HomeMy WebLinkAboutMN-PCR-1992-06-22 MAYOR'S TASK FORCE ON POLICEICOMMUNITY RELATIONS
CITY HALL, ITHACA, NY 14850
Minutes from the Steering Committee meeting that was held on June 22,
1992 •(4:15 to 5:35 pm.)
Present: Coordinator Alvin Nelson, Mayor Ben Nichols, representing Police
Chief Harlin McEwen was John Ecklund, John Johnson, Clay Hamilton, Amy
Lewis, Irene Stein, Sara Shenk, Gerald Dumay, John Efroymson (visitor),
Rick Williams
Introductions were made.
Minutes from Jury committee were read by Irene Stein.
Summary of minutes from the Community Police Board Committee were
read by Sara Shenk.
Minutes from the Sensitivity committee were read by Clay Hamilton and
briefly discussed. Clay mentioned that all are welcome to attend the four
hour long meeting scheduled for 6/22/92.
Rick Williams discussed a few of his concerns and the purpose of the
committees. He stated that presently, there is no place for the older black
youth to party etc... without the police becoming apprehensive; making the
system oppressive. Youths feel harassment from police, this is a
remaining problem.
Clay reminded us that the Sensitivity committee's desire is to accomplish
an understanding, or midway point, to find the needs of the youths.
Mayor Nichols mentioned the different situations involving disturbance
calls, which are perceived differently by different groups/locations. In
general, black youths see it as harassement.
Clay suggested that the city donate a place.
Gerald reminded everyone as to the seriousness of the need for a place
Without somewhere for the youths to go, they have no identity and have
created more problems.
Amy recommended the funding for a properly run program, since most
funding has been cut from the teen/adult programs.
Mayor Nichols stated that, in the past, the search for a center has
been unsuccessful.
Amy suggested community involvement. Also that the youth and police
officers need to see each other as "real people". Southside had offered
P.A.L. space. Her committee meeting talked about the possibilities for a
police officer to live in the area in which he is assigned. The
recommendation is to promote interaction. It was stated that Chicago has
such a program.
Captain Ecklund explained that Houston had tried the same; however it
proved to be unfair to the police officer as he was unable to live a normal
life-style, in fact he was continuously on duty.
Irene informed everyone that the problem was not exclusive to area
youths, as many older women identify with the same problems.
Gerald expressed his concerns for the street corner hangouts and the fact
that these people need to find something to do with themselves. He
expressed that these people need help / a "push" from the community.
(including that this type of behavior should not be allowed.)
Amy explained that this has been discussed with Southside and the staff
has taken measures to promote a positive direction, ie; interacting with
youths, handing out job applications, and helping them complete them, and
providing an outreach program. She also went on to say that interaction
with police and youths sometimes helps solve problems. She explained
that an individual-basis effort is needed, as many youths are on the edge,
feeling that it is a "make it or break it" situation.
Alvin empihasized the need for the entire community to be involved,
including schools, churches, and parents. And that it should be strong,
ongoing effort.
•
The task force's intentions need to be understood so that there is a
positive reinforcement. The possibility of a youth(s), that is from this
area, joining the committee(s) has been suggested.
All mailings and telephone calls can be sent to the Mayor's office at City
Hall. (274-6501) or to Alvin's home, evenings.(273-8259)
It was agreed that all Steering committee meetings will be held on
Mondays at 4:15pm. The importance of regular and timely attendance was
strongly emphasized.
It was decided that we will be writing up our mission, goals and an
explanation of our identity for the public. However, because we are an
advisory body and do not make decisions, our meetings will not be open to
the press.
Minutes submitted by Renaye Southworth