CITY OF CENTRAL FALLS
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 1992 AT 6:00 P.M.
A City Council Workshop was held on the above date in the City Hall Council Chambers at 6:00 P.M.
Present:
Councilman Matthews
Councilman Ferri
Councilman Canavan
Councilman Paquette
Councilwoman Moreau
Council President Canavan presided.
The workshop centered around the needs of the Fire & Police Departments. Chief Coutu was invited to attend, however, due to a scheduling problem was unable to be present. The Council set Thursday February 27, 1992 for a Workshop with Chief Coutu at 7:00 P.M.
Council President Canavan questioned Police Chief Sasso regarding sick time in the Police Department they discussed the possibility of an Executive Order to all departments regarding excessive sick time.
Councilman Matthews asked if the Monday midnight to eight shift had the same number of policemen on duty as other days in the week.
Chief Sasso responded that there was an average of 4 patrolmen on duty.
Councilman Matthews asked what kind of problems would a 24hr. restaurant establishment create for the Police Department.
Chief Sasso stated that there was a potential for problems and explained in further detail.
Councilman Matthews asked what the Chief would recommend on these requests.
Chief Sasso recommended that no business operate after 1:00 a.m.
Council President Canavan suggested a trial basis for these applications.
Chief Sasso commented that he would recommend a trail period of six months if that is the desire of the Council.
Chief Sasso commented on the needs of the Police Department pointing out police cruiser, training for Police Officers, work on building and telephones as being some of the more important needs.
Councilman paquette questioned the number of dispatchers necessary.
Chief Sasso commented that at least four would be necessary.
Chief Sasso commented on grants regarding a Vets program that could help with the dispatchers.
Council President Canavan questioned an Ordinance related to Housing that was defeated by the previous Council and asked the Chief for his thoughts relative to this Ordinance.
Chief Sasso commented on sub standard housing and the problems created by such housing. He stated that the City presently has 37 vacant properties with approximately 50 more houses that could be boarded up. He spoke of the hazards to the City relative to these properties. He stipulated that the City Council must create ways to improve the housing standards.
Further discussion ensued on the housing problems.
Workshop closed at 9:00 P.M.
Elizabeth A. Crowley, Deputy Clerk
CITY OF CENTRAL FALLS
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
FEBRUARY 19, 1992
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
A City Council Workshop was held in the City Hall Council Chambers at 5:50 P.M.:
Present:
Councilman Matthews
Councilman Canavan
Councilman Paquette
Councilwoman Moreau
Councilman Canavan
Council President Canavan presided and asked Police Chief Robert Sasso questions related to the status of Police Vehicles.
Chief Sasso explained that there were 9 cruisers and 1 paddy wagon in use. He explained the shift details and the use of these vehicles on each shift.
Chief Sasso commented on the number of Police Officers on each shift. He further explained that there are unmarked vehicles for drugs and prostitution.
Chief Sasso commented that the police force consisted of 37 police officers of all ranks. He stated that he needed 39. He explained the contract and the minimum staffing clause. He talked about injuries, court time, overtime and the Radar Program.
Chief Sasso related that the force responded to 19,000 call last year.
Chief Sasso explained vacation time, paid sick leave and other concerns related to the police force.
Questions were asked about the radio system and telephone system.
Chief Sasso explained that all 24 patrolmen had portable radios and stated that there was a great need for a new telephone system in the police station and that the present system dates back to 1978 and is almost beyond repair.
Chief Sasso explained the need for a Warrant Squad that could bring about $50,000 in traffic violations. He spoke of the general image of the City and related the need for Council action on Housing matters to increase the abilities of the Minimum Housing Department.
Council President Canavan thanked Chief Sasso for his input.
Workshop adjourned at 7:20 P.M.
Elizabeth A. Crowley, Deputy