|
|
|
|
MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Tuesday, July 13, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, and Police Chief Jon D. Tretter. Commissioner Paul Kent was unable to attend the meeting. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the June 7, 2010, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staff Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Travaglini has returned to work at full duty. No other issues at this time. B. Other Information - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Board of Fire Engineers requested a plain clothes officer to attend their meeting this evening at 7:00 p.m., due to a possible unruly subject on the agenda. The Chief said that he would be attending the meeting. C. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how the cruiser was damaged. Chief Tretter said that one of the officers was backing out of the sally port and misjudged the turn and damaged the side of the cruiser. D. The Commissioners were notified of the status of Retired Chief John K. Stimson. E. Commissioner Ross said that he recently read about a shooting in New Mexico where 2 individuals were killed and he asked the Chief, with all the businesses in town, do you have an emergency plan/strategy in place for an unexpected shooting incident, such as an ex-spouse going after their ex-husband/wife or another worker. Chief Tretter said that following Columbine, the police strategy for active shooters changed. Now the first responding officer must go into the scene immediately and try to put an end to the incident. Chief Tretter said the department is preparing for a major training for an active shooter at the Mall, which will also include the SERT team. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief how long would it take for the SERT team to respond to a Newington incident, and the Chief said approximately 10 minutes. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Step System Update - Commissioner Ross said that the Committee met with labor advisor Barry Cox recently. Commissioner Ross said that the final step system should be finalized in a month or so. Commissioner Ross said there has been some discussion about the disparity between the police chief's salary and the fire chief's salary. Barry Cox will review the job descriptions for both positions and make some recommendations. B. Drug Drop Box - Nothing new to report. C. Air Show - The Chief told the Commissioners he has been attending several meetings in preparation for the air show scheduled for August 2010. D. Bicycle Signage - Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if he was able to get signage for the bicyclists here in town. The Chief said that he will do so as soon as he can and have some suggested wording for the Commissioners to review before the signs are made. V NEW BUSINESS A. Cell Phones - The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is changing their cell phones from Sprint/Nextel to Verizon. The Chief said that Verizon offers better service for less money. B. Budget Print Out - The Commissioners reviewed the current budget report and signed the purchase order file. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for August 2, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Monday, June 7, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m. by Commissioner Ross. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the April 12, 2010, meeting. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staff Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Patrolman Travaglini has been out with knee surgery, non-work related. However, he is expected to be back on duty in the next 3 or 4 weeks. B. Other Police Commission Business - Commissioner Ross asked if the speed trailer is being used and the Chief said it is set up on Little Bay Road and to check out on his way home. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he received any feedback from the residents, and the Chief said no. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Step System Committee Update - Commissioner Ross said that the Committee is meeting June 24, with a labor expert to evaluate what has been discussed at the meetings and to be sure what the Town is attempting to do is legal and fair to all employees. The Town is attempting to come up with a 10-step system for all Town employees. Commissioner Ross said there has been a lot of discussion about the step increases, the longevity pay and the COLA. B. Drug Drop Box - The Chief said we have not received any prescription drugs to date. Commissioner Ross suggested the Chief mention the box at the next town meeting. C. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the sheet rock has been completed and the water is now hooked up in the garage. D. Electrical Safety Training - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief when the training with PSNH will take place. Chief Tretter said it will probably be sometime this summer during one of the regular departmental training sessions. Commissioner Ross suggested the Chief invite some of the surrounding Chiefs to attend. E. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is anything new to report on the ACO position. The Chief said that the officers are handling the calls and there have been no problems to date. V NEW BUSINESS A. Lightening Damage Report - The Chief told the Commissioners that a couple of weeks ago the police department received a lightening hit which damaged a lot of the department's electronic equipment. The Chief said that one item that had to be replaced was the copier machine and the replacement cost is $14,000. Chief Tretter said that we lost the booking camera system, telephones, his computer, ID making machine, and the cross-agency switch computer. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what the total of the damage was and the Chief said it comes to nearly $20,000. The Chief told the Commissioners that LGC said the equipment is covered by the town insurance and he has submitted all the information to Bea Marconi at the Town Hall for submission to LGC. B. Commissioner Ross said that some suspicious individuals approached him at his home about seal-coating his driveway. Commissioner Ross said he would give the business card to the Chief to look into whether it is a legitimate company. B. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. C. The Commissioners reviewed the budget report. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting is scheduled for July 12, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted to adjourn at 4:40 p.m. For J. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent **************************************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Monday, April 12, 2010,at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the following nominations for the year 2010-2011: Chairman - Commissioner Douglas Ross Vice Chairman - Commissioner Paul Kent Secretary - Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the meeting from the March 1, 2010, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staff Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that there are no problems. The Chief also said that Officer Stanley returned to work from his disability leave. B. Other Business - The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke to PSNH about safety training as requested by the Commissioners. The Chief said that PSNH is more than willing to put together training for the police. However, the Chief said they do not do training for the public. Commissioner Ross said it is probably worthwhile for the police, fire and town employees, to receive training, and perhaps the teachers also. Commissioner Ross suggested that the teachers be invited to attend the training. Chief Tretter said he will certainly do that and the training should be within the next couple of months. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the training could be video taped. The Chief said he would check. Commissioner Ross said the video tape could then be used for training of new employees, etc. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Speed Trailer - The Chief said that the speed trailer has been parked down on Newington Road and he plans to start parking it in 24-hour stints in other parts of town. B. Drug Drop Box - The Chief told the Commissioners that notification of the installation of the drug box has been put on the police department website. Information on the drug box will be included in the next town newsletter. C. Town Step Increase policy - Commissioner Ross said that he volunteered to be on the committee to discuss the implementation of a town step increase and asked if either Commissioner Hoyt or Commissioner Kent would have an interest in serving on the committee. Both declined. There was then discussion relative to the upcoming meeting and whether the Commission should support a "step increase" policy for the salaries of town employees. Commissioner Kent stated that step increase programs, coupled with cost of living entitlements tend to be inflationary. He added that pay increases beyond the cost of living adjustments should be linked to promotions. Commissioner Hoyt stated that the current "step increase" program, coupled with "longevity pay" is redundant. He stated that once an employee is eligible for longevity increases, the employee should not receive step increases. Commissioner Ross said stated that step increase programs (in addition to cost of living benefits) tend to be inflationary and that recent studies suggest that public employees now are compensated at a higher rate than employees in the private sector for similar work. (Salary, health benefits and pension). This disparity has placed pressure on the budgets of a number of jurisdictions (state and local) and that any decisions regarding pay policy must be sensitive to impact on the overall town budget. Chief Tretter said that the department’s step increase program amounts to an increase of the employees hourly wage by about 1.5% . He also suggested that the town could consider extending the longevity pay, which begins at year 10 with a $1,000 salary increase. Each year after the tenth entitles the employee to another $100, with increases terminating at 20 years ($2,000.) If you are here 30 years, once you get to the 20 year mark, you don't get more than the $2,000. V NEW BUSINESS A. Storm Recovery/Clean Up - Chief Tretter said that he attended a meeting in Hampton Falls with FEMA and the town clean up will begin this week. The Town of Newington is recorded their costs for clean up and will be receiving some grant money from the State. B. Town Meeting Results - There was discussion about the work proposed on town buildings. C. Other New Business - Commissioner Kent asked the Chief if there are laws governing bicyclists. The Chief told Commissioner Kent that bicyclists are required to follow the same laws required by motorists. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if we could post signs for the bicyclists to ride single file when being overtaken by a motor vehicle due to the narrow roads. Chief Tretter said that it is possible to have signs posted. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, May 3, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ******************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Monday, March 1, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Police Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the previous meeting with the changes recommended by Commissioner Ross. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staff Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Captain Newcomer's father is in the hospital and not doing very well. Commissioner Ross requested that the Chief keep the Commissioners informed on Capt. Newcomer's father's condition in the event there is a problem so proper steps can be taken. The Chief told the Commissioners that he met with 3 of the patrol officers so they could speak to him about some issues. The Chief told the Commissioners the meeting was beneficial and they were able to clear up some issues. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what type of issues did the officers focus on. The Chief said they have a few minor issues with the patrol supervisor that can certainly be worked out. Another issue one of the patrolmen brought up was talking politics in the workplace. Commissioner Ross said that the Federal government has some pretty stringent guidelines and discussing politics can create an uncomfortable atmosphere when strong political views are expressed. He said further that the work place is supposed to be free of that type of conversation, especially if an employee feels discriminated against and then something bad happens to them from a disciplinary aspect, they could feel pre-judged because of their political views. Commissioner Ross said some of these issues can be costly to an agency or town because it is viewed by the courts as misconduct tolerated by management. Both Commissioner Ross and the Chief agreed that the meeting was productive and the Chief said he has suggested that the patrolmen meet with him more often in the future. Other Commission Business - The Chief showed the Commissioners the jackets that were purchased for the department members. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Speed Trailer - The Chief said the trailer is ready and easy to use. The Chief said he will be training the officers on setting up the message board. The Chief said he has a lock and cable for the trailer so it can be left overnight at a location. Commissioner Hoyt asked if the trailer has been added to the town insurance and the Chief said that he checked on it again and he has given the administrator the information necessary to add the trailer to the insurance. There was discussion that the Smith's have requested that the speed trailer be set up on McIntyre Road when available. Commissioner Ross suggested that a log be kept on the different locations of the trailer and the results. B. Drug Drop Box - The Chief said the box has been installed and he has gone to Portsmouth Sign to have a sign made and, as soon as that is completed, we will be ready to notify the residents. Chief Tretter said that he and Commissioner Ross were unable to make the meeting in Rochester on Friday due to the storm. The Chief said that, according to the newspaper article on the meeting, some Chiefs were in favor of the drop box and some were not. Commissioner Ross said that he understands that anything of value requires a secure location, you have to have a policy, and there is extra work involved with the program. Commissioner Ross said he believes it is a worthwhile program when you take into consideration the number of people who are dying from prescription drug overdoses, not only in the Northeast but around the United States. Commissioner Ross said that generally kids' first exposure to prescription drugs is from a friend who gets it from a family member or they themselves get it from a medicine cabinet. Commissioner Kent said that a lot of times when a family member dies, the family members have prescription drugs that need to be disposed of. Commissioner Hoyt said that the public is being asked not to put them into the septic systems because traces of drugs are now being detected. The Chief said that he has to renew permission annually with DEA for the drop box, so he will send a report on what is being collected twice a year to the DEA. Commissioner Ross said he could write up an article on the drop box for the newspaper and the Chief said it will also be on the PD website. C. Town Step Increase Policy - The Chief said that he doesn't anticipate anything to report until after town meeting. V NEW BUSINESS A. Storm Recovery - The Chief said that there are still a few residents without power, but most of it was restored on Friday. The Chief said there is still tree damage that will need to be removed. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief have a representative from PSNH attend one of the department in-service training sessions to talk to the officers on what to do, how close can you get to a wire, how do you know if it is "hot" or not and what is the danger zone. Chief Tretter said he could speak with Peter MacDonald about the possibility of having a training session. B. Town Meeting - The Chief told the Commissioners that voting day is March 9, 2010, and Town Meeting is scheduled for March 13, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. There was discussion about Article 2. C. Other New Business - The Chief said that he has been asked to submit projects for the 2011-2016 Capital Improvement Plan. The Chief asked that the Commissioners submit any of their suggestions for the police department. Commissioner Kent asked if the department is set up to accommodate female officers. The Chief said it is possible that one of the upstairs rooms could possibly be used. Commissioner Kent suggested that we look into doing something to help alleviate the ice conditions which form on the outside of the roof. Chief Tretter said that the roof was re-shingled and then heat tape installed along the edge of the roof, which now causes the huge icicles that form. The Chief said we will need to address the issue of the drain line which freezes under the attic and also do something about the landscaping on the back of the building to help keep the water away from the foundation. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for April 5, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:50 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent
************************************************************************************************************************************ NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Monday, February 1, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, Chief Jon D. Tretter, and Mr. and Mrs. Al Smith of Newington Road, Newington, N.H. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. and welcomed Mr.& Mrs. Smith. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the January 4, 2010, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - Chief Tretter told the Commissioners that Officer Garvin has been out on disability with a non-work related back injury for approximately a week, but he is expected back to work this Thursday. B. No other business. IV OLD BUSINESS A. The Chief told the Commissioners that the speed trailer has been delivered and notification has been included on the website and a notice was sent to the Selectmen for inclusion in their newsletter to town residents. The Chief said that the notice on the website lets residents know that if they have a request, we would get the trailer out where it is needed. The Chief said that he will have a trailer hitch installed on the Explorer tomorrow so the trailer can then be placed around town. Initially the estimate from U-Haul for the hitch was $300, but the Chief said that Roland Bradeen will do the installation and wiring of the trailer hitch at a considerable savings. The Chief told the Commissioners that the speed trailer will be covered under the town insurance policy. B. Drug Drop Box - The Chief said that the contractor should have all the material he needs this week; the policy has been written and we need to do some broadcasting on the installation of the drug box. Commissioner Ross suggested that notification be done on the website, the selectmen's newsletter, and also perhaps mention it to town residents at the town meeting. C. Town Step Increase Policy - The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke with the Selectmen the other day and the feeling is that there is a need to make the steps universal and after the budget season they will address the issue. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Chief said he did not have any new business for the agenda. B. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has any information about possible repairs to Gundalow Landing. Commissioner Ross said the road has deteriorated to the point where it could damage vehicles as well as contribute to an accident. While residents along the road are aware of the hazard, visitors and/or operators of emergency vehicles may not be aware of the hazardous condition, particularly at night. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he knew what the status is for the scheduling of repairs to the road and the Chief said he has not heard anything, but the Chief said he would look into it. There was discussion that the highway department should place warning signs near the heaves in the road in order to warn motorists. Mr. Smith requested to address the Commissioners. Mr. Smith said that back when he was on the budget committee two years ago, the last discussion was that Brickyard Way was to be done and the next phase of that was to get into Gundalow Landing proper, because the amount of work that needed to be done was too great for one year and that is why, stated Mr. Smith, he pushed to have road repair funds established as a capital reserve. Mr. Smith said it is up to the road agent to determine which road they want to take care of first. Mr. Smith also stated, in reference to step increases, that 5 years ago he recommended the police department, the fire department and the Board of Selectmen to go to a standard wage grade - standard scale. Mr. Smith recommended that the Commissioners stay on the issue so it can be taken care of because the issue has been brought up for the past six or seven years. Commissioner Ross said that the Commissioners sent a letter to the Selectmen, with a copy to the fire department and the budget committee, stating that the Commissioners think it is appropriate to address the issue, because the fire department has one step system, the police department has another step system and it appears to be arbitrary as to whether someone gets a step increase or not. Commissioner Ross went on to say the letter asked the town to decide: (a) does the town want a step program; and if they do (b) let's see if we can get one that is uniform. Commissioner Ross said right now it is up to the Board of Selectmen to address the issue. Chief Tretter asked Mr. Smith if he would consider being on the committee to discuss the possibility of a step program and Mr. Smith said he would consider it. Mrs. Smith requested that it go on record that she appreciates the work that Diana St. Laurent does on the department website, keeping up the daily log, the minutes of the meetings, information on new equipment, etc., and she said it keeps her informed on a daily basis. Mrs. Smith said that on the Gundalow Landing project, they did approve and award a bid on the road which is in the Selectmen's minutes. Mrs. Smith asked the Commissioners if they were able to add money to their budget to cover the step increases in this year's budget request. Commissioner Hoyt told Mrs. Smith that approximately $9,000 was added to cover the steps. Chief Tretter said that initially it was his understanding that there was to be a zero increase in the 2010 budgets, so no steps were implemented. Mrs. Smith stated that as a tax payer in town, she wanted to commend the Commissioners and the Chief for being responsible and holding the line on the budget as requested. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if all town employees get longevity pay, and the Chief said that after 10 years you are eligible to receive longevity pay and Commissioner Hoyt said he likes the idea of the way the federal government does steps where, after a certain number of years, you are no longer eligible for steps because you qualify for longevity pay. There was discussion about different step programs that could be considered. The Chief said after the town meeting in March a committee is supposed to be formed to discuss the issue. Commissioner Ross asked the Smiths if they had any other issues they would like addressed. Mr. Smith said that he would like to see the new speed trailer over on McIntyre Road near the basketball court to help slow down speeders between the hours of 5 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 pm. The Chief said that he has found from talking to other police departments, that the residents in the towns with these speed trailers really are pleased to have them. Mr. Smith stated that, in his opinion, the Greenland speed trailer has helped to slow down traffic on Greenland Road and Portsmouth Avenue. Mrs. Smith asked the Chief to explain what it means by "directed patrol" in the daily log. The Chief told Mrs. Smith that when he receives complaints about certain areas or roads in town, he has the officers patrol those areas during specific times, etc., which is considered a "directed patrol." Mrs. Smith wanted it recorded that she felt it was an insult to the Commissioners and the police department when the selectmen attempted to change the adopted ordinance in reference to Fox Point. Mrs. Smith said that whenever she has asked for help from the police officers or the police commission, they have always responded every time immediately. Commissioner Ross thanked Mrs. Smith for her positive comments about the department and the commissioners. There was a brief discussion about the amount of Asplundh trucks which have been parked up the Old Stone school. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners is scheduled for Monday, March 1, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ********************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Monday, January 4, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:15 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the December 7, 2009, meeting with the suggested changes made by Chairman Ross. