City Council Minutes 2020 06 16 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes June 16, 2020 Page 6 of 13 Erica Alexander, 908 Parkview, stated she would like more information on how much money is spent on officers in schools and if that is not going to happen, where that money would be spent. Sydney, asked how the City guarantees that complaints are handled without retaliation. Katie Lacz, 874 West Mulberry Street, asked the Council to seriously consider defunding the police and using some of that money on mental health professionals. She noted that while white people may have overwhelmingly positive interactions with police that may not be true for people of color. She noted this is an opportunity to spend money that was going to the police to other community services. John Willson, Louisville Fire Chief, stated the Fire District has had a very good relationship with the Police Department. He has stated he has worked with many law enforcement agencies over the years and this department is one if the finest he has worked with. Lydia Applly, an employee of Community Reach Center, stated she works with the Police Department as a social worker and has been extremely impressed with the Department and feel they are dedicated to help everyone, including people of color. Mayor Stolzmann thanked everyone for their comments and agreed that just because most people have positive interactions doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement or change and we need to be sure we address racism. She supports community conversations. Regarding funding she stated the Council listens to funding priorities every year when doing the budget and if people have suggestions on how to spend the money the Council is willing to listen. Councilmember Dickinson stated he has always had a good relationship with the officers, but that does not mean everyone across the spectrum people has the same relationship. He is excited for the conversation and where we can make it better. Mayor Pro Tern Maloney stated Chief Hayes has really changed the culture of our Department and noted that the accreditation process really helped us see where we needed improvements. We need to always listen to the people to see what changes can be made for the better. Councilmember Brown stated it is important to hear from the people of color in the community to know how we can do better and what needs to be addressed. This will be an ongoing dialogue in which all of us will participate. Councilmember Leh stated it is always a good time to take stock and see where we can change our policies and practices. The budget is the way we can affect the priorities of the Department and we look at that very carefully each year; it will be looked at with an eye to where funds may be better sent. There is always room for improvement.