournor, Director of the Office of Police Oversight for the City of Long Beach February 2024 Police Department Orientation, Structure, Policy & Command Staff Introductions David Spiller, Chief of Police February 2024 San Rafael Police Department Recruitment and Selection Ronda Cordero, Police Sergeant 6 Month Topic Presenter March 2024 Peace Officer Bill of Rights (POBAR) Mark Wilson, Attorney for Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP March 2024 San Rafael Police Department Internal Affairs Todd Berringer, Police Lieutenant April 2024 AB 481 Military Equipment Scott Eberle, Police Lieutenant April 2024 Law Enforcement Training Rob Cleland, Police Sergeant May 2024 Mental Health Alternative Response Aziz Majid, SAFE Team Director July 2024 Domestic Violence Response Lorena Vega, Police Detective July 2024 Domestic Violence Luz Alvarado, Legal Systems Advocacy Program Director Center for Domestic Peace August 2024 Use of Force Robert Cleland, Police Sergeant September 2024 Youth and Policing Mike Mathis, Police Sergeant October 2024 Senate Bill 2 (SB2) Mark Wilson, Attorney for Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP October 2024 Homelessness Lynn Murphy, SRPD Mental Health Liaison & Mel Burnette, Homelessness and Housing Analyst December 2024 PAAC 2024 Annual Report SRPD Staff December 2024 Law Enforcement Technological Resources Justin Graham, Police Sergeant Committee Recommendation Throughout the year, Committee members invested significant time and effort into developing a comprehensive set of proposals for the City Council. These proposals were 7 shaped by a diverse range of opinions and viewpoints, incorporating feedback and insights gathered from staff presentations, training sessions, and extensive, in-depth discussions. The following summary provides an overview of the key actions, strategies, and diverse perspectives of the Committee members, highlighting the collaborative effort and meaningful dialogue that guided the process. • December 2023 – PAAC members will be given priority seating on interview panels and will be actively involved in the hiring process. • Status: SRPD has implemented this recommendation. SRPD has engaged PAAC members to participate in oral boards for sworn and non-sworn positions. PAAC members participated in 12 different Oral Board interview panels for positions of Police Officer, Police Recruit, and Police Cadet in 2024. • Explanation: Section 1.3 of the PAAC bylaws reads in part, “Advise the City Council, the City Manager, the Committee members, and the Police Department on matters associated with the following…4. Increase diversity of the police department workforce.” SRPD has included PAAC Committee members in oral board panels for interviews for potential new hires for both sworn and non-sworn positions. • Committee feedback: Member Alm expressed this request in conversation with Francine Tournor during the draft bylaw discussions, citing the importance of the PAAC in having input on who the department is hiring. • March 2024 – Recruitment and Selection (based upon the presentation made during the February 2024 meeting) - Include Cultural Awareness training and provide statistics on internal recruitment efforts in the Recruitment and Selection Plan. • Status: SRPD has implemented cultural awareness training, requiring all employees to complete DEIB training. SRPD will implement the recommendation to provide updates on recruitment efforts to the PAAC. 8 • Explanation: SRPD requires all employees to complete Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) training, and the P.O.S.T. required cultural diversity training. SRPD will continue to track the recruitment of police officers as part of its Recruitment and Selection Plan. • Committee feedback: Member Ruiz highlighted the critical importance of diversity training for new police officers, specifically addressing the unique dynamics of the Canal neighborhood. She emphasized the need for officers to understand and connect with the immigrant population, ensuring they approach interactions with cultural sensitivity and awareness. Member Locks echoed this perspective, underscoring the significance of fostering cultural awareness within the department to better serve and engage with the diverse communities they protect. Both members agreed that such training is essential for building trust and improving community relations. • April 2024 – AB 481 Military Equipment - The City would benefit from a Drone (UAV) program. • Status: The recommendation regarding a UAV program is under consideration. • Explanation: During the December 2024 PAAC meeting, SRPD delivered an in-depth presentation on the integration of technology in policing, highlighting the growing role that advanced tools such as UAVs can play in enhancing law enforcement capabilities. As part of this presentation, the December staff report provided a comprehensive overview of the proposed drone program, including detailed information on its potential operational benefits, capabilities, and estimated costs. It was emphasized that the implementation of such a program would require approval from the City Council to secure the necessary funding and resources for its successful deployment. 