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing update - The Chief told the Commissioners there is nothing new to report on the staff. B. 2009 Budget Update - The Chief provided the Commissioners with a print out of the 2009 budget figures. The Chief said that Bea Marconi would have an accurate figure for the benefits section, and the salaries line has about 5% left and the operating budget has about 18% left to be turned in to the Town. There will be a significant amount turned back to the town again this year. C. Other Police Commission Business - Chairman Ross asked the Chief if anything new is going on the Great Bay Wildlife Refuge and the Chief said it is still quiet. Chairman Ross asked the Chief if there have been any problems at Fox Point and the Chief said it has also been quiet recently on the Point. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Speed Trailer - The Chief said the $12,000 check for the speed trailer should be ready this week and the purchase will be completed and the speed trailer will be delivered shortly after that. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief send a bulletin for inclusion in the Selectmen’s letter to residents. The bulletin would advise residents and businesses of the new purchase, what the trailer is designed to do, to include the data collected for later review by the department, and that the department would appreciate input from them relative to areas in Newington where there appears to be excessive speed issues. The Chief also said that he will be doing an SOP for the speed trailer. B. Drug Drop Box - The Chief told the Commissioners that the police department has received approval from the DEA to install the drug drop box and Coastal Remodeling will do the installation shortly. C. Stimulus Money - The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke with the LGC representative about the stimulus money. The representative told him that, unfortunately, approximately 75-85% of the requests for "shovel ready projects" were denied by the Federal government, and that most of the money was given for road repairs, culverts, etc. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. Other New Business - Chief Tretter stated that prior to putting together the 2010 NPD budget proposal, it was his impression that due to the recession and lack of a cost of living increase (per the federal government); that the Selectmen did not want to have town departments increase base salaries of town employees this year. Consequently, the current NPD proposed budget does not increase base salaries. However, the Chief has since learned that the NFD has provided "step increases" to some or all of the FD personnel and that he (Chief Tretter) was asked by the Selectmen why the NPD has not included "step increases" in the base pay of NPD personnel. General discussion ensued among the Commissioners regarding the "step increase" policies. Specifically, the Commissioners noted that it is not clear if the "step increase policies" of town departments are consistent in terms of number of steps, time frame for eligibility of a step increase, and percentage amount of the step increase. Commissioner Ross stated that inconsistencies in step increase policies within the town will lead to morale issues among town employees. He stated that the Selectmen should review current policies to determine if a "step increase program" is necessary and if so, to develop a uniform step program policy that applies to all town departments (similar to that of the Federal government). The Federal "step program" allows for 10 step increase for each pay grade. If a federal employee performs satisfactorily s/he is eligible for an annual step increase for each of the first three years that the employee holds the specific position. After the third step increase, roughly 3 years, the employee is eligible for a step increase after every 2 years in that pay grade. After the 6th step increase, (or roughly a total of 9 years at the pay grade, the employee is eligible for a step increase after every 3 years at that grade for the remainder of their career. Thus, step increases are not every year for all employees, they are linked to satisfactory performance, and they are not automatic, as employees are eligible to be recommended for a step increase by their immediate supervisor. On occasion, due to budget constraints, the federal government has withheld "step increases" and has frozen promotions. Normally however, (and barring performance issues) employees are provided the step increase when eligible. The Commissioners agreed that if step increases for NFD personnel are approved by the Budget Committee, the NPD should modify its budget request to include step increases for eligible NPD employees. Chief Tretter was asked to determine what the NFD policy is for the step increases; specifically did all or a portion of NFD personnel receive a step increase, the percentage of the increase, and the time frame for step increase eligibility. Further, the Commissioners agreed to discuss the issue of step increases with the Budget Committee at the January 6th meeting. The Commissioners also agreed to work with Selectmen on developing a uniform "step program" if the Selectmen believe that a "step program" is appropriate for town employees. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Police Commissioners is scheduled for February 1, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. IV ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ******************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Monday, December 7, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at approximately 4:10 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the November 9, 2009, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners there are no issues with the staff. B. 2009 Budget Update - The Chief said that the 2009 budget year is drawing to a close and there are no issues. There is approximately $30,000 remaining. The Chief told the Commissioners he would like to purchase SERT vests for the two Newington officers on the team for approximately $4,000.00. C. Other Information - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there are any problems on the Great Bay Wildlife Refuge and the Chief said no. The Chief told the Commissioners there was a resident who needed assistance with gas for her vehicle. The Chief said he arranged for assistance for the resident. There was discussion about residents who may need assistance with electricity during the winter time, and Commissioner Ross suggested the Chief let the town hall know that there may be an issue there. Chief Tretter said that the Health Officer is aware of the situation. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - The Chief said the garage is finished and the gas has been installed. Hart will be putting in the heater sometime soon. B. School Zone Lights - The Chief told the Commissioners that a 7-day clock has been ordered for the school zone lights and Maldini will install it when it arrives. C. Speed Trailer - The Chief told the Commissioners he spoke with John Kleg of Highway Safety in Concord and was told the grant should be approved and the process will be complete sometime early in January 2010 with the funds coming from the 2009 budget. The Chief said that the grant process goes through the Selectmen and they have approved the purchase. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief where the reimbursed funds would go, and the Chief told Commissioner Ross that the funds from the grant go back to the general fund. Commissioner Ross asked what the time frame is for when we will have the trailer, and the Chief said once he orders it from the company, it will take about 2 weeks for delivery, so we should have it by the end of December. D. Drug Drop Box - The Chief told the Commissioners that he has some people coming in to give estimates on installing the box. The Chief said they will be going through the brick in the lobby into Diana's office. The Chief said he has had a couple of conversations with Matt Addington in Boston about the drop box program, but he was not familiar with the program. Commissioner Ross said the Diversion portion of DEA would be more familiar with the program and the people would be Nancy Coffee and Mark Robbins. The Chief said that Nancy was one of the signatures on the Seabrook approval. The Chief said that the Special Agent in Charge is Steven Derr and Commissioner Ross said that Nancy is the Diversion Program Manager. The Chief said he sent the material down to Matt. The Chief said once he hears from DEA we will go ahead with the construction of the drop box and Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief put a notice in the Selectmen's newsletter letting residents know about the program. Commissioner Ross said that thousands of people a year are dying because of these prescriptions and that the statistics exceed the number of deaths due to motor vehicle deaths in most states. Commissioner Ross said that he could give the Chief some statistics when he is ready to write his letter to the towns people as to why we are doing it, such as the number of deaths in the state, and why they should use the service. The Chief brought up the possibility of residents from surrounding towns using the drop box. Commissioner Ross said that we should not turn anyone away, but that we should make the surrounding police departments aware that their residents are using the drop box and suggest that perhaps they may want to consider doing this type of program. E. Shovel-Ready Projects - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the shovel-ready project is "a dead issue." Chief Tretter said he believes it is a dead issue, and Commissioner Ross said that he believes the garage was a project that should have been considered for the program. Commissioner Ross suggested that perhaps the Chief should write a note and let them know that he is disappointed that the Town was not approved for the funding. Chief Tretter said that he believes there were many towns who did not receive funding. V. NEW BUSINESS A. 2010 Budget - The Chief said that the 2010 Budget has been sent over to the Board of Selectmen with no changes from the 2009 budget. B. Change in Benefits - The Chief said that he wanted to let the Commissioners know that the Selectmen are proposing a change to the prescription program to offset the 14% increase. The change in the prescription program will save about 5% bringing the increase of health benefits down to about 9% or 10%. The Chief said that he got notice today that there will be a warrant article introduced to have employees pay into their benefits. Commissioner Ross said that is why he suggested a while ago that we try to do something along those lines for new employees and grandfather existing employees into the current system. The town should still be able to recruit new and qualified employees under a system in which they contribute a portion of health care costs in light of current depressed economic conditions. The downturn in the economy, however, has also impacted a number of residents and one responsibility of the Commission is to ensure that the department operates both effectively and efficiently within a budget that is affordable for residents. Commissioner Ross asked if it made sense to introduce a warrant article which requires only new town employees to contribute to a portion of their health care benefit costs, and which grandfathers existing town employees from having to contribute to health benefits. He noted that Newington's policy on paying 100% of health care costs may have induced current town employees to accept positions in Newington rather than other employers. Commissioner Hoyt asked what the deadline is for submitting articles and the Chief said the middle of January. Commissioner Hoyt said that the last few times the issue has been brought up at town meeting, he has always spoken up and said that existing employees were hired with this benefit package and it should stay that way, but new hires could be hired with a different benefit package. Chief Tretter said that he would not like to see the employees have a change in their prescription program and then also have to pay into their health benefits. Commissioner Hoyt asked that the Chief try to find out what is involved in the warrant article process, and also stated that he may speak with some of the residents who are in favor of changing the town's current policy on health care benefits. Other New Business - The Commissioners discussed the news article on the former Chief of the New Castle Police Department. There was discussion about the department applying for accreditation. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has heard anything more about the ACO position. The Chief said he is waiting to get a proposal from Portsmouth PD on the ACO position. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting is scheduled for January 4, 2010, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:55 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************************ NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Monday, November 9, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. Commissioner Hoyt was unable to make the meeting. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:06 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING Commissioner Ross requested that the second sentence on page 2 of paragraph E be removed. With that amendment and on a Motion Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the October 13, 2009, meeting. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners there are no staffing issues. There was some discussion about the H1N1 virus. Commissioner Ross asked if Police Standards & Training has any recommendations since the law enforcement officers work with the public. The Chief said that it is recommended that EMS and first responders get the vaccine, however it is not available yet. B. Budget Update - The Chief said the 2009 budget is looking good for this time of year. C. No other police commission business. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - The Chief said the garage is coming along very well, the brick work is done, they will be doing the paving, possibly tomorrow, and they are going to wrap the soffit and other trim in aluminum sometime soon. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has heard anything further about the "shovel ready projects" and that the Chief mentioned at the last meeting they have no record of our request in Concord. The Chief said Bea was going to look into it, but he has not heard anything back from her yet. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief continue to look into it, since the paperwork was submitted. Commissioner Ross said what's disturbing is that you sent a request up there, that you had a discussion with the people in Concord, and they said get it in and we'll include you and now they claim they never got anything. The Chief said he believes a lot of people who submitted requests didn't get any money. B. Animal Control Regional Meeting - The Chief told the Commissioners that he and Selectman Jack O'Reilly attended a meeting with Portsmouth today regarding the possibility of having a regional ACO person. Several other towns were invited to the meeting, but only Newington attended. Commissioner Ross and Chief Tretter agreed that it would be a good idea, the cost would be minimal and the officer would handle the calls our officers are unable to handle. The Chief said that Tim Brownell of Portsmouth is going to write up a proposal for him to look over. It is possible we will use this idea, and Selectmen O'Reilly appeared to be in favor of it. C. School Zone Lights - The Chief said that he has been unable to contact Larry Wahl and he maintains the school lights. The Chief said he will continue to try to contact Larry. D. Speed Trailer - The Chief said that he has spoken with John Clegg of the Highway Safety Committee in Concord and they do have 50/50 matching grants up to $6,000 available for the speed trailers. The Chief said Mr. Clegg will be sending him the paperwork for the grant. The Chief said that Dover has just recently purchased one which cost around $11,500. The trailer has a message board noting the speed limit and the speed of the on-coming vehicle, a warning message to slow down, it has a solar panel, it registers date and time, number of cars and speed. The Chief said he will look into it further and get back to the Commissioners before the close of the 2009 budget. E. Drug Drop Box - The Chief said he has spoken with the Lieutenant at Seabrook Police Department and he sent me a copy of their policy and the letter they sent to the DEA requesting permission to collect unused prescription medication. There was discussion about finding a way through the brick in the lobby area and installing a secure box inside the police department. The Chief said that Lt. Dunn at Seabrook said he would have the person who installed their box contact us and for a few hundred dollars we could have a box installed. Commissioner Ross asked what would be done with the drugs and the Chief said once a month the box would be cleaned out, the pills would be inventoried and then they would be taken to an incinerator. V NEW BUSINESS A. 2010 Budget - The Chief said the budget committee has asked for a 0% increase in the operating budget this year, so it will be a fairly short process. However, the Chief noted that the benefits' expenses will increase. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, December 7, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:55 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************************************ NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Tuesday, October 13, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Commissioner Ross at 4:10 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING A. Commissioner Ross asked for a motion to accept the previous minutes. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the August 12, 2009, meeting. B. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Mrs. St. Laurent is on disability but should be back to work by the next meeting. The Chief said he has worked out an operating plan so we would not fall behind while Mrs. St. Laurent is out. There are no other personnel issues at this time. B. Budget Update - The Chief gave the Commissioners a copy of the current 2009 budget and said that we are in good shape for being in the middle of October. The Chief said that he has no concerns at this time. The line items that are usually of concern, vehicle maintenance, fuel and over time are all in good shape. C. Other Police Commission Business - Commissioner Ross told the other Commissioners that he sent the Chief an e-mail about the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators which puts out RX news which is an update of any situations involving diversion of pharmaceutical drugs, whether its robberies from pharmacies, from pharmaceutical warehouses, or programs that have been instituted, which hopefully reduce the level of diversion and abuse of pharmaceuticals. Seabrook was mentioned because they have instituted a drug box program at the police department where they have a secure box which you can access from the hallway, no questions asked, and anyone can drop off extra prescription drugs from their cabinets and now these tablets are no longer available for diversion or use by teenagers, adolescents or whatever. Kids are getting away from marijuana because of the smell of smoke on their clothing and they view prescription drugs as medicine and they don't see it as harmful, but some of these drugs are powerful opiates. In the first week I think they got over 500 tablets, including oxycodone, which is one of the more powerful opiates, percocet, vicodin, etc. I thought the Chief might want to consider installing a secure box in Newington like what they have in Seabrook. What they did in Seabrook is a local guy volunteered to make a secure box and they put a hole in the wall and once a day or once a week they collect the drugs and then destroy them. They got permission from the Drug Enforcement Administration to collect these unused pharmaceuticals. Commissioner Ross asked the other Commissioners if they have any thoughts about the program. Commissioner Hoyt said that he watched an announcement on TV that a lot of the hospitals now are setting up a drop-off for unused prescription drugs. Commissioner Hoyt agreed that having a place to drop off the unused drugs is a good idea. Chief Tretter said that here in Newington we would have to have a very secure drop-off since we don't have a dispatcher in the station 24 hours a day. Commissioner Ross suggested that the hours of drop off be limited to business hours, so it can be monitored. Chief Tretter agreed that the idea itself is a very good one. Chief Tretter said that he will try to get speak with someone at Seabrook about their program and keep an eye out on how it is working. D. The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke with the Attorney Generals office about the economic stimulus money and they cannot find anything up there with my name, the Town of Newington, or Bea Marconi's name. The Chief said the town hall is closed today and Bea is the one who actually sent the request so he will have to wait until tomorrow to speak with Bea, but I know the paperwork went out. E. Commissioner Ross said that a town resident asked him what the town policy is for open-air or flea markets in town. The Chief told Commissioner Ross that the building inspector, Charlie Smart, is working on the issue. F. Commissioner Kent said that he received a complaint from a town resident inquiring why the police did not notify him about the training exercise conducted by the fire department near his residence. The Chief said it was in fact a fire department exercise but that in the future we would work with the fire department to ensure that the notification process is better. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - Not a lot has happened since the last meeting. The brick work is supposed to begin this week. B. Animal Control - The Chief said it has been quiet. The Selectmen asked the Chief to have the ACO vehicle brought over to their parking lot to be auctioned off. The Chief said he told the BOS he would have the stats over to them soon and they can make the decision whether or not they want to fill the position. C. Little Bay Road Improvements - The Chief said that the highway department has been doing some clearing and there is a little more visibility. The Chief said that anything more than what has already been done would take a tree service. Commissioner Ross suggested that perhaps in the future the town could consider paving a side section of the road for pedestrians and bicyclists. V NEW BUSINESS A. Other New Business - Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if he was able to get an estimate on the cost of the speed trailers. The Chief said the cost is between $9 or $10,000 depending on what you get. The Chief said he would love to have one of the trailers. Commissioner Hoyt said that depending on the budget, he would like to see the department purchase one of the trailers. Chief Tretter said there are funds available through grants from the Highway Safety which will pay half of the cost. B. Commissioner Hoyt asked who is on the highway safety committee and if anyone has considered replacing the school zone warning lights with ones that are digitally programmed. The Chief said that he would contact Larry Wahl about the lights. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting date and time is Monday, November 9, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent *************************************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners on Wednesday, August 12, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:10 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief said there is nothing new to report on the staff; no one is out sick and summer vacations are nearly over. B. Budget Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the budget is in good shape for this time of the year. There was a brief discussion about the rising price of gasoline and the Chief commented that we still have over 70% of the budget left and it is already August. C. Other Commission Business - The Chief updated the Commissioners on the Grand Jury case and disposition on former Newington Police Officer Thomas Gordon. D. Commissioner Kent told the Chief and the other Commissioners that he received a phone call from a Town resident. The resident asked why the Chief does not wear a uniform and also wanted to know why the ACO position has not been filled. Commissioner Kent said that he told the resident that the appointing of the dog officer is the responsibility of the Selectmen and not the police. Commissioner Kent said that the resident is upset with the ticketing of people down on Fox Point. Commissioner Kent said that he told the concerned resident that the Selectmen are the ones asking for the enforcement down on Fox Point. Commissioner Ross said that he read about the Fox Point situation in the memo that the Selectmen sent out and that he also noticed that the Selectmen can issue passes which sounded like they could issue passes to people who don't live in town. Commissioner Ross stated that it made him wonder what the criteria or guidelines will be for issuing these passes. Chief Tretter said that he believes these passes will be issued to boaters who might be out after the designated hours or for weddings or other events being held on the Point. The Chief said that the officers have a designated patrol for the Fox Point area, and they have not encountered any problems. The Chief said that the Board of Selectmen is in the process of working on a new ordinance and if they want the ordinance enforced, the police will enforce it, but the BOS will be dealing with the complaints. Chief Tretter said that ultimately the ordinance will have to be brought up for a vote at Town Meeting. