Meeting Summary
The city council convened a special meeting to receive a comprehensive presentation of the Norman Public Safety report from Matrix Consulting Group. The report detailed findings and recommendations for both the fire and police departments, addressing staffing, operations, facility needs, and future growth projections. Discussions highlighted significant increases in fire department call volume, the need for new stations and personnel, and a proposed reimagining of police field services to enhance proactive community engagement and address staffing shortages in key areas.
Financial Matters
New Fire Stations
Estimated cost for building new fire stations, with design changes for individual rooms.
Police Department Headquarters Replacement
Estimated cost to replace the current Police Department Headquarters building with a modern facility.
Public Safety Facility Needs Assessment
Funding request for a needs assessment for police and fire facilities to determine replacement/renovation costs and timelines.
Apparatus Exhaust Systems and Gear Washers
Funding issue for maintenance and replacement of exhaust systems and gear washers in fire stations, critical for personnel health and safety.
Police Pension System Funding Increase
Mandated cost increase for the stability of the police pension system.
Fire Department Staffing Increases
Significant staffing increases recommended for the fire department (approximately 104-105 sworn, 9 non-commissioned) for new stations, ladder companies, rescue, training, and administration.
Police Department Staffing Increases
Recommended net increase of 11 sworn personnel (investigations, lieutenants, support) and 24 professional positions (communications, support) over 10 years.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- Overtime audit data to be available by June budget adoption
Watch For
- Integration of public safety recommendations into future PSST 2 or 3 funding plans
- Exploration of alternative funding mechanisms for public safety, such as Public Safety districts or ad valorem tax
- Monitoring turnpike expansion for planning of Fire Station 12
- Budget cycle discussions for facility needs assessment and staffing priorities
Agenda Summary
Presentation of the Norman Public Safety report
A comprehensive report by Matrix Consulting Group detailing current staffing and operations, and 10-year projections for the Norman Police and Fire Departments.
Consideration of Journey
An item for consideration, likely related to moving into an executive session.