INFORMATION #3 08-12-2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

City Police Department MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Thomas D. Zerwas, Chief of Police DATE: August 7, 2002 SUBJECT: JUVENILE LIAISON PROGRAM As I am sure the council is aware, the Elk River Area School District is again talking with the Sherburne County Sheriff's Depa~-ha-aent about getting free liaison service. This came as a big surprise to us as there was a signed Letter of Understanding between the City of Elk River and the school disthct that indicated we would provide liaison services until at least December 31, 2004 (see attachment). This has changed, however, and the school district has indicated that the last paragraph in the Understanding indicated that if the "crime levy increased beyond $2.00 per capita (which it has), this would allow renegotiation." During the last couple weeks, we have met and discussed this issue with school administrative staff and members of the school board. It boils down to the fact that if we want to keep the program, we will have to offer the same arrangement as Sherburne County or they will drop our services. I have met with my administrative staff and we strongly believe that we should keep the liaison program. We are, therefore, recommending that the money that has been budgeted for an undercover drug officer be used for the liaison program. The benefit that we realize from the liaison program is significant and warrants this recommendation. Assistant Chief Beahen will have survey results about liaison programs from around the State to hand out on Monday night. Even though a large majority of cities get reimbursement from their districts, Jeff and I have taken the position that we must stick to the recommendation that we are making to you. If you have any questions, give either one of us a call. TDZ/kma