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the garage will be delivered this Friday and the crane will be here on Tuesday to assemble the garage. B. Animal Control Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the officers have been handling calls and most of them have been animals left in vehicles. The Chief said probably in October or November he will have all the stats for the commissioners and they will have to re-visit the issue at that time and see if we want to continue as we are or hire a dog officer. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if any residents have complained about not getting a response on an animal complaint and the Chief said he has not received any complaints. Commissioner Ross said the chief question is have any residents complained in terms of how long it takes to respond or the level of the service when you do respond? The Chief said he has not received any complaints from town residents. Commissioner Ross said, so we have no complaints and what will be the savings on the budget? The Chief said approximately $6,500. Commissioner Kent said he feels it is the responsibility of the Selectmen and it is their budget and he did not want to see an officer unable to respond to a criminal complaint quickly because he is out on an animal call or is transporting a dog in the cruiser and has no place to leave the animal to respond to the criminal complaint. The Chief said that at the end of the six months, if the Commissioners want the position can be turned back to the Selectmen. However, his personal opinion is that the position works well with the police department because it is so closely related to law enforcement. The Chief said the police always get involved with issuing summonses. The Chief said that the appointment of the position would be the responsibility of the Selectmen with consideration to his recommendation. V NEW BUSINESS A. Detail Rate Increase - The Chief told the Commissioners that the State has increased the percent of retirement charged to the towns on detail rates by about 5%, going from 13.66% to 19.51% that the Town of Newington has to pay into the retirement system. The Chief said that right now our detail rate is $32/hour plus 20% administrative fees. The Chief said he called Greenland and they pay their officers $38/hour and Rye officers get $40 an hour. There was discussion about increasing the hourly rate for the officers and increasing the administrative fee to cover the cost of the NH retirement increase. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to increase the hourly detail rate from $32 per hour to $36 per hour with an increase in the administrative fee from 20% to 25% to cover the cost of the increase in New Hampshire retirement placed on detail rates. This brings the total billed to vendors to $45.00 per hour. B. Town Civil Action - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Town has joined the Municipal Association and approximately 140 cities and towns suing the State for the increase in the NH retirement on detail rates. The Association contends that the increase violates the law. The basis for the action is because the State is making changes to the retirement for people who are "vested". C. Commissioner Kent requested that the Chief contact the Highway Safety Committee to make some necessary changes to Little Bay Road. There was discussion about the lack of visibility in areas around Little Bay Road. On a Motion by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted unanimously to have Chief Tretter draft a letter to the Highway Safety Committee requesting that they consider contacting the Board of Selectmen and recommend the following safety improvements to Little Bay Road as follows: - Conduct a site review along Little Bay Road from the area of the transfer station west to the driveway at 339 Little Bay Road and the town owned property along Little Bay Road adjacent to 224 Little Bay Road. This review to include a review of town records concerning right of way. - Improve driver and pedestrian visibility through these areas, by cutting back existing foliage along the road in the Town right of way. - Research the possibility of widening the road in these areas to allow for safe passage of pedestrian and bicycle traffic. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The September meeting has been cancelled, so the next meeting date and time is scheduled for October 5, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt by Diana St. Laurent **************************************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, July 6, 2009, at 4:00 p.m., at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the June 1, 2009, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief said there are no personnel issues at this time. B. Budget Update - The Chief provided the Commissioners with a print out of the 2009 budget. The Chief said that we are in good shape. The Chief said we are half way through the year and still have 67% of the overtime budget remaining, and 76% of the fuel budget remaining. C. Commissioner Ross discussed the hazards of bicyclists/tricyclists on the roads in Newington and the fact that several roads in Newington are quite narrow. In particular, Little Bay Road in the area of the transfer station is both narrow and the curves limit a motorist's view. The tricyclists tend to drive in a portion of the travel lane normally reserved for motorists, creating a hazard to themselves as well as motorists. There was discussion about some type of signage and the Chief said that he has looked into this issue previously with the Chief in New Castle and basically the bicyclists are asked to obey the laws and not to impede traffic. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any extra activity at the GBWLR and the Chief said everything is quiet at this time. The Chief told the Commissioners that another motorist was not paying attention and drove into the electronic gate at the end of Nimble Hill Road. The gate was completely destroyed this time. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the construction crew is ready to pour the garage floor as soon as the weather dries out. The Chief said that he is waiting for another estimate on the building and then when the estimate is approved, it should take about 3 weeks to construct the building itself. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he thought the garage would be completed by the end of the summer. The Chief said that he hopes the garage is up and finished by early fall. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that he is tracking the animal control calls on a regular basis and so far it has not been a problem for the officers to handle these calls. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Newington Commissioners has been scheduled for MONDAY, AUGUST 10, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:25 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, June 1, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the May 4, 2009, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Appelbaum returned from disability about 2 weeks ago, and the department is up to full staff again. B. Other Police Commission Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he was aware of the section in the Portsmouth Herald called "Disses and Kisses" where citizens write positive or negative comments. The Chief stated that he is aware of the first comment and he contacted the individual who works here in Newington. Initially the individual said she was willing to speak further with the Chief and when Lt. Qualls attempted to set up an interview with her, she refused to cooperate. The officer involved wrote out his statement and it appears that the officer's comment was taken "out of context." On the second article, the Officer involved read the comment in the newspaper and spoke with the Chief. The incident actually happened back in February in Portsmouth and there was nothing the officer could do for the individuals, so the officer referred them to Portsmouth Police since the incident occurred in their jurisdiction. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that N.E. Cable News Network will be airing a program on the NH Parole Board and will specifically mention the attempted murder case involving David Edwards which occurred in Newington several years ago. Edwards was convicted and sentenced to 10-20 yrs. in NH State prison. The reporter doing the story has attended the parole hearings held for Edwards, who is out on parole at the present time, and she is interested in doing a news report on the parole board. D. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief about the accident on the Spaulding Turnpike over Memorial Day weekend. The Chief told Commissioner Ross that a pedestrian attempted to cross over the highway, was struck by a vehicle, and died later at the hospital. The Chief told Commissioner Ross the accident happened on Sunday and the victim passed away on Monday. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the garage is coming along; the measurements have been done, and he is waiting for a contract from Middleton Lumber on the building. The Chief said the building panels go up with a crane within a couple of days. Commissioner Ross asked if the panels are finished and the Chief said they are unfinished. The Chief said when they get the final elevations on the building he will get a couple of estimates from some masons for the brick work. B. Animal Control Officer - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief the status of the position. The Chief said the Selectmen did not have a problem with his delaying the selection process for 6 months. The Chief told the Commissioners he has sent letters to the six applicants telling them of his decision and that he would be in touch with them after the six-month evaluation period. The said the evaluation period will give him a chance to see if we do or do not need to fill the position at this time. The Chief said he has asked the officers to be diligent in doing a call for service notation whenever they respond to an animal call. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he contacted the Fletchers with his decision. The Chief said that Ruth Fletcher called him regarding another issue and he told her about the decision to delay filling the position for six months. C. 2010 Vehicle Purchase - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Ford Fusion has arrived. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief what vehicles will be available for cruisers in the next few years. The Chief said that Hillsborough Ford said they will be manufacturing the Ford Crown Vic through 2011. Commissioner Ross asked if the Fusion will be replacing the Explorer and the Chief said we will be keeping the Explorer and the Fusion will replace one of the old black Ford Crown Vics. The Chief said we will not have to purchase any new equipment for the Fusion. We will take the radio out of the Explorer and put it in the Fusion, swop the radio from the old Crown Vic into the Explorer, and put some type of blue lights in the Fusion. The Chief said he is trying to keep it relatively inexpensive. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Chief said he met with the director of a business which deals with autistic children located in Portsmouth at this time. The Chief said the business, Birchtree Center, is looking to move to Newington at the old heart health institute site and have already met with the Planning Board and the Board of Adjustment in Newington. The Chief said they work with several autistic children and it is a very controlled environment with one-on-one teaching. The Chief said he spoke with Portsmouth PD and they have had no problems with the business. The Chief said he sent a letter to the Chairman of the Planning Board stating that he has no problem with the Center moving into Newington. B. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. C. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there have been any problems in town and the Chief said he has received a few complaints about the Census takers and their GPS equipment. C. There was a brief discussion of the coming turnpike construction scheduled to begin in the spring of 2010. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, July 6, 2009, at 4:00 pm at the Police Department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:45 pm. For F. Jackson Hoyt by Diana St. Laurent ******************************************************************************************************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, May 4, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, Chief Jon Tretter, Newington citizens George and Ruth Fletcher. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes of the April 6, 2009, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Appelbaum broke his trigger finger and will be out on disability for at least two weeks or more. Commissioner Ross asked if Officer Appelbaum would return to "light" duty and the Chief said he would have to see what the doctor has to say. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Travaglini will be at training for the SERT team for the next two weeks. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Travaglini was successful in completing the rigorous training and was accepted as a member of the Seacoast Emergency Response Team. The Chief said that the department now has 2 of its members on the SERT Team. B. Other Police Commission Business - The Chief told the Commissioners that the full-time officer's appointment for Officer Travaglini is ready to be signed, along with the part-time appointments for Officers Sullivan and O'Connell. Commissioner Ross asked that the Commissioners meet with Officer Travaglini at some point to congratulate him on completing his year of probation.
- 2 - The Chief told the Commissioners that he wrote letters for two of our officers. One letter is to Officer Travaglini congratulating him on his acceptance on the Seacoast Emergency Response Team and the other letter is to Officer Kerekes, recognizing his quick response to a potentially life threatening emergency. Officer Kerekes was credited with responding to an unresponsive female operator. Officer Kerekes found her insulin in the vehicle and was able to give a quick diagnosis to emergency personnel, resulting in a positive outcome for the operator. The female operator sent a thank you card to Officer Kerekes stating that his actions saved her life. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief send a letter to the female involved, letting her know that Officer Kerekes was recognized for his actions. Commissioner Ross suggested the Chief ask the Selectmen to include a write-up on the two officers in their mail outs to the Town residents. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that work is proceeding on the garage. Commissioner Ross asked if the Chief if he has heard anything from the State on the stimulus money and the Chief stated he has not. B. IMC Cross Agency Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that all the towns in the grant are now connected to the cross agency hub and the system is working very well. C. Computer Wiring - The Chief told the Commissioners that all the new wiring for the computer system has been completed. V NEW BUSINESS A. ACO Vacancy - The Chief welcomed the Fletcher's attendance at the meeting. Chief Tretter explained that Jan Stuart, after 15 years as the ACO, has resigned her position effective April 30, 2009. The Chief said that the ACO position has been in the police department budget for approximately 7 or 8 years. There was discussion about whether the appointment to the part-time position is the responsibility of the Board of Selectmen or the police department. Commissioner Kent stated that initially the Board of Selectmen made the ACO appointment. Chief Tretter said that he would research the State RSA's to determine who the proper authority is to do the appointment. Commissioner Kent suggested that the Chief also check with the Municipal Association for legal advice. Ruth Fletcher said that only one of the surrounding towns has an animal control officer; Greenland, Stratham, New Castle and Newfields all have the police handle the animal control position and Rye has a part-time ACO at $18 per hour. Ruth Fletcher stated that she was told that the ACO only handles dogs and cats and a wildlife person deals with other animals, so Mrs. Fletcher questioned why have an animal control officer when the police could deal with the domestic animals. Mrs. Fletcher stated the ACO stipend of $6,500 is excessive and it is the second highest stipend right under the Selectmen. Chief Tretter stated his hopes to have the position filled by June 15th and Mrs. Fletcher questioned if there really is a need for an ACO position. Chief Tretter stated that he wants to keep the ACO position. Chief Tretter said that he would research the matter and get back to the Commissioners and the Fletchers in a couple of days. - 3 - B. The Commissioners signed the full-time officer's appointment for Matthew Travaglini and the part-time officer's positions for Michael Sullivan and Anthony O'Connell. C. Other New Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Fletchers if they had any other concerns they want to discuss with the Commissioners. There was some discussion about vehicles speeding down Little Bay Road and the area of Gundalow Landing and vehicles not stopping at the stop sign near the Fletcher's residence. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for June 1, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent,oHo the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:55p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent
NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, April 6, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. ORGANIZATIONAL APPOINTMENTS The Commissioners voted unanimously for the following appointments for the 2009-2010 offices: 1. Chairman - Douglas A. Ross 2. Vice Chairman - Paul Kent
I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Douglas Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the March 9, 2009, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief said there is nothing new to report on the staff. Everything is going along fine right now. B. Other Police Commission Information - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has heard anything further from the Selectmen on filling the vacant position of Co-Director for Emergency Management? The Chief said he has not heard anything official from the Board of Selectmen. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has received anything in writing from the Board of Selectmen making him the Director. The Chief stated that he has not received an official letter as of yet. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that work is scheduled to begin on the garage next week with the cutting down of the trees and then Hartman will begin the site work and the foundation once he receives the initial down payment from the Selectmen. Commissioner Ross asked which design was accepted by the Selectmen. The Chief said that the garage will be brick to match the rest of the complex. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the garage construction could be included in the stimulus package. The Chief said that the garage was included in the stimulus package. Commissioner Kent stated that the project is "shovel ready" and Commissioner Ross said it has something to do with public safety, so it may qualify. The Chief said the town has received money from FEMA for the ice storm damage, but he has not heard anything yet about the stimulus package. The Chief said he is not sure if the Selectmen budgeted enough money to complete the brick work on the garage this year, but the foundation will have a "lip" to accept the brick work when the funds are available. B. Town Meeting Results - The Chief said there were no problems with the police department budget at town meeting, nor were there any problems with the ACO position. C. Other Old Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how things are going on the Wildlife Refuge. The Chief said, other than the roads being in poor shape, everything is quiet. V NEW BUSINESS A. IMC Cross Agency Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Seacoast Computers will be here on Friday, April 10, 2009, at 1:00 p.m. to install the hardware for the Cross-Agency program. The Chief explained that this new program will enable all the member departments to "share" internal information through the IMC software program. Each department sets the parameters of the information they want to release to other agencies. Commissioner Kent asked the Chief if any counties other than Rockingham will be involved. The Chief said Rochester PD, which is in Strafford County, is involved in the program. The Chief told the Commissioners that for this year the expenses are paid by a grant, so there is no expense to the Town. However, next year the department will have to budget an annual fee of approximately $1,500 to cover the contract with IMC. B. Department Computer Wiring - The Chief told the Commissioners that we have been having some problems with workstations losing their connections to the file server. The Chief said that Roger Royce came out and ran some tests and the wiring from the file server to the workstations appears to be failing. The Chief said that we will be having 12 or 13 computer wires and connections replaced for a cost of approximately $1,200 - $1,300 which will work well with the installation of the cross agency computer. C. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. D. Other New Business - The Chief told the Commissioners that, due to employee lay offs, the department has a security detail, with a plain clothes officer, for one week at a business on the PDA. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for May 4, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:50 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ********************************************************************************************************************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, March 9, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the February 2, 2009, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief said everything is fine with the staff. B. Other Business - Commission Ross told the other Commissioners that he spoke with Chief Tretter about the funds available in the stimulus package from the U.S. government and inquired if the Chief thought funds would be available to the Town for their "shovel ready" projects. The Chief contacted the Selectmen and they came up with a few projects that might qualify. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any further update on this matter. The Chief said that the Town submitted a list of six projects to the two groups handling the stimulus; the Attorney General's office and the Local Government Center. The Chief said that an e-mail was sent out in January 2009 about the funds, but he did not receive it. However, the Town was still able to submit their projects for consideration. Commissioner Ross said that he read the money is supposed to be spread out evenly and the key will be if it is a "shovel ready" project. The Chief said that the Town submitted requests for the new highway garage, the police department garage, and a couple of paving projects in town. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Old Business - Commissioner Ross asked if there is anything new at the GBWLR and the Chief said nothing at this time. B. Other Old Business - The Chief said that he received a call from a Town resident about a telephone scam and the Chief requested that some additional information be added to the police department website. C. Commissioner Ross asked if his suggested changes to the Emergency Management website have been discussed. The Chief said there is an OEM meeting this Wednesday and the Committee would discuss his changes at that time. V NEW BUSINESS A. 2009 Budget - The Chief said the last step for the new budget takes place at the town meeting this Saturday and he does not anticipate any problems. The Chief told the Commissioners that Town meeting is at 1:00 this Saturday with the school budget beginning at 1:00 and the other business following at 1:30. B. Group II Retirement (125% computation) - The Chief said there has been no change to the retirement at this time. Commissioner Hoyt said that he read the retirement age would be changed from 45 years old to 50 years old and 25 years of service instead of 20. C. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief look into having some signs made for the police department similar to the signs the Town Hall has put up. D. The Chief told the Commissioners he will be on vacation next week and Captain Newcomer will be Acting Chief in his absence. