Public Safety Committee

Agenda

1. Call to Order

   Chair Person Fox called the meeting to order at 3:30 p.m.

2. Roll Call

   Chair Person Fox introduced the committee members and non-committee members present. A quorum was established. *NOTE: All committee members and non-committee members present attended virtually, except Chair Person Fox, Vice Chair Peden, Council President James, and Council Member Triplett, who attended in Chambers.

3. Special Discussion
4. 1. SPECIAL DISCUSSION: CORRECTIONS UPDATE - DIRECTOR JERRY COLLINS, LOUISVILLE METRO DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS
   Discussion Item

   Chair Person Fox introduced Director Jerry Collins, Louisville Metro Department of Corrections ("LMDC"). Director Collins gave a status update on LMDC operations to date. The following also spoke to this item: - Chair Person Fox - Council President James - Vice Chair Peden - Committee Member McCraney - Council Member Triplett The following was discussed: - There were several remarks commending Director Collins for wearing his uniform as it bolsters LMDC officers' morale. - There were several questions regarding the current status of needed equipment for the LMDC officers. - There was a discussion regarding efforts to more stringently monitor and confiscate all contraband found in the LMDC facilities. - There was a discussion detailing the amount of contraband seized to date in the LMDC facilities. - The upcoming LMDC budget will allocate funds to purchase an ample amount of body scanners, safety sheers, flash lights, and phones. - LMDC has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to receive quotes on purchasing protective vests and digital phones for each officer. - The safety sheers allow an officer to intervene in possible suicide attempts. - There was a discussion regarding reciprocal communication between the Metro Council and LMDC so the department has what is needed. - There was a discussion regarding officer safety and inmate safety. - There were several questions regarding current leadership changes. - There were several questions regarding leadership plans going forward. - There was a discussion regarding changes within top leadership staff. - There was a discussion regarding building relationships and a foundation between LMDC, the community, LMDC officers, and the Metro Council. - There were several questions regarding retention of leadership staff from the previous administration. - There was a discussion about creating a new vision and mission within LMDC, which includes community and department input. - There were several questions regarding the departure of former staff members Deputy Director Steve Durham, Offender Services Manager Martin Baker, and Deputy Director Eric Troutman. - There were several questions regarding recruiting and retention plans for LMDC officers going forward. - There was a discussion regarding recruiting campaigns for former military and expanding marketing to other counties and mediums. - There were several questions regarding whether LMDC will include monies for recruitment in its FY23 budget. - There were several questions regarding any vacancies in the LMDC leadership staff. - The vacancies in LMDC leadership staff has been filled. - There were several questions regarding the impending Metro Council investigation of the previous practices of the LMDC and whether the current leadership will be cooperative. - There was a discussion regarding transparency in LMDC going forward. - There were several questions regarding addressing morale challenges with LMDC officers. - LMDC has launched an officer wellness and officer response team to address traumatic events. - This is a support tool to address the mental health of all LMDC officers and create a network of support. - There was a discussion regarding current and future changes within the LMDC such as removal of officer stations and repainting the interior to create a better work environment for all. - There was a discussion regarding the key of leadership is building relationships and creating a network and foundation of support. - This affords LMDC officers a voice and involvement in daily operations, scheduling, and a work-life balance. - There were several questions regarding the status of LMDC canine unit. - The canine handlers have been selected and scheduled for training so the expected launch of the program will be early to mid-June. - There was a discussion regarding the necessary steps to create a happy work environment and workforce going forward, which will improve LMDC officers morale. - There were several questions regarding lessons learned throughout Director Collins' career. - The ability to develop leaders, create relationships, and the ability to better communicate is a vital part of becoming an effective leader. - There were several questions regarding the current role of former Chief Amy Hess and Assistant Public Services Chief, Ron Heady. - Former Chief Hess is assisting with development of LMDC officer training plans and Assistant Public Services Chief Heady is conducting an analysis on the facility and its operations. - There were several questions regarding whether a recent evaluation of LMDC's contracted medical services has been completed. - There were several questions regarding how LMDC's contracted medical services staff performed during the recent inmate deaths. - LMDC launched a mental health evaluation this week. - There was a discussion regarding the increase of market level wages and additional medical staff to improve contracted medical services. - There were several questions regarding whether all Louisville Metro public service departments are able to communicate on the same radio channels.

5. Adjournment

   Without objection, Chair Person Fox adjourned the meeting at 4:08 p.m.

6. Note: Agendas are followed at the discretion of the Chair. While an item may be listed, it does not mean all items will be heard and/or acted upon by the Committee.
7. Page Break
8. Clerk(s)

   Lisa Franklin Gray, Assistant Clerk Sonya Harward, Clerk

9. Non-Committee Member(s)

   Council President David James (D-6) and Council Member Kevin Triplett (D-15)