9 • Committee feedback: For a thorough overview of the Committee Members' insights regarding a UAV program, please refer to the December 2024 recommendations on page 12 of this report, which outlines detailed suggestions and actionable recommendations on various aspects of the program. These recommendations provide a deeper understanding of the Committee's perspectives and priorities moving forward. • May 2024 – Mental Health Alternative Response - Secure additional funding for a second Specialized Assistance For Everyone (SAFE) Team to expand coverage to 24 hours daily. • Status: SRPD is working to implement this recommendation. • Explanation: The current SAFE program is funded as a three- year pilot program and provides coverage from 8 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. SRPD is exploring additional funding options, such as grants to expand the program. Although we cannot guarantee we will secure funding for the SAFE team, it is SRPD’s goal and plan to identify and apply for grants to facilitate the recommendation. • Committee feedback: Members of the Committee, including Members Alm, Alvarez, Davidi, Kamena, Locks, Ruiz, Tokolahi, and Valdez, expressed strong support for the program, recognizing its value and impact. They raised important questions regarding the sustainability of the program, specifically inquiring about long-term funding options to ensure its continued success. Specifically, Member Davidi stressed his position that securing funding for the SAFE program should be considered a top priority. He emphasized the critical need for sustained financial support to ensure the program's continued success. In addition, Committee members engaged in a thorough discussion about the potential to expand the program’s service hours. They recognized that extending service hours could help better meet the evolving 10 needs of the community and further enhance the program’s overall effectiveness and impact. • July 2024 – Domestic Violence Response - Establish reciprocity for recognizing restraining orders from countries outside of Canada. • Status: SRPD is unable to implement this recommendation. • Explanation: This recommendation would necessitate changes to state and/or federal legislation, along with agreements with other countries. Therefore, the City is unable to implement this recommendation. • Committee feedback: Member Alm brought this recommendation forward following the presentation on Domestic Violence. Member Tokolahi requested this topic be brought back for a future discussion at a later date. • August 2024 – Use of Force - Reinstate the Police K9 program. • Status: SRPD has implemented this. recommendation. • Explanation: SRPD has reimplemented the K9 program. A K9 officer was selected in July of 2024, and after completing several months of training, the officer and K9 “Tango” are currently assigned to patrol. • Committee feedback: Members Davidi, Kamena, and Tokolahi shared their support for the K9 program. • October 2024 – Youth and Policing - Support the reintegration of SRPD officers in schools. • Status: This topic is under consideration. • Explanation: SRPD is in discussions with the San Rafael City School (SRCS) District about potential options for future partnerships. Staff is also evaluating different models and will solicit feedback from the community as part of this effort. These groups will bring together key people with vested interests, including youth representatives, school and school district representatives, community members, and social service 11 providers, to seek their input. A partnership between SRPD and the SRCS District would likely require a formal agreement that would be subject to approval from both the City Council and the SRCS Board of Education. • Committee feedback: Members Alm, Davidi, Fatai, Kamena, and Ruiz all made favorable comments about supporting having SRPD back in schools in either an SRO model or another type of program. Member Kamena shared her support for SRPD working with the San Rafael City School Board to determine how students and teachers feel about SROs. Member Alvarez shared insights into incorporating the needs and desires of the youth in the community and involving them in future conversations on this topic during the PAAC meeting on September 18, 2024. Member Tokolahi recommended that SRCS staff members and students be included in any discussions regarding this topic to ensure all relevant parties are represented. • October 2024 – Youth and Policing - Maintain ongoing updates. • Status: SRPD will implement this recommendation. • Explanation: Staff will provide updates or schedule further discussions on this topic. • Committee feedback: Members Alm, Kamena, and Tokolahi all expressed wanting to discuss the topic of youth and policing further and to “take a deeper dive” and “bring back” the topic. Member Alm expressed a desire to stress to the City Council to restudy the topic and “to build a partnership…have the SRPD/City work with the board of trustees and have youth involvement in the decision-making process.” Member Tokolahi recommended the inclusion of teachers and school staff members in future discussions on this topic. Member Locks voiced her desire to initiate a grassroots effort to gather input from 12 both students and teachers on this topic and proposed collaborating with Member Alvarez on this initiative. • October 2024 – Homelessness - Maintain ongoing updates. • Status: SRPD will implement this recommendation. • Explanation: Staff will provide updates or schedule further discussions on this topic. • Committee feedback: Members requested future updates from staff on the progress of current programs and funding. • December 2024 – Technology and Policing (ALPR and UAV)– Supportive of UAVs and creating a UAV usage policy and ALPR program expansion. • Status: This recommendation is under consideration. SRPD is exploring future funding opportunities. • Explanation: Staff will provide updates or schedule further discussions on this topic. • Committee feedback: Member Davidi expressed support for all first responders using UAVs, noting that such programs could help reduce liability. However, he emphasized the need for a formal policy regarding UAV usage. Member Valdez also voiced her support for drones. Member Alm highlighted his interest in studying UAV usage further and called for the development of a UAV policy. Member Tokolahi shared his belief that UAVs would assist in de-escalation efforts and enhance manpower and efficiency. He also supported the SRPD in acquiring two UAVs and installing additional ALPR cameras. Furthermore, Member Tokolahi reiterated his backing for both UAVs and ALPR while stressing the importance of conducting a thorough study before implementing a UAV program. He also underscored the need for community outreach to gather public feedback on these initiatives. Member Locks agreed with Member Tokolahi's call for 13 more research on the programs and raised concerns