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:30 p.m. For J. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ***************************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, February 2, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt was unable to make the meeting. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the January 5, 2009, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners there is nothing new to report on the staff. Commissioner Ross presented a publication with detailed research on town budgets. The graph depicted the elementary school costs in Newington as the lowest, with the police department budget second lowest. Commissioner Ross said he was not certain about the accuracy of the figures but he said they appear fairly accurate. B. Other Police Commission Business - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Selectmen have voted to change Emergency Management from 2 co-directors to one director. Commissioner Ross asked if the co-director's position is a paid position and the Chief told him that each director receives a stipend of approximately $3,300. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any provision through emergency management to feed the residents of Newington for 2 or 3 weeks in an emergency, should the food supply be disrupted. The Chief said that this issue is being discussed with the OEM members but it is unlikely that any one shelter would be able to provide an indefinite amount of food for an extended period. The Chief said there has been discussion about obtaining military food rations to have available. All other foods would have to be recycled and/or donated to other organizations for use prior to expiration dates on the food items. The Chief said that the food issue is being discussed and will be dealt with sometime this year. There was agreement that individuals have to be responsible for preparing for storms and other emergency situations. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there are any problems at the Great Bay Wildlife Refuge. The Chief said there is nothing to report at this time. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he knows of any other businesses at the Mall that are closing and the Chief said none this time. V NEW BUSINESS A. 2009 Budget - The Chief told the Commissioners that the meeting with the Budget Committee went well. Commissioner Ross asked if there was discussion about the garage proposal and the Chief said no. B. Group II Retirement - The Chief told the Commissioners that he gave the budget committee some preliminary figures on what it would cost the Town if a few of our officers retired with the 125% computation in effect. The Chief said the Town is going to put $100,000 into a separation account. C. Public Hearing - The Chief said that there is a public hearing on the budget this Saturday, February 7, 2009, at 1:00 p.m. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION There next meeting of the Police Commissioners is scheduled for Monday, March 2, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:55 p.m. *********************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, January 5, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner Jack Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MINUTES On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the December 1, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that things are fine with the staff. Commissioner Ross mentioned that he read in the newspapers that the City of Boston will be cutting their budget by 10% for this coming year and Chief Tretter mentioned that Stafford County will be laying off some of their state personnel. B. Other Police Commission Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has heard anything about the proposed construction work to be done on the bridge. The Chief said he hasn't heard anything definite but they are proposing closing Exit 2. The Chief said that the preliminary plans call for closing Exit 2 and building an overpass over the turnpike to allow a left-hand turn on to Pease via Arboretum Drive. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the department will be working traffic details once the construction starts. The Chief said there will probably be work details to assist with traffic and he would need to increase the line item for details depending on approximately how long the project will take. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how much the department charges for cruisers tied up all day on traffic details. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department charges $10 per hour for each cruiser. Commissioner Kent asked the Chief if the county would be hired for any of the work. The Chief told the Commissioners that in a small department like ours it is difficult to fill the details on a daily basis, so he contacts the Rockingham Sheriff's Department to help fill the detail shifts. The Chief said that the agreement with State Police is that they handle the turnpike and our department handles exits and side roads. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2008 Budget Review - The Chief told the Commissioners that the department has approximately $28,000 left over in the budget. The Chief told the Commissioners that the books will be closing sometime in January 2009. B. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Selectmen have accepted the bid for the site work which is $32,000, and encumbered approximately $18,000-$19,000 towards that work The actual construction of the garage will be put before the residents at Town Meeting. Commissioner Kent said that this may be a good time to build the garage because people are looking for work and the prices may come down. Commissioner Hoyt said that in order for the garage to match the other town buildings (with brick) it is expected to be more expensive. C. Commissioner Ross asked if anyone was familiar with the new law which was passed mandating that towns set aside a percentage of their residential area for "work force housing" valued at no more than $260,000 and apartment rentals for no more that $1800/month. There was a discussion on whether or not there were any areas that would be available in Newington. Commissioner Ross said this may be an issue the town will have to face down the road. V NEW BUSINESS A. 2009 Budget - The Chief said he has already met with the Board of Selectmen and will meet with the Budget Committee on Wednesday, January 7, 2009, at 7:00 p.m. The Commissioners said they will plan to attend the meeting with the Chief. B. Group II Retirement (125% Computation) - The Chief said that he has spoken with the representative at the Local Government Center and was told there is a bill dealing with this issue but it has not been assigned a number yet so the rep from LGC was unable to tell the Chief much. The Chief said he will be prepared to present the Budget Committee with a figure for what it would cost to fund the police department if the 125% computation remains. VI NON-PUBLIC SESSION On a MOTION by Commissioner Ross and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commission voted unanimously to go into Non-Public Session at 4:35 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter according to RSA 91-A:3 II. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted to come out of Non-Public Session at 4:55 p.m. No votes or motions were taken. On a MOTION by Commissioner Ross and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commission voted unanimously to seal the minutes from the Non-Public Session . VII NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The Newington Police Commissioners will meet again on February 2, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. VIII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:58 p.m. For J. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent
NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, December 1, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. Commissioner Hoyt was unable to attend. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:07 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commission accepted the minutes of the November 3, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief said there is nothing new to report on the staff. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if anyone is anticipating retiring. The Chief said he has not been informed of any officers intending to retire at this time. B. Other Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is anything new happening in and around Town and the Chief said nothing at this time. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is anything new with the GBWLF and the Chief said he has driven down there lately and it is fairly quiet. There was discussion about the maintenance of the roads throughout the wildlife refuge and the Chief told the Commissioners that the roads are monitored by the PDA and the City of Portsmouth is responsible for any needed maintenance. There was a brief discussion about the economy and a variety of stores which will be closing in the near future. Commissioner Ross mentioned the two restaurants on Woodbury Avenue which have been closed for a while and asked the Chief if there are any problems with vandalism. The Chief said that the officers make regular patrols of the two buildings and there are no problems so far. The Chief said that the building which was formerly Uno's is now the 24-Hour Emergency Veterinary Clinic and the former Smokey Bones building is still for lease. Commissioner Ross expressed concern that vacant buildings could become shelters for transients and homeless people as the economy worsens. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2008 Budget Review - The Commissioners were provided with a copy of the 2008 budget print-out. The Chief said that the line item for vehicle tires is over by $1,000 and the fuel will be over by approximately $5,000. Other than those two items, the budget is in good shape. Mrs. St. Laurent mentioned that the sick leave buy out has been paid for the year and leaves a balance of around $5,300. The Chief told the Commissioners that the town has been paying $12,000 a year for internet service for 3 buildings - fire, police and the town hall - $1,000 a month which does not include the phone charges. The Chief said he contacted Comcast and Fair Point to see if their prices were more reasonable and then we spoke with our current provider and told them we were considering other cost-effective options. Within less than a week, our provider had reduced the annual cost of the T-1 connection by nearly half. The Chief told the Commissioners that the police department went from $225 a month to $100 a month for internet service so we saved the Town around $7,000 a year. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief who spear-headed this matter; who identified the amount of money that was saved? The Chief said that he and Mrs. St. Laurent did. Commissioner Ross congratulated both the Chief and Mrs. St. Laurent for their work. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what feedback he got from the other departments when he told them about the savings. The Chief said they were very pleased about it. B. Garage Update - The Chief said it is not moving along that quickly. He told the Commissioners that he has only gotten one estimate back from the contractors he contacted and that estimate is for $32,600 for the building. Commissioner Ross asked if that includes the brick work and the Chief said no, it is for a type of pre-fab garage which does not include the site work excavation or concrete. The Chief said the estimate is for a 28 x 40 Hudson garage package. Commissioner Ross asked if the money would be taken from the Capitol Improvement funds. The Chief said he thought perhaps the funds from this year's building maintenance would be encumbered and then they would ask for the approval at Town meeting to complete the project. The Chief told the Commissioners he will be meeting with the Selectmen next Monday night and he would discuss the plans for the garage funding at that time. IV NEW BUSINESS A. 2009 Budget Review - Commissioner Ross stated that he missed the 2009 budget review back in November and he asked Commissioner Kent what his sense was on the budget proposal and the salaries. The Chief reminded the Commissioners that he gave them copies of the budget - one with the 5% recommended by the Selectmen - and one with the 5% plus one step which is 1.5%. Commissioner Ross asked if everyone was given a step last year and the Chief said yes. The Chief said both budgets are still below what we asked for last year in total money. Commissioner Kent said that he feels both budgets are very reasonable and he believes Commissioner Hoyt felt the same way. The Chief told the Commissioners that when Commissioner Hoyt called in to say he could not make the meeting, he wanted it passed on that he is in favor of the straight 5% budget. Commissioner Ross said that the 5% is a good raise and where the employees all received a step last year, he is inclined to go with the straight 5% budget also. The Chief said that he agrees that the 5% is a generous raise. There was as MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross to present the 2009 budget with the 5% COLA to the Selectmen and Budget Committee. B. Group II Retirement - 125% Computation - The Chief told the Commissioners that due to an error by our legislators, the pension reform has the potential to cost the Town of Newington, as an employer, a huge amount of money. The Chief said that he received a letter from Budget Committee Chairman Larry Wahl asking the departments to be aware of this possible problem for the Town. This new legislation requires that the towns and cities are responsible to pay coverage for whatever amount over 125% of your base salary an employee earns. The Chief said that at first he did not think the 125% would affect the Town. However, the Chief said that he took 3 officers and an average of their 3 highest earning years and did the 125% computation. He said that one of the officers would cost the Town over $104,000 at retirement. The Chief said that the NH legislature is meeting to discuss what changes can be made to the new law. The Chief said that with this new legislation, the towns are actually paying twice for the same money. Commissioner Ross said that if there is no change to the legislature, the Commission will have to consider implementing policies to protect the Newington taxpayers. Commissioner Ross requested that the Chief keep the Commissioners up to date on this matter and to put it on the agenda for the next meeting. Commissioner Ross stated that he would write a letter to Larry Wahl thanking him for the information. C. The Chief said that he will be meeting with the Board of Selectmen next Monday, December 8, 2008, at 6:30 p.m. to present the 2009 budget request. Commissioner Kent said he would be there for the meeting and Commissioner Ross said he would try to make it also. D. Other New Business - On a MOTION by Commissioner Ross and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted to award Chief Tretter and Diana St. Laurent a Merit Award of $750 for saving the Town over $6,000 annually on the internet service. Both Commissioners expressed their thanks for a job well done and Commissioner Ross said he will draft a letter to Chief Tretter and Diana St. Laurent on the merit award for the Commissioners to sign. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for January 5, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Ross and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent **************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, November 3, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. PRESENT: Commissioner Paul Kent, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Kent called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the October 6, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners he had nothing to report on personnel. B. There was no other police information/business. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2008 Budget Review - The Chief presented the Commissioners with a current copy of the 2008 Budget. The Chief said we are in good shape for the 2 months left this year. Chief said that obviously the fuel has gone over the budgeted amount; overtime will be fine. B. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the site plan has been completed and he is waiting for the actual building estimates to be turned in. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if they would be moving the gas lines instead of the water main and stated that the gas line would be easier to move since it is not buried as far down as the water main. The Chief said that if the garage construction does not start this year, he will ask the Selectmen to encumber the funds for next year. V NEW BUSINESS A. Purchase Order Review - The Commissioners reviewed and signed the purchase order file. B. 2009 Budget Review - The Chief told the Commissioners he is giving them two versions of the 2009 budget. The Chief said the Board of Selectmen set the COLA at 5% and last year the COLA was 2.4%. Commissioner Hoyt asked if it was last year that a couple of the patrolmen got 1 or 2 steps and the Chief said that it was a couple of years ago. Commissioner Hoyt said that the Federal COLA has been set at 5.7%. The Chief said the second version has the 5% COLA plus the annual step increase (1.5%) and both versions of the 2009 budget with the 5% and the step increase results in a decrease to the budget. The Chief said with the 5% COLA the budget is down by -1.61% and with the 1.5% step, the budget is down -0.68%. The Chief told the Commissioners that the health care this year has actually gone down just less than a percentage point; dental coverage went up about 2% which is not a huge amount. The Chief said basically we have not added to the budget, but moved money within the budget where we thought we needed to increase the amounts. The Chief said he did add additional money to the gasoline line because we will be over by quite a bit this year and also added money to the line item for tires for the cruisers. Commissioners Hoyt and Kent expressed their concern that the cost of gasoline will rise again this coming year. Chief Tretter discussed the rising cost of snow tires and regular tires for the cruisers. Commissioner Hoyt asked what items are charged to the miscellaneous line and suggested it would be good to have an itemized print out in case there are any questions by the budget committee. The Chief said he moved some money into the Equipment contract line to accommodate the on-line backup system for the file server we will be trying out this week. Once again the Chief stated that the second budget draft reflects a 5% COLA and one step increase of 1.5% for each employee. The Chief said the Town is putting together a step system for their employees and they are looking at 5% plus another 2% or so with the step increase. Commissioner Kent asked the Chief for the average salary of the officers and the Chief said the lowest man, with the 5%, will make $44,158 annually, $1700 a month, and $21.23 an hour. The Chief said he would provide the Commissioners with a copy of the 2008 pay scale so they can compare it to both the 2009 with 5% and no step; and 2009 with 5% and 1 step of 1.5%. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, December 1, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted to adjourn at 4:45 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ********************************************************************************************************
NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, October 6, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the September 2, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners the department is up to full staff and he is unaware of any officers leaving or retiring at this time. B. Other Police Commission Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is anything new to report on the Great Bay Wildlife property. The Chief said it is quiet at this time. The Chief told the Commissioners that a town resident had complained about hunters crossing into the PDA property. While speaking with the resident, a hunter came out of the woods with a deer, and it was determined that the hunter shot the deer on private property and not on PDA property. II OLD BUSINESS A. 2008 Budget Review - The Chief gave the Commissioners a copy of the 2008 budget print out. The Chief told the Commissioners that the fuel line is down to $872, which will last less than half a month, the price of gas is coming down; and otherwise we are in good shape; the overtime has slowed down. The Chief told the Commissioners that it will cost $2,000 to have the rust repaired on the Explorer and he would like to keep the vehicle for another 2 years. B. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke with the Board of Selectmen and they want the garage to match the other buildings in the area, so it will be constructed of brick. The Chief told the Commissioners that David Hislop will be doing a site plan, with three different options and three different prices, and the Selectmen will decide that tonight. The Chief said that dig safe is pretty much done. The Chief told the Commissioners he had two local contractors come in and they will be submitting their estimates shortly. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any problem with the gas lines and Chief Tretter said there is no problem with those lines and they have been located up in the embankment. The Chief said we will have to move the building a little to the left and the Chief said he has some concerns about the water and they still have to locate that. Commissioner Ross asked if the Selectmen are supportive of this and the Chief said yes, and that they suggested that we try and get the excavation and concrete work done this fall with the money in the building account which is about $24,000. Commissioner Ross agreed that it would be good to get the project started and Commissioner Kent asked if the Selectmen were assuming that they residents would support them on this. Commissioner Kent stated that he thought it would be prudent to let the residents know at Town Meeting that there are plans to add a garage to the police department site before starting construction. The Chief agreed that perhaps it would be best to talk with the Selectmen again before starting. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if there is money in the budget and the Chief said that the funds have already been acquired. V NEW BUSINESS A. 2009 Budget - The Chief told the Commissioners that we are scheduled to meet with the Selectmen on December 8, 2008, to discuss the department's proposed 2009 budget and then on January 7, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. to meet with the Budget Committee. The Chief said that we do not have official word on the COLA or the cost for health benefits so we are unable to prepare any figures until after the middle or end of October. The Chief asked the Commissioners if they felt the need to set up another budget review meeting in late November before we meet with the Selectmen. It was the general consensus of the Commissioners that they would review the 2009 budget at the regularly scheduled meeting in November and decide then if they need another meeting prior to the regularly scheduled commission meeting in December. The Chief told the Commissioners that the Town is installing a remote control gate at the end of Nimble Hill Road near the town garage. All the town vehicles will be equipped with a remote control for opening and closing the gate. VI NON-PUBLIC SESSION On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to go into Non-Public Session at 4:22 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter according to RSA 91-A:3 II (a) Personnel Matter. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to come out of Non-Public Session at 4:30 p.m. No motions were taken during Non-Public Session. