Title
Briefing and Review of Public Safety Response Calls
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Briefing only; no action requested
City Manager Recommendation:
Briefing only; no action requested
Report
Issue:
Whether to discuss the role of police in the community and the different ways law enforcement services are being delivered under new police reform legislation.
Staff Contact:
Rich Allen, Interim Police Chief, Olympia Police Department, 360.753.8255
Presenter(s):
Rich Allen, Olympia Police Department
Anne Larsen, Outreach Services Coordinator, Olympia Police Department
Background and Analysis:
The Washington State legislature passed a series of police reform bills in the 2021 legislative session that changed the role of police in the community and the way some law enforcement services are delivered. Because of the Public Safety Levy, The Olympia Police Department (OPD) has been able to diversify its resources and responders, including the expansion of Crisis Response Units and Designated Crisis Responders, who are licensed mental health professionals.
Depending on the nature of the service call, OPD’s response will vary. Rich Allen, interim police chief, and Anne Larsen, outreach services coordinator, will provide an overview of those responses.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The community has expressed interest in police reform.
Options:
1. Receive the report.
2. Do not receive the report.
3. Receive the report at another time
Financial Impact:
The City Council has expressed interest in expanding the Department’s Crisis Response Unit (CRU). This request aligns with the legislative intent surrounding recent police reform bills. It also supports the community’s desire to enhance alternative response to people in crisis. The total anticipated cost for salary, benefits, goods and services is $810,447.
Attachments:
None.