about potential challenges associated with the use of such technology. Training, Development, and Conferences The Committee received training on the following topics during their meetings in 2023-2024. • The Ralph M. Brown Act • Peace Officer Bill of Rights (POBAR) • Senate Bill 2 (SB2) • Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) The Committee and staff discussed the possibility of attending a future National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE) conference. The most recent conference took place in October 2024 in Tucson, Arizona. Attendance at future conferences will be contingent upon the available budget. The Committee also inquired about becoming members of NACOLE. Members Alm and Kamena strongly recommended the allocation of budget funds to secure NACOLE membership, emphasizing the importance of providing the PAAC with access to specialized training and resources offered by the organization to enhance its effectiveness and understanding of key issues. Oral Board Participation The SRPD has made significant strides in improving its hiring practices by including a member of the PAAC on the Oral Board Panel for Police Officer and Police Cadet recruitments. PAAC members have participated in 12 different Oral Board Panels for positions of Police Officer, Police Recruit, and Police Cadet This change reflects the department's commitment to greater community involvement, transparency, and accountability in the selection of its officers. By inviting a PAAC member to participate, the department ensures that diverse perspectives are incorporated into the hiring process, fostering a stronger connection between the police force and the community it serves. 14 The Oral Board process is a critical component of the initial hiring phase. Candidates undergo a structured interview in which a panel, now including a PAAC representative, assesses their qualifications, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and suitability for the role of a police officer or cadet. This evaluation is designed to determine how well applicants align with the department’s values and its mission of community-oriented policing. The inclusion of a PAAC member enhances the objectivity and thoroughness of this process, ensuring that successful candidates not only possess the necessary skills but also reflect the values of integrity, service, and community partnership. Ride Along Participation During the October meeting of the PAAC, members provided reports on their recent ride-along experiences with local police officers. Each member shared their observations, highlighting the professionalism, empathy, and kindness demonstrated by the officers throughout their interactions with the community. These reflections underscored the positive and respectful approach officers consistently employed, even in challenging situations. The Committee members expressed their appreciation for the officers' commitment to community engagement and their ability to foster trust and understanding during the ride-along. The positive feedback received from the PAAC reflects the San Rafael Police Department’s ongoing efforts to uphold high standards of service and strengthen its relationship with the community. Excerpts from Committee members’ comments following their ride-along include: • “It was a very good experience. The officer explained the procedures and why they do the things they do. The officer was very empathic. Everyone should do this, not just a committee member.” • “Very interesting, …understanding their duties around San Rafael. I hope I can do it again.” • “Quite an experience. I learned a lot.” • “An amazing evening, …he is an asset to our community. We had a very engaged conversation.” 15 • “He was excellent…I did witness an effort to be more of a rehabilitation versus punitive. All the other officers were also following that model.” • “So kind and helpful…very impressive…concerned about officer safety.” • “...the officers we met on my ride along. I saw courtesy, compassion, smart police work, and camaraderie. Community Events Throughout the year, Committee members also engage in various community events, meetings, and discussions. Committee members share their outreach efforts during the Commissioner Reports portion of each PAAC meeting. Below is a list of events attended in 2024. • Movies in the Park • King Tides Event • Age 90 and Better • Marin Powwow • Center for Domestic Peace Mother’s Day Event • Canal Alliance Leadership Academy • Vintage Car Show • Marin County Fair • California Commission on Aging 50th Year Celebration • Canal Community Fair • Porchfest • YWCA Meeting • Latinas in Power Meeting • National Night Out Acknowledgments and Future Goals This report highlights the Committee's accomplishments in developing comprehensive work plans and engaging training sessions, as well as the actionable recommendations that emerged from discussions. Each of these efforts aims to enhance 16 community relations and ensure that policing practices reflect the values and needs of those we serve. The 2024 Annual Report reflects the dedicated efforts of the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee in fostering a stronger relationship between the San Rafael community and its Police Department. Through collaborative work, insightful training, and thoughtful recommendations, the PAAC has taken significant steps toward enhancing transparency and accountability. The Committee looks forward to continuing this vital work in the coming year and appreciates the community’s ongoing support and engagement. The PAAC is committed to strengthening the foundation of trust and engagement and invites the community to continue participating in this crucial dialogue and to support our shared vision for a safer, more inclusive San Rafael. Together, we can pave the way for meaningful change and ensure that our Police Department remains a true reflection of the community it serves. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in this essential work. The Committee will create its 2025 work plan during a workshop to be held in January 2025.