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to seal the non-public minutes. VII NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, November 3, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. VIII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:35 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St.Laurent ********************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Tuesday, September 2, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the August 4, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is up to full staff. Commissioner Ross asked if there are any anticipated retirements and the Chief said he does not anticipate any retirements in the near future. B. Other Commission Information - Commissioner Ross said that he read an article in the newspaper talked about a controversy involving swat teams, special tactical teams, we have throughout the state and apparently there are quite a few of them and there are no standards on how they should be set up, or operating policies or guidelines. Apparently, as is normally the case when these things are discussed, there was an incident so now I guess Commander Booth of the State Police is commenting on them and the Attorney General is looking into it and it looks like there is going to be some sort of review as to how they are set up. Commissioner Ross said he thought it would be a good idea for Chief Tretter to basically give us an overview as to how this is run, his assessment of it and how he feels this might impact on the swat team here. The Chief said he is part of the SERT team which is made up of 11 communities throughout the Seacoast, who pay annual dues depending on the population of the town. Newington pays $2500 each year. Each Chief from the 11 communities is on the board of directors for the team; we meet once a month to discuss everything from the by-laws to what's happening training wise, if we had a car out this month, we get an after action report from the commander and I am the treasurer and I do a treasurer's report. We operate off by-laws which I believe we got initially from Los Angeles and we have been in operation since 2000. I think that we are the best emergency response team in the state training wise, equipment wise and personnel wise - top notch. Any of the competitions we go to we come in the best, if not, we are in the top two. We only take the best people; they have to pass a physical test, a shooting test, physical agility test. Its not a group of guys, these are motivated people, the Chief from the community they come from has to approve their being on the team and realistically, our current SERT commander, Steve Dubois; it should be a full-time job for him. Unfortunately its not, we are not like Los Angeles which has a SWAT team dedicated 24/7. The discussion for us as a result of this inquiry is currently, if we were to be asked by South Hampton PD to respond down there and help them, as it stands now, we would go. South Hampton is not part of the SERT team, but we are looking at changing that too and respond to only those towns that are paying dues and are part of the SERT team. The Chief stated that the team is very well run and he enjoys being part of the team. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief who does the review if a shooting occurs, the Attorney General's office? The Chief said yes that office would do a review along with the major crime unit at the Attorney General's direction. Commissioner Ross asked if the team leadership would do an independent review and the Chief said yes. Other Commission Business - Commissioner Ross asked if the Chief heard anything about the Fire Department issues. The Chief said that the Fire Marshall's report is available for release. IV OLD BUSINESS A. The Chief and the Commissioners reviewed the 2008 budget figures. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that 2-Way Communications checked the gun rack locks in the cruisers and said all the contacts are working fine. The Chief said he doesn't anticipate anymore problems in the future. C. Commissioner Hoyt said that he got a call from a resident asking a few questions about the ACO position and inquiring about officers transporting individuals into Portsmouth and Dover and asking to have more detail about these types of incidents put into the daily log on the website. D. The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke with the ACO and the Chief feels it is best to leave the ACO under the police department. The Chief said he would meet with the ACO when budget seasons begin to see how much needs to be budget for animal emergencies. E. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that he is meeting with the Selectmen tonight at 6:30 p.m. to get approval from the BOS to have the garage built on police department property. The Chief said they checked the property with the back hoe and there does not appear to be any ledge in the area. The Chief said that he will inquire from the Board about having the garage match the brick work on the police complex. Commissioner Ross suggested that the BOS be presented with three different price options to consider. V NEW BUSINESS The Chief told the Commissioners that the Sunset road race is scheduled for this Saturday. The Chief told the Commissioners that the race is a fund raiser for the Newington elementary school. The Chief told the Commissioners that we have applied for a Gulf fleet card for the town vehicles and we still have the state cards, which he uses frequently. Commissioner Ross asked if there are any problems at the GBWL Refuge and the Chief said no problems at this time. Commissioner Kent asked the chief if he has received any complaints about a motorcycle speeding on Little Bay Road and the Chief said no, and he requested Commissioner Ross to call the police department the next time he sees the motorcycle speeding. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting is scheduled for October 6, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:45 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ******************************************************************************************************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners held on Monday, August 4, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. Commissioner Paul Kent was unable to attend the meeting. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the July 7, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that we are up to full staff and the overtime is beginning to level off. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if any officers are planning to retire. The Chief said that he has not heard anything to that effect. B. Other Police Commission Information - None IV OLD BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the 2008 budget print-out. The Chief told the Commissioners that the only line item of concern is the fuel. The Chief said he estimates we will be around $7 or $8,000 over budget by the end of the year. B. Fuel Memo to Selectmen - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he sent a memo to the Board of Selectmen letting them know we will be over budget on fuel. The Chief said he has let the BOS know and he said they were fine with it, as long as the rest of the budget is in order. C. Garage Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that he has been working with Charlie Smart and coming up with some options for adding a garage. The Chief told the Commissioners that there is $24,000 in our building fund and we believe that will pretty much cover the costs of the structure. The Chief said it may be a little more than that. Commissioner Ross asked if it would be a steel structure on a concrete slab, and the Chief said it would be on a slab. The Chief said initially his feeling was to put the garage near the back, but that would interfere with snow removal. The Chief said he is going to get a backhoe to come and check to see how ledge might be under there and then we would set the building right off the edge of the pavement facing this building and make it a brick-red color to match our building. There won't be any heat in the building and we can run electricity from the pole right here. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief to consider doing an architectural drawing for the town so if anyone has any major objections they can air them or they might want to make something fancier and they could give us more money because we will have to live with whatever we do for a long time and it will change the view of the complex here. The Chief said the plan is to, if the money is available at the end of the year, to encumber it and by then we will have some plans come budget time. Commissioner Ross said presenting it to the budget committee is a good idea and perhaps have a picture of the proposed building. The Chief said we are going to do a couple of ideas. One is a pre-fab building and the other is stick built and obtain 3 quotes on the building. Commissioner Ross asked if he is considering steel and the Chief said he will consider anything. Commissioner Ross said that the buildings around town look nice and are well-kept and anything we add here should really look nice. The Chief agreed and said he would like to put a brick building to match the police department. Commissioner Ross suggested the Chief could present three options for consideration by the Town; the one he thinks would look most appropriate and the cost of that, plus 2 other suggestions. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Chief told the Commissioners that there will be a driving course on September 22, 2008, through the Local Government Center and Steven's Driving School. The course will be held at Pease. B. Other new business - Commissioner Hoyt said that a couple of people have asked him how they could become the animal control officer. They were wondering if the Chief appoints the ACO or who does. Commissioner Hoyt said that he told them the Board of Selectmen appoints the ACO, even though that position is under the police department budget. There was discussion about the availability of the ACO and how often the police take calls for the ACO. Commissioner Ross asked if the calls for the ACO come through the police department or go directly to the ACO. The Chief said it varies, that some calls come to our dispatch and some go directly to the ACO. The Chief said that the ACO gives him quarterly reports of the calls she has responded to. Chief Tretter said that he is going to ask that the Selectmen to take back responsibility of the ACO position and that way they could handle the budgetary issues. The Chief said that he will have a discussion with the ACO about the issues. The Chief said that generally the program is working okay, generally she's around and if she needs us she calls. Commissioner Ross asked if there are any issues with the cruisers and whether the new location for the radar is working out. The Chief said that Officer Appelbaum told him today that the rifle mounted on the cage behind his head has now twice fallen out of the locked holder and fallen on him and that Lt. Qualls told him that he stepped on the brakes to stop and the rifle fell and hit him. The Chief said that 2-Way Communications is going to repair the rifle lock. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for September 2, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:30 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ***************************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners held on Monday, July 7, 2008, at the Newington Police Department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the June 2, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is at full staff. B. Other Police Commission Information - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there were any problems with the dumpster issue. The Chief said no. Commissioner Ross said he noticed there are some hand-written signs on the dumpster telling residents to rinse bottles, etc. The Chief told the Commissioners that there will be a tri-annual crash exercise on Pease this coming fall. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief about some property being turned back over to the Town from the Air Force. Commissioner Kent said that the portion considered the "Town Forest" has been given back to the Town. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2008 Budget Review - The Commissioners reviewed the budget figures. The Chief said that the fuel expenditures will definitely go over the budgeted amount. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if it would be a good idea to send a letter to the Selectmen. The Chief agreed that it is a good idea and he will do that sometime after the summer months, to let them know the situation. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the cruisers used on details are still left running during the entire detail. The Chief told the Commissioners that with the new light bars it is no longer necessary to keep the cruisers running. The Chief said that he told the scheduling officer to keep an eye on the overtime line. Once vacation time is over, it should ease up somewhat. The Chief told the Commissioners that some officers have approached him about increasing the rate for detail pay. Commissioner Hoyt asked if there is a town ordinance requiring an officer when working in town and the Chief said there is. It was the consensus of the Commissioners and the Chief that the detail rate remain the same for now. B. Firearms qualification - The Chief told Commissioner Ross that he needs to go through the second firearms course required by NHPS&TC. The Chief said he would arrange a morning at Major Waldron's to finish the course. V NEW BUSINESS The Chief told the Commissioners that he would like to start the process of having a 2-bay garage built. The Chief said it has been part of the proposed Capital Improvement plan since Retired Chief Stimson was here. The Chief said that the department could really use the extra garage for impounded vehicles, barricades, firearms equipment, and other storage to help clear up the sallyport area. The Chief said he envisions a unit with two over-head doors not attached to the police department. Commissioner Ross said that the garage should be made of low-maintenance material and something that looks nice. The Commissioners agreed that the Chief should start the process to get the garage. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, August 4, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:35 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************************ NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners held on Monday, June 02, 2008, at the 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. Commissioner Hoyt was unable to make the meeting. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the May 5, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Travaglini has nearly completed his FTO training and seems to be doing very good. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Travaglini is familiar with the computer software from his previous employment. B. Wilcox Open House - The Chief told the Commissioners that he has been invited to an open house and clam bake at Wilcox Industries this Friday, June 6, 2008, beginning at noon time. The Chief said he will be taking Lt. Qualls and Cpt. Newcomer with him and he checked with Wilcox to see if the Commissioners could also attend. The Chief said that Wilcox said the Commissioners are also welcome. Commissioner Ross said he has a meeting in Boston that day, but he would try to stop by for a few minutes. C. Other Police Commission Business - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Seacoast United Way Road Race will be held in town on June 19, 2008 beginning at 6:30 p.m. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Cruiser Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that he wrote a letter to the Selectmen requesting that they release funds from the police department's Capital Expense account to pay for the installation of the new consoles in the two other cruisers. The Selectmen approved the release of funds and the consoles have been installed in the cruisers. B. 2008 Budget Review - The Commissioners reviewed the expenditures to date. The Chief said everything seems to be right where it should be for June. The Chief said the overtime goal, with Lalime's resignation, was to be at about 50% in June, which is pretty close. The Chief said the fuel item will probably go over budget. Commissioner Ross said we would do everything we could to conserve. C. Firearms Qualifications - The Chief told the Commissioners the firearms qualifications will be held on June 11, 2008, at the range in Somersworth. The Chief said he will try to find out where Commissioner Ross can purchase "clean fire" ammo. The Chief suggested he try the Kittery Trading Post. Commissioner Ross said he tried the trading post and they didn't have it and he tried Riley's in Hooksett and they didn't have it either. D. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how things are going on the GBWLR and the Chief said at this time it is quiet. Chief Tretter and Commissioner Ross discussed who has jurisdiction over the property at the WLR and the Chief said that, according to NH law, the local law enforcement agency has concurrent jurisdiction over federal property in the State. V. NEW BUSINESS A. Other New Business - The Chief mentioned that he received a call from a selectperson today in reference to a problem with the recycling bin at the town garage and the possibility of complaints from a resident that improper items are being thrown in the recycling bin. There was a lengthy discussion of the legality of individuals going through residents' trash receptacles. The Chief requested that Captain Newcomer join the discussion on the trash receptacles to answer some of the questions being asked. There was concern by the Commissioners of identify theft of personal items that may be in the trash. B. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for July 7, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commissioners voted to adjourn at 4:55 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************ NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners held on Monday, May 5, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MINUTES On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the April 7, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that Matthew Travaglini's background investigation is complete and he has been given an offer of employment. The Chief said he is scheduled to start work on May 12, 2008. The Commissioners signed the full-time probationary appointment for Travaglini. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he had contacted Officer O'Reilly about the position being filled. Chief Tretter said that he did contact Officer O'Reilly and told him he would be considered for the next full-time opening in the department, pending the completion of a background investigation. B. There was no other police commission information. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Cruiser Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the 2008 cruisers are equipped and on the road. The Chief told the Commissioners that the new radio consoles have been installed so that all the equipment is in the front of the vehicle. The Chief said he would like to replace the ones in the other 2 cruisers with the same type of consoles at a cost of $700 per vehicle. Commissioner Ross stated that he thought it is a safety issue and the consoles should also be installed in the other cruisers for consistency. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has the money in the budget to install the consoles in the other 2 cruisers. Commissioner Ross asked if they needed a motion for the purchase of the equipment and the Chief said it would be on a purchase order that they would have to approve. The Chief said he would check with Bea at the Town Hall and look into charging it to the communications capital account. All three Commissioners agreed that the consoles should be installed in the other 2 cruisers. The Chief said that the video cameras are working just fine and have terrific quality voice recordings. Commissioner Ross asked how the officers like the cameras and the Chief said he has not received a single complaint. B. The Chief and the Commissioners reviewed the 2008 budget figures. The Chief said that the overtime budget is down to 61% remaining. The Chief said we will be covering for vacation time this summer, but Officer Travaligni will be filling the vacant shift starting May 12. Commissioner Ross asked about the ACO salary and the Chief told him that it is paid out in two payments each year. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Chief told the Commissioners that the police department is hosting the Citizens Police Academy here this week. The Chief said there are 16 or 17 people signed up, one of which is a Newington resident. The Chief said the academy will be held this Wednesday night from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the town hall, if the commissioners would like to stop by. The Chief said they will be covering motor vehicle accident investigations, DWI laws and the intoxilyzer. B. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief when the department will be doing firearms qualifications and use of force training. The Chief said they usually do the annual use of force training in the summer. The Chief told Commissioner Ross that he would let him know when the firearms qualifications are scheduled. C. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there was any new information on changing the Dover Point Toll booth. The Chief said that he has not heard anything at this time. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any new information on the Wildlife Refuge. The Chief said no, it has been fairly quiet at this time. The Chief said he will call Senator Gregg's office and inquire about the possibility of some funding should it be needed. D. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting is scheduled for June 2, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:30 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners held on Monday, April 7, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. ELECTION OF OFFICERS On a MOTION By Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to appoint Commissioner Ross as CHAIRMAN, Commissioner Kent as VICE CHAIRMAN, and Commissioner Hoyt as SECRETARY. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MINUTES On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the March 3, 2008, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Commissioners will be interviewing candidates for the vacant shift. B. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has heard any more rumors about the Dover Point toll booth being moved into Newington. Commissioner Ross stated that it would be a real concern to the residents of Newington if they put a toll booth there and it would certainly back up traffic. Commissioner Hoyt said that there was nothing definite mentioned at the meetings he has had with the State. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has any information on when work might begin on any roads in town, such as Gundalow Landing. Commissioner Hoyt said he thought until the roads dry out they would not be starting anything. The Chief told the Commissioners that the town just approved a 60-room hotel to be built on Woodbury Avenue. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the gun factory (Wilcox) is in business yet. The Chief said that the construction is nearly completed. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there have been any problems with the methadone clinic and the Chief said no. The Chief said that he got a call from the Chief in Conway because there are plans to build a methadone clinic in that town. The Chief said the only issue we have had is not enough parking for the employees of the clinic, but they seem to have resolved that issue. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any chance the department could get reimbursed for patrolling the Great Bay Wildlife Refuge, possibly through funding from the State or Homeland Security. The Chief said that right now the statistics don't warrant asking to be reimbursed. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief write a letter outlining the potential problems with the Refuge. The Chief said he could contact one of the State Senator's offices. The Chief also said that there are still people working out there, just not on a regular basis. IV OLD BUSINESS A. The Commissioners agreed that the minutes would remain sealed for review in 60 days. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the two new cruisers have been picked up and are scheduled for decals and equipment installation this coming week. C. The Commissioners reviewed the 2008 budget print out. V NON-PUBLIC SESSION On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to go into non-public session according to RSA 91-A:3 II(b) at 4:28 p.m.to discuss a personnel matter. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to come out of Non-Public Session at 5:22 pm. No motions were made nor any votes taken during the Non-Public Session. On the recommendation of Chief Tretter, the Commissioners voted to have the Chief extend a "Conditional Offer of Employment" to Matthew Travaglini for the full-time patrol position and to send a letter to Sean O'Reilly indicating that he will be considered for the next full-time opening with the department. The Motion was made by Commissioner Hoyt, seconded by Commissioner Kent, and voted on unanimously by the Commissioners. VI NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners signed the part-time patrol appointment forms for Officer Michael Sullivan and Officer Anthony O'Connell. VII NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for May 5, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VIII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:35 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ******************************************************************************************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commissioners held on Monday, March 3, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:10 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the February 4, 2008, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION
