Meeting Summary
The city council received an update on police use of force and school resource officers, which highlighted low overall use of force but persistent racial disparities in certain call types, and a focus on youth diversion. The council also discussed and affirmed staff to pursue the acquisition of a hotel property at 309 Norman Center Court for affordable housing, potentially allowing the VA to acquire the previously considered 1210 West Robinson site.
Key Decisions & Votes
Affordable Housing Property Acquisition
1:23:20Council affirmed staff to proceed with exploring the acquisition of the hotel property at 309 Norman Center Court for affordable housing, and to continue due diligence on 1210 West Robinson while considering the VA's interest in that site.
Financial Matters
1210 West Robinson Property Acquisition
Earnest money for the purchase contract, which the city can keep if they terminate by the deadline. The VA informally offered to recover the city's expended costs.
309 Norman Center Court Property Acquisition
Listed price for the hotel property being considered for affordable housing.
VA Hospital/Clinic Employee Salaries
Estimated annual salary for 150 personnel at the proposed VA facility at 1210 West Robinson.
Renovation Estimate for 309 Norman Center Court
Anticipated renovation costs for the hotel property, significantly less than the hospital property.
Coming Up
Deadlines
- October 22nd (or November 21st with extension) for terminating 1210 West Robinson contract.
Watch For
- Appraisal results for 309 Norman Center Court (3-4 weeks)
- Inspection reports for 1210 West Robinson
- Discussion with Food and Shelter folks on September 8th regarding warming shelter site.
Agenda Summary
Update from Dr. David McLeod regarding police use of force and school resource officers
Dr. McLeod presented findings on use of force data, noting racial disparities in specific call types (fight and disturbance calls) but overall low incidence. He also provided preliminary data on SRO interactions, primarily involving mental health crises rather than criminal arrests, and discussed the importance of SROs not being used for school discipline.
Update and discussion regarding the possible acquisition of property located at 309 Norman Center Court
Staff provided updates on the 1210 West Robinson property, including a new offer from the VA, and introduced a new potential affordable housing site at 309 Norman Center Court (a hotel). The new site offers more immediate readiness and lower renovation costs.