A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Part-time Officer Richard Scribner has submitted his resignation. The Chief said that it is an ordinary resignation and that he would hire Scribner again if he wanted to return to work for the department. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he needs to hire another part-time officer to replace Officer Scribner. The Chief said that he does not believe that he will need to replace him at this time, but will keep the option in mind. B. There was no other commission business. IV OLD BUSINESS A. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to keep the Non-Public Minutes sealed for review in 90 days. B. Cruiser Radar - As discussed at the last meeting, the Chief told the Commissioners that the radar antennas have been removed from the windshield and relocated to the dashboard area. C. 2008 Budget - The Chief told the Commissioners that Town Meeting is scheduled for March 15, 2008, with election of Town officials to be held on Tuesday, March 11, 2008. The Chief told the Commissioners that the public hearing on the 2008 police budget was relatively uneventful. V NEW BUSINESS A. Part-time Officer's Salary - The Chief asked the Commissioners to consider raising the part-time officers wage from $16 per hour to $18 per hour. The Chief said that the part-timers have not received an increase for about 3 years. On a Motion by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to raise the part-time rate to $18 per hour, effective March 10, 2008. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that he is working on a towing contract for the police department with the towing companies here in town. The Chief said that surrounding departments, such as Portsmouth and Dover, have contracts with their towing companies. Commissioner Ross asked if towing companies are required to be licensed with the State and the Chief said no. C. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. D. Other New Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any new information on the Great Bay Wildlife Refuge and the Chief said no. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any new criminal activity in Town and the Chief said there is nothing new to report in Town. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 7, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:41 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************ NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Commissioners on Monday, February 4, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the January 7, 2008, meeting as written. No other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Appelbaum is back to work effective today's date. B. Other Commission Business - Commissioner Ross stated that he signed up at the Town Hall because his term of office expires this year. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Review previously sealed minutes. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to keep the minutes sealed for another 90 days. B. Cruiser Cameras - The Chief told the Commissioners that 2 of the 4 cameras have been installed in the cruisers. The Chief told the Commissioners that the representative from Watch Guard came to the station and conducted about 2 hours of training and the officers are using the cameras in those cruisers. The Chief said they are holding off the installation of the two other cameras to be put in the 2008 cruisers when they arrive. Commissioner Kent asked if it is much of a job to install the cameras. The Chief told Commissioner Kent that 2-Way communications takes about 2 hours for the installation. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how the cameras that are installed seem to be working. The Chief stated that he has not seen any of the videos yet. The Chief said the cameras are easy to operate and are set up to come on when the blue lights are on, but can also be turned on manually. The Chief said there was a pursuit in Town last night, but unfortunately the cruiser involved in the pursuit was not equipped with a camera. The Chief said that Supervisor Tim Stuart will be in charge of viewing and storing the DVD's. The Chief told the Commissioners that he is in the process of writing an SOP for the camera system. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if any other departments use the cameras and the Chief said that some State Police cruisers have them, Greenland uses cameras, Lee, and a few other towns around. The Chief said most of the officers find the cameras to be a useful piece of equipment. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief when we would be replacing the other cars with the new cruisers. The Chief said they should be in sometime at the beginning of April and then the cameras will be installed. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the cameras interfere with visibility. Commissioner Hoyt said looking from the outside of the cruiser it is clear dead ahead and a little bit to the right. Commissioner Hoyt said the cameras are up high, but the laptop cover maybe a problem. The Chief said that he didn't feel the camera is anymore in the way than a rear view mirror and you have to be aware the equipment is there and take an extra second to look. The Chief said he is looking into rearranging the equipment in the new cruisers so the radio will be easier to reach. The Chief said he is looking into going back to the "tree" setup which will cost approximately $700 per cruiser. C. 2008 Budget - The Chief said he has met with the budget committee and there are no issues to date and the public hearing on the budget will be this Saturday, February 9, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. Commissioners Hoyt and Ross said they will attend the hearing. D. Great Bay Wildlife Refuge - The Chief told the Commissioners that Jimmie Reynolds has retired as of January 31, 2008. The Chief said it is not completely unoccupied; there are a couple of biologists who will be at the WLR probably twice a week, and the department has increased its patrols of the area. The Chief said that NH Fish & Game has grant money available from OHRV registrations to give to police departments to enforce OHRV laws. The Chief said he will be applying for a grant to help cover costs of patrolling the wildlife refuge. The Chief said he has spoken with NH Fish & Game officials and does not have a lot of confidence that he will get the grant because we do not have the statistics available to show the need for a grant. Commissioner Hoyt said that he spoke with PDA representative Peggy Lamson about the possibility of having an electric gate installed. Mrs. Lamson said she would present that to the PDA. Commissioner Ross said that perhaps the town could share the costs of a gate with the PDA. V NON-PUBLIC SESSION On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to go into non-public session at 4:20 p.m. to discuss a personnel matter. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted to come out of non-public session at 4:45 p.m. and to seal the minutes from the Non-Public Session. No motions or actions were taken. VI NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. Other new business - The Chief told the Commissioners a summons was issued for a dog bite incident. Commissioner Ross initiated discussion about officers being pro-active in incidents where there may be a shooter at the mall or other types of hostage situations. The Chief said that the policy of the department is to be pro-active in a situation involving an active shooter. Commissioner Hoyt asked if the MS-13 gang is in the area. Commissioner Ross stated that he believes that one or two members of MS-13 are serving time in NH correctional facilities. However, most of the MS-13 activity is in the greater Boston area. However, other street gangs are expanding operations in at least 5 of the 6 New England States (Vermont is the exception) and these gangs are recruiting members in some of the middle and high schools throughout the region. Commissioner Ross also mentioned the fact that there have been five bank robberies in the Lowell, Massachusetts, area in the past week. The Chief said they just conducted robbery training at the Service Credit Union located at Walmart this past week. VII NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME/LOCATION The next meeting of the police commission is scheduled for Monday, March 3, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VIII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************************************************************************************************************ NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, January 07, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the December 3, 2007, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Appelbaum's surgery has been completed and he is expected to be back to work the first part of February 2008. The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke with one of the officers and requested that he let the department know ahead of time if he will be retiring this year. B. 2007 Budget Review - The Chief told the Commissioners that we will be turning back approximately $11,450, which is a pretty fair figure. Commissioner Ross asked if that figure included the $5,000 we are giving towards the cruiser cameras and the Chief said yes. The Chief said we are still paying some '07 bills until they close the books sometime next week. C. Other Police Information - Mr. Ross discussed some problems the U.S. is having with illegal aliens on the southern border and what a terrible situation really exists. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Firearms Purchase - The Chief told the Commissioners that the new guns are in and the officers with the 239's have been qualified and are carrying them. The officers who are getting the 226's are still waiting for the new holsters and when they come in, the officers will qualify with the new weapon. Commissioner Ross asked if the new guns take the 357 ammunition and the Chief said yes. B. Cruiser Camera Purchase - The Chief said that he has FAX'd the purchase order down to the vendor and the cameras should be in any day. Commissioner Ross brought up the issue of tasers and expressed his opinion that they are still controversial. Chief Tretter said that the Chief from Greenland is budgeting to purchase four tasers this year. Commissioner Ross asked if Greenland has had any incidents where they needed a taser, and Chief Tretter said no. There was discussion about the usefulness of tasers for use on the streets. Commissioner Hoyt discussed the fact that NH State Police carry tasers. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what NHPS&TC says about the tasers. The Chief said that the academy conducts training classes for officers to carry the weapon and that NHPS&TC realizes that departments are going to buy the tasers, so they offer the training. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how many instances in the year would a taser be useful to department personnel. The Chief said he doesn't see a need for the weapon at this time, but possibly it could be used once or twice a year with a belligerent subject. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if Stratham Police Department has tasers, and the Chief said he did not know. There was discussion about tasers being available to purchase by the public. The Chief said he would look into that to see exactly what it is.Commissioner Ross said they will keep the tasers in mind and revisit the issue if needed. C. 2008 Budget - The Chief told the Commissioners there are no changes to the 2008 budget proposal and that he is meeting at 6:30 p.m. tonight with the Selectmen. The Chief told the Commissioners that there are 27 pay periods budgeted as per request of the Town Hall, which causes a substantial increase in the full time salary line. The Chief said that the Selectmen and the Budget Committee are aware of the extra salary amount and it does increase our bottom line from about a 5% to an 8% increase. Commissioner Ross asked when they are supposed to meet with the Budget Committee. The Chief told him it is scheduled for January 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. Commissioner Ross told the Chief that he will be in Presque Isle, Maine, and unable to make that meeting. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners signed the blanket purchase orders for 2008. B. No other new business. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME A. The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, February 4, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:35 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ********************************************************************************************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Commissioners on Monday, December 3, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 3:55 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the November 19, 2007, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that he recently spoke with Officer Appelbaum and he will now be undergoing surgery to repair his hip. The Chief said the surgery will be scheduled sometime in the next two weeks and then Officer Appelbaum will not be back to work until sometime in February of 2008. B. Budget Review - The Chief and the Commissioners reviewed the remaining 2007 budget figures. The Chief said at this time the bottom line is okay, but the overtime budget will be over expended due to the amount of sick leave and job-related injuries incurred this year. The Chief said the department has had to cover over 100 shifts this year due to unexpected leaves of absence. C. Other Police Commission business - None IV OLD BUSINESS A. Firearms purchase - The Chief told the Commissioners that the guns and holsters have been ordered and should be in sometime in the next month or so. B. Cruiser Camera Purchase - The Chief said that he will be looking closely at the 2007 budget near the end of December so he can come up with $2-$3,000 towards the video camera purchase. The Chief said the purchase is around $21,000 with a 50/50 grant from the State. C. 2008 Budget - The Commissioners did not have any changes to be made to the proposed 2008 budget. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief when they meet with the Selectmen and the Budget Committee on the 2008 budget. The Chief said the meeting with the Selectmen is scheduled for January 7, 2008, at 6:00 p.m. and the Budget Committee is scheduled for January 16, 2008, at 7:00 p.m. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order folder. B. There was no other new business. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, January 7, 2008, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:30 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ********************************************************************************* * * * * * * * * * * * NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION 2008 BUDGET REVIEW There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, November 19, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. to review and discuss the 2008 proposed police budget. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt and Chief Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 3:50 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a Motion by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted to accept the minutes from the November 5, 2007, meeting as written. III 2008 BUDGET REVIEW The Chief presented the Commissioners with a draft copy of his 2008 budget proposal. Commissioner Hoyt asked how the ACO officer gets paid. Ms. St. Laurent responded that the ACO receives semi-annual pay. The Chief told Commissioner Ross that the other Commissioners stated at the last regular meeting that they wanted to wait for him to be presented before making any final decisions on the 2008 budget. Commissioner Ross expressed his appreciation for their consideration. The Chief stated that there really are no changes to the operating budget; but that some line item totals have been moved to other line items for convenience. The Chief said that he took $2,000 out of the firearms budget and moved it to the vehicle fuel because we are a little short on the fuel line this year. The Chief said that the biggest question he has for the Police Commission is the salaries. The Chief told the Commissioners that the Board of Selectmen has authorized a 2.4% COLA increase. It is the Chief's understanding that the Town employees at the town hall may receive a slightly larger increase than the 2.4%. The Chief said last year the Commissioners said they would take the annual step increase for police on a case-to-case basis, so it has been included in the 2008 proposal. The Chief said that the draft he gave them includes not only the 2.4% COLA, but also one step across the board. Commissioner Hoyt asked if the step increase is 1.5% and the Chief stated yes and the total increase would be 3.9%. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how does this 3.9% increase compare us with surrounding departments, not Portsmouth or Dover, but towns close to our size, like Greenland or Rye. The chief said he does not know what the other towns are doing, but Stratham is conducting a salary survey which we are taking part in. The Chief said he could make a few phone calls to see what other departments are doing. Commissioner Ross asked if the Chief knows what the fire department is doing this year. The Chief said he does not. Commissioner Ross asked both Commissioner Kent and Hoyt what their thoughts are on the 1.5 step plus the 2.4% increase. Commissioner Ross also said that the health and retirement costs have gone up considerably. Commissioner Kent said there is no denying that there is inflation and that he does not feel that increase is unreasonable. Commissioner Hoyt said that last year they gave some of the patrolman 2 or 3 steps to bring them in line. Commissioner Hoyt said that with the budget looking the way it does, he is for the increase across the board. There was a brief discussion about towns which provide health care and whether employees contribute to the costs. Chief Tretter said that he can call Greenland Police and find out what type of increase they are getting this year. The Chief said that Rye Police are getting a 3.6% COLA and they do have a step system on top of that. Commissioner Ross said he thought the 3.6% COLA is closer to the real cost of living. The Chief said he believes that simply with the cost of living, it would be his justification for the increase. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief to get some information from surrounding towns for consideration before the budget committee. Commissioner Ross also said that employees get longevity pay which is another benefit. He asked the Chief if other towns have longevity pay and the Chief said most towns do have either longevity pay or a merit system. Commissioner Ross said that if both the other Commissioners are comfortable with the 3.9% increase, he is fine with it. The Chief told the Commissioners that the operating side of the budget has really no increases for 2008. The Chief said that we will probably go over the budgeted fuel amount this year. Commissioner Ross said that expense is beyond anyone's control. The Chief said that his other concern is the overtime budget, should one of our officers retire in 2008. The Chief said there is nothing definite at this time, but I have to budget for replacing an officer should this occur. If an officer resigns and we have to replace him with a new officer, we will have to cover the costs of sending him to the police academy. The Chief said he increased the overtime by $5,000 this year. Commissioner Ross said he does not believe the budget committee or selectmen will have a problem with that. There was a brief discussion of the ACO's stipend. It was agreed that the 2.4% increase would stand. The Chief said that the ACO did not receive a COLA last year, so he added it this year. Commissioner Hoyt asked what types of expenses are included in the equipment contract. The Chief said it is various contracts such as the bottled water, the contract with Shred It, etc. Commissioner Hoyt said that the firearms budget used to be at $7,000 and we kept it at $5,000 because of the unavailability of a firearms range. The Chief said that at least for the foreseeable future we can go to the Somersworth or Pease range and the only real firearms costs will be for supplies and ammunition. Commissioner Hoyt said then the total operating budget is increased by approximately 4.48%. Commissioner Hoyt said that he is pleased with the budget and does not feel we will have any problems with it. The Chief reminded the Commissioners that around the first of December he will be looking for money from the 2007 budget to put towards the purchase of the new cruiser video cameras. Commissioner Ross asked if there were any other items for discussion. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if anything was happening in town or anything unusual going on and the Chief said no. The Chief said that H&K is under construction. IV ADJOURNMENT On a Motion by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:30 p.m. V NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for December 3, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ****************************************************************************** * * * * * * * * * * * * NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, November 5, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent and Chief Jon
D. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Paul Kent called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the October 2, 2007, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Seth Appelbaum is out on disability for an undetermined amount of time due to a problem with his hip, making it very uncomfortable for him to sit in the cruiser. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Appelbaum is waiting to be scheduled for an injection into the hip joint. At this time, there is no way to determine when he will return to work. The Chief told the Commissioners there is about $8,000 left in the overtime budget for the rest of 2007. B. Budget Review - The Commissioners and the Chief reviewed the 2007 budget figures. The Chief said that the expenditures are within the proper range for this time of year and he has no real concerns except for the overtime budget because of the temporary loss of one officer. There was discussion of the firearms line item and the Chief said that he will be purchasing more ammunition before the end of the year, along with the purchase of the new weapons. C. Other Police Commission Business - The Chief told the Commissioners he will be on leave November 12 through November 14, 2007. Commissioner Kent asked the Chief if the officers get flu shots. The Chief said it is a personal decision each officer makes on his own. It is not required by the Department. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Commission Letter - The Commissioners said they read the letter included in the Selectmen's newsletter. B. Cruiser Camera Grant - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Highway Safety grant for the department has been approved. The Chief said he wrote a letter to the Selectmen letting them know that we have been approved. The Chief said the total cost of the cameras is $21,000 and the Highway Safety grant will cover $10,000 and the Town will need to finance $11,000. The Chief said he told the Selectmen he will know in December how much money he will have from his budget to put towards the $11,000. The remainder will come from the Capital Expense budget. C. Firearms Upgrade - The Chief gave the Commissioners the purchase order for upgrading the department hand guns. The Chief said that with the trade-in of 19 handguns, the overall cost for the weapons is less than $100 each. The Chief said we are trading for 15 Sig-Sauer P226R's, .357 calibre so we will not have to change ammunition and 4 smaller versions of the same model. Keeping with the .357 calibre will save the department a lot of money on ammunition for the new guns. The Chief said that Commissioner Ross was invited to try out the new weapon also. The Chief told the Commissioners that the new weapons have a trigger pull of 6 lbs. as opposed to 10 lbs. on the guns the department now carries. The Chief told the Commissioners that we will be getting new leather through Riley's on a credit memo we have with them. The Chief told the Commissioners that Commissioner Ross shot the gun and liked it very much. The Chief requested that the approval be made for this budget year. Both Commissioner Hoyt and Commissioner Kent agreed to the purchase of the weapons, but recommended they wait until Commissioner Ross can sign the purchase order. The Chief said that he will call Commissioner Ross to come and review and sign the purchase order. V. NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. 2008 Budget Discussion - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Selectmen have approved a 2.4% COLA and there has been an increase in insurance of about 8% over last year. The Chief said those are things he has no control over. The Chief said the big issue for salary is that last year we talked about an annual step increase and it was tabled, and now that time has come and I want to get the Commissioner's opinion on a 1.5% step increase over the 2.4% COLA. The Chief told the Commissioners that the difference is about $7,500 between the cost of living and adding a step. In 2008 a 2.4% COLA increases our salary by $12,200, and then if you add a 1.5% step, its $7,600. Commissioner Kent said he did not feel that was a bad increase with the 1.5% step. Commissioner Hoyt said that the way the federal government figures the COLA is confusing, and that Boston has estimated the COLA at around 4%. Chief Tretter told the Commissioners that he expected the cost of living to be between 3 or 4% and was a little surprised when it came in at 2.4%. The Chief said that he needs approval from the Commissioners for the COLA and the step. Commissioner Hoyt said that he does not have a problem with the 2.4% COLA plus the 1.5% step increase. Commissioner Kent said that he also supports the 2.4% COLA plus the 1.5% step. The Commissioners both agreed to get Commissioner Ross's input on the matter. The Chief said that the operating budget will stay approximately the same as 2007. There was discussion about the possibility of one of the officers retiring in 2008, and the impact it would have on the overall overtime budget and new uniform issue. The Chief said that he will be requesting two (2) new cruisers this year, to keep the rotation. Commissioner Hoyt said that he is willing to have another meeting to discuss the 2008 budget with Commissioner Ross. C. Other New Business - None VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 3, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. A budget meeting was tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 19, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. VII ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 4:40 p.m. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *************************************************************************** * * * * * * * * * * * * NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Tuesday, October 2, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, and Chief Jon D.Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the September 4, 2007, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION MEETING A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners he likes to keep them up to date on the staff and that all is well. B. Budget Review - The Commissioners reviewed the current budget figures and percentages left on the line items. There was discussion about the firearms budget and the Commissioners agreed that the Chief could obtain figures to trade the .357 handguns the officers now carry for 9mm handguns. Commissioner Ross asked if we would need to purchase new holsters, and the Chief said probably. Commissioner Ross asked if Riley's carries the holsters we would need. The Chief said he would get information on the cost of new holsters. Commissioner Ross asked how many handguns he would need to purchase and the Chief said 15. The Chief said he would call the Sig representative and see what type of trade in could be done. . The Chief said he would check into trading in the .357 ammunition for 9mm ammo. The Chief explained to Commissioner Kent that in previous years the department has had trouble finding places to do firearms training, so money was budgeted to pay for the use of the firing range in Greenland. However, at this time the Somersworth range is available at no cost to our officers. The Chief said the other budget figures look good, the gas line item should be okay for the remainder of the year, and the vehicle maintenance line item good. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief how the transmission is in the Explorer and how much mileage there is on the vehicle. The Chief said the transmission, which was replaced last year, is fine and there is over 60,000 miles on the vehicle. C. No other Commission Information. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Letter to Town Residents from Police Commission - The Police Commission discussed their recent letter to the residents concerning the responsibilities of the police commission and how they work with the Chief and the police department. It was the intent of the Commission to have the letter published in the Newington Neighbor, however, the Commission expressed their disappointment with the editor of the Newington Neighbor for refusing to publish the letter and have requested that the Selectmen include it in their next news letter. Commissioner Kent suggested that the letter could be included in the 2008 Town Report. Commissioner Ross asked when the town report comes out, and Commissioner Hoyt said a week or two before elections. Commissioner Ross suggested that the timing is important because of the news reports in Portsmouth lately, so it would be fresh in people's minds. Commissioner Ross asked if the Selectmen's letter goes to businesses in town and the Chief said he does not believe it does. The Commission letter will go out at the end of the month. B. Dover Toll Booth - The issue keeps coming up in the news and Chief Tretter said that the Dover Mayor would like to see it moved to help alleviate traffic on Dover Point Road, but the Chief does not feel there is any solid information or evidence that the State is going to move it. C. Cruiser Cameras/application - The Chief told the Commissioners that the grant application has been submitted to the State and we are looking at two cameras. One is called "Watch Guard" and the other one is called "Digital Ally." The Chief told the Commissioners that on Wednesday he will be going to Lee PD to see a demonstration of the Watch Guard system. York PD just bought the Watch Guard set ups and tested the Digital Ally and went with the Watch Guard system. Next week the Digital Alley representative is coming up to give a demonstration. The one digital system is actually set up in the rear view mirror, other than the camera itself. The camera turns on by the blue lights or manually and it has GPS in it, so if a gun or other evidence is thrown out of the vehicle, you hit the button and it gives you a mark where the evidence can be found. The Chief said he talked to John Clegg today and was told that our application looks good and the only issue is that the State has not received the equipment funding from the Federal government yet. They were supposed to have the funding by October 1, but it is unknown just when that will happen. The Chief said he may have to encumber the funds from this year's budget, if he doesn't hear from the State in time. D. Building Maintenance Budget - The Chief told the Commissioners that there is approximately $8,700 dollars left for building repairs if needed. E. Commissioner Ross said that a lot of departments are suspending the use of tasers and he suggests that our department not consider tasers until they are proven to be safe. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. Other new business - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Highway Safety Committee will be meeting next week to discuss writing a policy relative to the winter highway maintenance. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there were any new problems out on Fox Point. The Chief said that the Selectmen and the residents are pleased with the police presence on the Point. C. 2008 Budget Info - The Chief told the Commissioners that we should have some figures in the next few weeks so the 2008 budget can be worked on. D. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department had firearms training and that Lt. Qualls conducted one of the best trainings the department has ever had. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, November 5, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. V ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary Diana St. Laurent * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Tuesday, September 4, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the July 10, 2007, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is at full staff and that Sergeant Stuart has returned from disability leave. The Chief also mentioned that Officer Lalime required a few days leave when his six year old nephew got hit by a vehicle. The Chief told the Commissioners that the boy was transported to Boston Children's Hospital with serious injuries and was in a coma for a few days, but is now expected to recover. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the budget is on track for this time of year. The Chief said the line item for gas has approximately 37% remaining, but we should be okay for the remainder of the year. C. Other Business - Commissioner Ross asked the other Commissioners to read and comment on a letter he is drafting to the citizens of Newington on the responsibilities of the Police Commission. Commissioner Ross thought it would be beneficial, with all the news about the Portsmouth Police Commission, if the Commissioners compose an informational letter which could be put in the "Newington Neighbor." It was also mentioned that the final draft of the letter could be posted on the Newington Police Department website. Commissioner Ross said he would like to include some background information on each Commissioner. The Chief gave Commissioner Ross a copy of the NH State Statute outlining the responsibilities of a police commission. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what percentage of increase there has been in the past few budgets. The Chief told the Commissioners that in 2004-05, which was Chief Brad Loomis' last year, there was a 9.8% increase; in 2005-2006 there was a 4.3% increase; and in 2006-2007, there was a 2.8% increase. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the increase in 2004-05 was due to health care costs. It was determined that the greater increase was due to the hiring of the tenth full-time officer. Commissioner Ross asked if there were any more suggestions on what to include in the letter. Commissioner Ross also suggested that a photo be taken of the Commissioners while they are at one of the meetings. Commissioner Ross said he would work on the letter some more and present it for their review. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2007 Air Show - The Chief told the Commissioners that the air show went well and there were approximately 25 officers from 4 surrounding communities assisting with traffic and parking. The Chief said he did not receive any traffic complaints during the show. The Chief said that he has sent out thank you letters to all the agencies. B. Cruiser Cameras - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief where the department stands on the cruiser cameras. The Chief said that he did get a response from the Selectmen on his letter and they are interested in pursuing the request and are willing to put up some money. The Chief said the Selectmen did ask that he take a look at the department budget to see if he can come up with a few thousand dollars. The Chief said if the town's portion is approximately $10,000, we could come up with about 30% of that or about $3,000. Commissioner Ross asked if he could come up with that and Chief Tretter said he thought so. The Chief said what he is planning on is that by October 1, 2007, he has to have the grant paperwork up to Concord and would hope to hear back from them by the end of the month. The Chief said there is a time frame after that which pushes it to the end of the year which will give him a good idea of what will be left in the department budget. Commissioner Ross asked if the Commission should take a vote for Chief Tretter to continue pursuing the matter. On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commission voted unanimously for Chief Tretter to proceed with a letter to the Selectmen saying that he is prepared to dedicate an amount of money from the budget, barring any unforeseen problems, but the money should be there. The Chief said that he has some grant documents that he has to complete by October 1, for the Highway Safety and would like to ask to wait until October to send the letter to the Selectmen. The Commissioners agreed with the Chief's request. Commissioner Ross asked how many months does the process take? The Chief said that once Concord gives the okay, they have a closing date which is usually six months or so from the approval date. Commissioner Ross asked that, presuming there are no obstacles, the cameras should be operational by Christmas or sometime in December? The Chief stated that he would hope so. Commissioner Ross brought up the news coverage of the car chase on the Spaulding Turnpike this weekend and how the entire incident was video taped by the officers. C. Toll Booth - The Chief said that he spoke with a supervisor who has been attending the meetings on the Spaulding Turnpike, and he assured the Chief that he has not heard anything at all about building a toll booth on the Newington side of the General Sullivan bridge. D. Ammunition Information - The Chief told the Commissioners that the cost of 9mm ammunition is $282 per case and that the 357 is $312 per case. The Chief said that he has not called Sig, but he thinks they would be interested in working a deal with us, but he does not want to contact them until the Police Commission is serious about changing weapons. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief how long it would take to deplete the supply of ammunition. The Chief said there is probably enough for 4 or 5 qualifications and the department will qualify this month and then not again until sometime next year. There was discussion about the possibility of trading in the ammunition if the department weapons are changed. V. NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. Other new business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there was any new or major criminal activity in town. The Chief stated that it has been very busy, but nothing major or unusual. VI NEXT MEETING/DATE AND TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, October 1, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:45 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, August 6, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the July 10, 2007, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Sgt. Stuart is undergoing physical therapy to repair his torn bicep. The Chief stated that he hopes Sgt. Stuart will be able to return to work soon. B. Budget Review - The Chief told the Commissioners that the budget is in good shape, but he is keeping a close eye on overtime due to the amount of injury/sick leave coverage the department has incurred this year. C. Other Commission Business - Commissioner Ross brought up a discussion about the State of NH possibly erecting a toll booth in Newington to raise more revenue for the State. It was the consensus of the Chief and the Commissioners that a toll both in Newington would cause a tremendous traffic back up even more than what occurs currently. Commissioner Ross commented that another full-time officer would need to hired just to cover the accidents this would create. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief who he could check with here in town to see if there is a definite plan for this toll booth. The Chief said he would check with Town Planner Tom Morgan and he would also contact the DOT in Concord, N.H. to see if this is a serious consideration. Commissioner Ross said that he met a former co-worker and he asked him about laser sites for handguns and he basically said it is the difference between night and day in a shoot-out situation. Commissioner Ross said he would try to get more information on the laser sites and see if we want to consider them for the police department. Commissioner Ross referred to the newspaper article about the City of Portsmouth considering holding a public hearing to eliminate the police commission. Commissioner Ross stated that he would like to prepare a letter to the Newington Neighbor letting the citizens of Newington know the value of the commission. IV. OLD BUSINESS A. The Chief said that there are grants available to purchase video equipment for the cruisers. The State would pay, through a grant, approximately $2,500 per camera unit. The Chief prepared a memo to the Board of Selectmen requesting their approval for funds to be appropriated for the purchase of video equipment before he begins the grant process. The Commissioners signed the memo. B. Roadside Radar - The Chief told the Commissioners that he checked with Greenland Police Department and they are not interested in sharing the cost and use of the roadside radar unit they recently purchased. The Commissioners decided not to pursue the prospect of obtaining a roadside radar for Newington. C. Letter of Appreciation - The Commissioners read and signed a letter of recognition to Officer Garvin, President of the NHPA, for a job well done on the 2007 NHPA Convention. The letter also thanked the Newington officers who assisted Officer Garvin in the preparation of the 2-day event. D. There was a brief discussion on department handguns. Commissioner Ross requested that the Chief obtain information on cost savings of ammunition from the 357 magnum to the SigSauer 226 and what type of trade-in may be available. V. NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he has been receiving any complaints about speeders from town residents. The Chief stated he has not. VI. NEXT MEETING DATE/LOCATION The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for September 4, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII. ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent **************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Tuesday, July 10, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the May 8, 2007, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that we are up to full staff at this time. Officer Kerekes is back on patrol. Sgt. Stuart injured his arm earlier this month while on duty and has an appointment with a specialist this week to determine what type of injury he sustained and what treatment will be needed. B. The Commissioners reviewed the 2007 budget and the percentage remaining. C. Other Police Information - Commissioner Kent asked the Chief if the roadside radar units are purchased or leased by the towns. The Chief said he would look into the cost of the units. Commissioner Ross suggested the possibility of sharing the costs of the unit with Greenland Police Department. The Chief said he would look into it. There was discussion about the radar units in the patrol vehicles. The Chief said there has been a request to purchase a hand-held unit. Commissioner Ross suggested that might be a good idea in the future. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Great Bay Wildlife Refuge - The Chief told the Commissioners that there was an informational meeting about the GBWLF at the Newington Town Hall on June 19, 2007. The basic information was that there is no money for the US Fish & Wildlife Service to maintain full-time employees on the refuge. The Chief told the Commissioners that he frequently contacts Jimmie Reynolds, who is still at GBWLR, to discuss the status of the refuge. Commissioner Ross requested that the Chief write a letter to Jimmie Reynolds introducing the Commissioners and letting him know that they would occasionally be on official business familiarizing themselves with the GBWLR. B. 2007 NH Police Association Convention - The Chief told the Commissioners that President Jon Garvin did an excellent job organizing the 2007 NHPA convention hosted by the Town of Newington. Commissioner Ross requested that the Chief draft a letter of commendation from the Commissioners to Officer Garvin and the members of his staff for the hard work put into the preparation for the convention. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the new phone system has been installed. C. Cruiser Cameras - The Chief told the Commissioners that he has contacted department members and asked for their opinion on cruiser video cameras. The Chief said he believes it would cost approximately $4-$6,000 per cruiser for the equipment. It was discussed that the camera would be good protection for the officers and also for court cases when relevant. The Chief told the Commissioners that the Department of Safety will pay up to $2,500 per camera and that he will be contacting the agency to get more information. Once the Chief gets the information it can be determined if we need to acquire funds before the end of 2007, or if the money has to be budgeted in the 2008 budget process. Commissioner Ross suggested that, if the cruisers are equipped with video cameras, that the Chief write a letter to surrounding police departments making them aware of the video surveillance. D. Firearms SOP - The Chief told the Commissioners that he will be incorporating the State and Federal firearms guidelines into our department SOP on firearms. Commissioner Ross requested that the Chief notify NHPS&TC about his firearms qualification through the police department. The Chief told Commissioner Ross that he will be filling out the form and sending it to NHPS&TC. E. Bike Rodeo - The Chief told the Commissioners that the annual bike rodeo at the school was a success and enjoyed by all the students who participated. F. Other New Business - The Commissioners asked the Chief if the two vacant restaurants were a problem for the department as far as vandalism. The buildings are still alarmed and have not been a problem so far. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there are any other new businesses, besides the Texas Roadhouse, coming into town. The Chief said he is unaware of any at this time. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if construction at the Wilcox site has begun. The Chief said that they have started work recently, but he is not sure when construction will be completed. VI NEXT MEETING DATE AND TIME The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, August 6, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting at 5:00 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ********************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Tuesday, May 8, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas A. Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted to accept the minutes from the April 2, 2007, meeting as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Appelbaum is out indefinitely with a non-work related hip injury. His doctor recommended that he stay out of work until they determine if he will need surgery or not. Officer Appelbaum is scheduled to see his physician on Thursday, May 10, 2007, and we should know more after that. In the meantime, after three days he will be covered by the disability insurance. The Chief stated that he hopes it will not be a long-term disability. The Chief told the Commissioners that firearms training was conducted at the Somersworth range today. B. Budget Review - The Chief provided the Commissioners with a copy of the current budget. Commissioner Ross recommended that the officers do whatever they can to help conserve fuel. The Commissioners discussed the possibility that fuel could go to $4.00 a gallon in the future. C. Other Police Commission Business - None IV OLD BUSINESS A. ICE Section 287 - The Chief told the Commissioners that he has not heard back from ICE yet about the training sessions. Commissioner Ross stated that a lot of the agencies out west are getting involved in it because the situations are deteriorating, so Commissioner Ross stated that he believes that ICE will start coming up with some protocols because the illegal alien situation affects the entire country. Commissioner Ross recommended that the Chief has one of the officers trained and he also asked what other Chiefs in the area are doing. Chief Tretter said that the issue is that we can get an officer trained to make the right calls in dealing with the illegal aliens, but you need a place to take them, so in addition to training, we will need a facility to take them to because the Jail isn't going to participate. Commissioner Ross asked if Rockingham County Jail is taking the political position they might not participate? Chief Tretter said currently they will not take the illegals. Commissioner Ross stated that the officers should photograph and fingerprint the illegals as part of the protocol and if no one will take them that is understandable, but we should make an effort to at least identify these people and if they refuse to take them into custody, just log it in our records that Rockingham County denied accepting this individual. Commissioner Ross stated that a lot of crimes are being committed by illegal aliens and we need to deal with the problem. Building Maintenance Update - The Chief said that the painters just left and that the remaining offices have been completed. The Chief told the Commissioners that we have a new DVR in the booking room which he can now monitor from his office on his computer. Commissioner Ross asked if the officers have or should have some type of panic alarm in the booking room in case any of the officers have a problem with an arrestee. The Chief said that the radios have an emergency button directly to RC Dispatch. The Chief told the Commissioners that they always try to have two officers in the booking room when processing prisoners. Commissioner Ross said they might want to consider having a panic button installed at some point. V. NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. Wilcox/H&K Donation - The Chief told the Commissioners that Wilcox has donated 3 sub-machine guns to the police department. The Chief said that we have a great rifle we carry in the cruisers and he does not believe that the submachine guns fit into the department's needs at this time. The Chief said that he feels the Seacoast Emergency Response Team would get better use from them and he would like to donate them to the team. The Chief said that he thinks possibly Chief Magnate from Portsmouth will also donate his to the SERT team. The Commissioners agreed that donating the guns to the SERT team is a good idea. The Chief told the Commissioners that Wilcox is building an underground firearms range which we will have access to when it is completed. Commissioner Ross said that it would be appropriate for the Commissioners to meet with the head of Wilcox sometime in the near future. C. Other New Business - The Chief said that some of the officers wanted the Commissioners feelings on tasers. The Chief said that some of the guys have asked him about purchasing a taser for them to carry. The Chief said that he would like to wait and see how some of these civil cases come out. Commissioner Hoyt stated that he feels the same. The Chief said that they are a useful tool and may keep the officers from getting hurt, but once you carry a taser, the opportunity to overuse it is there and there have been some fatalities from the tasers. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if tasers are discussed at the Rockingham County Chief's meetings, and if any other police departments have tasers. The Chief said that he believes that Newington and Greenland are the only 2 police departments without tasers. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if any of the departments have had to use them, and the Chief stated yes. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief keep a watch on other departments and how they do with the tasers, but the Commissioners agreed the time is not right for Newington to have tasers. Commissioner Ross said that a worker on his house spoke highly of the way he was treated when he came by the police department for fingerprints. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what his protocol is if there were ever an incident at the mall or the Newington School involving a shooter. Chief Tretter said that if there is an active shooter, our officers would be aggressive in engaging the shooter as soon as possible. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is about to do some active shooter training at the school after hours. The SERT team is conducting the training for patrol officers on how to move through the school without getting killed. On a MOTION by Commissioner Ross and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commission voted unanimously that after the minutes of the meetings have been transcribed, that the digital voice recordings be erased. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Newington Commission is scheduled for Monday, June 4, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:05 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ***************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, April 2, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. Commissioner Douglas Ross was excused due to illness. 2007-2008 Organizational Structure: Douglas A. Ross, Chairman Paul Kent, Vice Chairman F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Hoyt called the meeting to order at 4:10 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the minutes from the March 12, 2007, meeting were accepted as written. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that Lt. Qualls is attending Fire Arms Instructors School at the New Hampshire Police Standards & Training Council. Commissioner Kent asked the Chief how many times a year the officers have the opportunity to practice shooting. Commissioner Hoyt said that the officers try to qualify at least 2 or 3 times a year. The Chief told the Commissioners that Captain Newcomer is a member of the Major Waldron firearms range and he has been taking Scott up to the range once a week to get ready for the qualifications at NHPS&TC. Commissioner Kent asked what happens if the officer can't qualify; would he loose his job? The Chief said no, that we have 2 other instructors with the department. We are looking down the road and if we have somebody leave, we like to have 2 instructors with the department. The Chief told the Commissioners that he did some research on the price of tires from Yudy's and the Chief said that Sullivan Tire's prices are the best. We get charged $63.00 per tire, so with mounting and balancing it costs $86.00 per tire. The Chief said that we currently have 4 part-time officers and because we have completely knocked the part-time shifts out of the schedule, I would still like to have the availability of the part-time officers, but I have elected to go with 3 officers instead of 4. The Commissioners signed the part-time appointment forms. B. The Commissioners reviewed the new 2007 budget figures. Commissioner Hoyt asked if the retirement goes up this year and the Chief said that it goes up in July. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief what the increase in retirement is this year and if we budgeted enough money for the increase. The Chief said yes there is enough budgeted and that the increase in Group II for employers went from 9.68% to 11.84% effective July 1 and the State share went from 5.22% to 6.37% so the total goes from almost 15% to almost 18.21%. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2007 Town Meeting - The Chief said there were no issues and no questions were asked at Town meeting in regards to the police budget. The Chief said there was a lot of discussion about the revisions to the noise ordinance in town, but the article did not pass. B. RSA 91-A Release of Information - The Chief told the Commissioners that we do have an SOP which covers costs for copies to the public. We decided to, in light of the article in the Portsmouth Herald, have Diana post the daily log on the police department website. We have made the officers aware that pertinent information that does not need to be in log, be left out. The Chief stated that this is not a big problem for the department; we don't have a lot of requests for our police log. We get requests for accident reports and maybe arrest reports, but not the daily log. We also put together, Doug Ross put together a release form and we "doctored" that up a little, put it on letterhead and then we can give somebody one to fill out, give them a copy and it will serve as a receipt. Commissioner Hoyt said that the department doesn't always generate the type of news the papers are looking for, so they don't bother us that much. The Chief said that the newspaper called within a couple of days after our last meeting and asked for a week's worth of the department log. The Chief called Lisa Z at the Portsmouth Herald and talked to her about it and told her that the Statue allows us to charge for the copies, so we are going to start doing that. She apologized for the article and said it wasn't her idea. The Chief said that she is interested only in arrests and serious motor vehicle accidents. So the Chief's recommendation is that she read the log on line and if she wants more information, to call him. C. Wildlife Refuge - The Chief said that Jimmie Reynolds has been temporarily moved to Philadelphia for 30 days and he says there have been no changes or notifications that would lead him to believe that something is imminent. Commissioner Hoyt said there was an article in the paper stating there is no money available for the GBWLR. The Chief said something is going to happen, it's just a matter of when. The Chief said his concern is that some day they show up with the keys to the place and say "good luck." Jimmie has assured me that that won't happen and it looks like, at least for right now, somebody will be there as a caretaker. The Chief said as soon Jimmie Reynolds gets back, he will touch base with him. D. Building Maintenance - The Chief told the Commissioners that the locker room, the bathroom, the booking room and his office have been painted. The Chief said he asked the painter to submit an estimate to paint the remaining 4 offices for the Selectmen's approval. The Chief told the Commissioners that some pipes from the heating system froze and water leaked into the dispatch room and the booking room. The water destroyed the VCR set up for recording prisoners in the booking room. The Chief said he would like to get that replaced. Commissioner Kent asked if that would be an insurance claim and the Chief said he would look into it. The Chief said he would like to go to a DVR system instead of a VCR which is really the going thing now. The Chief said that he will be able to monitor what is going on in the booking room from his monitor with the new system. He said he received 3 bids and Roger Royce's bid is the lowest at $2,700. The Chief said that the cameras in the cells and lobby are fine, but he would like to replace the camera in the booking room which is very old. Commissioner Hoyt said he does not feel that $2700 is that expensive and it might be worth while to check into the insurance end of it. The Chief said he would check into it. The Chief suggested that the equipment could probably be purchased from the Communications Capital Reserve. Commissioner Hoyt agreed with that suggestion since the system is tied in with the communications. E. RSA 188-F:27 Education and Training - The Chief gave the Commissioners a copy of the RSA relating to the physical requirements of NHPS&TC. At this time there is no evidence that any court cases have been brought against the academy challenging their physical agility testing. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that he and Commissioner Ross attended a meeting conducted by the staff at the Methadone Clinic. Commissioner Ross felt that it appears the facility is well run and no issues were noted. C. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Chief told the Commissioners he will be receiving information regarding immigration training for a yet to be determined, Newington Officer. D. The Chief told the Commissioners we should receive the new cruisers this week. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commissioners is scheduled for Monday, May 7, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioner voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:15 p.m. For F. Jackson Hoyt, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ********************************************* NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, March 12, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the February 5, 2007, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is up to full staff. The Chief also told the Commissioners that Officer Stanley will have to reapply to NHPS&TC to pass the required 3-year physical agility test. Commissioner Ross questioned the legality of the testing as it does not apply to all law enforcement officers and does not accurately reflect the officer's ability to perform his duties satisfactorily. He suggested that if NHPS&TC is challenged in court, they would probably be defeated. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the budget printout for 2007 would not be available until after town meeting. C. There was a discussion of the Portsmouth Herald article on the right to know law and the paper's evaluation of surrounding town officials and whether records were released or not. The Chief provided the Commissioners with a copy of RSA 91-A for their review. Commissioner Ross said that he did not believe it to be inappropriate for the department to ask for identification when giving out copies of police logs and to levy a charge for the copies. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief to research methods to identify the persons requesting documents. The Chief told the Commissioners he would review the department SOP's on releasing information and what costs can be charged. The matter was tabled for further discussion at the next meeting. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2007 budget update - The Chief told the Commissioners that the budget is in good shape so far. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the 2007 cruisers are at Hillsborough Ford and can be picked up around the end of the month when the check is issued. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the new cruisers will be a different color and the Chief told him they are silver-grey. The Chief told the Commissioners that it will take a couple of weeks to remove and install the equipment and have the doors detailed. Commissioner Kent asked who installs the decals on the cruisers. The Chief told him that we have a company in Somersworth, NH, that does a good job. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he will be assigning a cruiser to the ACO. The Chief said he would probably keep his current vehicle and give the ACO one of the other vehicles. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that the locker room has been painted, the floor has been waxed and sealed, and the new lockers installed. The Chief told the Commissioners that 2 lockers were damaged in transport and are in the process of being replaced. The Chief recommended that the Commissioners take a walk through after the meeting. The Chief said that the booking room and the bathroom will be painted next and possibly his office. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the NHANG is planning an air show sometime this summer, and there is going to be a four-day boat show at the old Celestica building in May which requires 4 special detail officers. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department will be taking part in a State-funded DWI patrol this July. There will be 2 night patrols which are funded by a grant from the State. C. Other Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there has been any change in the status of the Great Bay WLR. The Chief told the Commissioners that he has not spoken with Jimmie Reynolds recently, but he knows that they are looking for someone to be caretaker for the house on the refuge. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief contact the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and request they fund a portion of the annual salary of a police officer to patrol the refuge when they abandon it. The Chief told the Commissioners that he would speak with Jimmie Reynolds and report back to them at the next meeting. D. On A Motion by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to continue to seal the non-public minutes from the May 22, 2006, meeting. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for April 2, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:45 p.m.
by Diana St. Laurent **************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, February 05, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon Tretter. Commissioner Douglas Ross was out of town and unable to make the meeting. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Hoyt called the meeting to order at 4:03 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the minutes from the January 2, 2007, meeting were approved as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that we are at full staff and things are going fine. B. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if he received approval from the Board of Selectmen to purchase the new cruisers before June 2007. The Chief said that he was told the cruisers could be purchased in March. C. Commissioner Hoyt requested that the Chief do a price comparison on tires purchased from Sullivan Tire. Commissioner Hoyt said that Sullivan Tire purchased Yudy's and the prices on tires have gone up considerably. IV OLD BUSINESS A. . The 2007 budget is in limbo until the Town Meeting in March, so there were no new issues for discussion. The public meeting on the budget is scheduled for February 17, 2007. Commissioner Hoyt and Commissioner Kent said they would both attend the meeting with the Chief. B. The Chief told the Commissioners the new vests have arrived and most of the patrolmen like the vests. The Chief said the new vests cover a larger part of the upper body than the old vests. C. The Chief told the Commissioners the new lockers have not come in yet. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The 2007 Budget printout will not be available until after town meeting in March. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department will receive 7 new Motorola APCO portable radios from Homeland Security. The APCO radios have several improvements and the Chief will give them more information when the radios come in and he has a chance to test them. D. The Chief told the Commissioners that Mitchell's Exxon Tigermart was broken into over the weekend. The perpetrators made an attempt to take the ATM machine, but were unsuccessful. E. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Jon Garvin will be nominated as President of the New Hampshire Police Association at the June 2007 NHPA Convention. The Chief said he wrote a letter to the Board of Selectmen letting them know that it is the responsibility of the Town to host the Annual NHPA Convention. The events which are being scheduled will be taking place on Pease International Tradeport and the convention is scheduled for the first week in June. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/LOCATION The next meeting of the Newington Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, March 5, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the Police Department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the meeting was adjourned at 4:45 p.m. For Paul Kent, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ****************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Tuesday, January 2, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:10 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the December 4, 2006, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is up to full staff and Officer Lalime is doing fine. The Chief told the Commissioners that as of January 1, 2007, the patrol officers will be testing shift pick according to seniority with some rotation so the officers with the least seniority will not always get the undesirable shifts. The Chief said that right now we have an officer who is taking classes and has requested the midnight shift to accommodate his class schedule. B. The Chief presented the Commissioners with a copy of the 2006 year end budget figures for their review. The Chief told the Commissioners that he will be turning back to the Town, a little over $50,000 from the 2006 budget. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if the 2006 full time salary item included Officer Lalime's salary while he was out on Workmen's Compensation. The Chief said yes, his salary was included. Commissioner Ross asked what items are included in the communications line and Mrs. St. Laurent said that it includes the telephones, a monthly charge for the T-1 connection, and the wireless connection for the laptops. C. Other Business - Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what circumstances determine the closing of a town road when an accident occurs. Commissioner Ross said he was coming home on Saturday and was told by a Greenland police officer that the road ahead was closed due to an accident. The Chief told Commissioner Ross that the fire department sometimes elects to close the road if there are personal injuries involved. The Chief said that at the December meeting the Commissioners asked about the town policy for purchasing equipment. The Chief said that PO's over $250 to $2,500 require approval of the commissioners; PO's over $2,500 to $10,000 require 3 written quotes, and PO's over $10,000 require a formal bidding process. IV OLD BUSINESS A. The Chief told the Commissioners that he ordered the ten lockers and they should arrive in approximately 45 days. The total cost was just over $6,000 with shipping. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that he will be meeting tonight at 6 p.m. with the Selectmen to review the department budget. Commissioner Hoyt said he would be there and Commissioner Ross said he would try to come back for the meeting also. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief when the meeting with the Budget Committee is scheduled. The Chief told him that the meeting is scheduled for January 17, 2007, at 7:00 p.m. C. Annual Report - The Chief told the Commissioners he will have his annual report for them to review before he has to submit it for inclusion in the Town Annual Report by January 7, 2007. The Chief said that his report will include statistical information in addition to information on the status of the Great Bay Wildlife Refuge. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief include information on the color change of the two new department cruisers. D. The Chief told the Commissioners that Captain Newcomer is involved in a court case with an illegal alien who was arrested and summonsed to court by our department. The Chief said that it took quite a long time to get a response from ICE, but there is now a hearing scheduled in Boston with the subject who has been in the U.S. illegally for 2 years. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief look into the training available for a department member to have the authority to arrest illegal aliens. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, February 5, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:50 p.m. For Paul Kent, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ****************************************************** Newington Police Commission Minutes There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, December 4, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner Paul Kent, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Chief Jon Tretter, Patrolman Michael Lalime and Master Patrolman Leonard Kerekes. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. II MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the November 15, 2006, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that the department is up to full staff and things are running smoothly at this time. B. The Chief provided the Commissioners with a copy of the 2006 year-to-date budget report. The Chief stated that there are no areas of concern and that we will probably return $20 to $30,000 to the general fund. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there is any department equipment that needs to be ordered before the end of the budget year. The Chief said that he is looking into purchasing lockers for the locker room. Mr. Ross asked what the cost is for the lockers and the Chief said it would probably be around $6,000 for 15 new lockers. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if there are any grants available from Homeland Security for this type of purchase. The Chief said he is unaware of any federal funding for this type of equipment. The Chief and the Commissioners took a walk through the locker room to view the lockers the officers are using at this time. Commissioner Ross asked if 3 quotes were required for the amount of this purchase. The secretary said she would check town policy for this information. The Commissioners told the Chief to continue to look into the cost of the lockers and get estimates and quotes as required by town policy for their consideration. C. There was no other commission information. IV OLD BUSINESS A. 2007 Salary Discussion - The Chief told the Commissioners that he figured the department salaries at the 2.8% COLA, recommended by the Selectmen, with an additional 2 merit steps for department members above the patrolman level and 3 steps for the patrolmen. The Chief recommended that the patrolmen be given an additional step increase to bring them more in line with surrounding departments. The Chief told the Commissioners that the overall salary line is reflecting a 2.3% decrease this year, even with the salary proposals he is recommending. The Chief also requested that the Commissioners consider returning back to the annual 1.5% step increase as has been done in prior years. Commissioner Ross asked if the Chief meant a 1.5% increase over and above the COLA and the Chief said yes. Commissioner Ross stated that he felt it is difficult to commit to an annual step increase. Commissioner Ross said it is important to take care of the guys, but also to protect the tax payers; it would be better to address the steps each budget process and that we need to keep in mind the fact that in the not too distant future we may have some officers retiring. Commissioner Hoyt also expressed his desire to continue with the step increases, but thought we should proceed cautiously. Commissioner Kent said that it is easier to add a little bit to the budget each year, rather than a large amount at one time. V NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the 2007 cruisers will be ready by the end of March 2007 and they will be silver in color. The Selectmen gave the Chief the o.k. to order the cruisers and they will cut a check for the purchase after town meeting in March. When the new cruisers come in, the decision about which vehicle to use as the ACO car will be made. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that he has the detailed 2007 budget worksheets for their review if they want a copy. The Chief told the Commissioners he is scheduled to present the police department budget to the Selectmen on January 2, 2007, at 6:00 p.m. and the Budget Committee on January 17, 2007, at 7:00 p.m. On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commission voted unanimously to present the 2007 budget, as prepared by the Chief, to the Selectmen and the Budget Committee on the scheduled dates. D. The Commissioners signed the meeting schedule for 2007-2008. E. Department Dinner - The Chief told the Commissioners that the Department Safety banquet is scheduled for December 13, 2006, at 6:00 p.m. at the Hibachi Japanese Restaurant. There was a discussion about funding the awards and it was agreed that the funds would come from the public safety donations made to the police department. F. Commissioner Ross asked Officers Lalime and Kerekes if they wanted to discuss anything with the Commissioners. Officer Lalime said he wanted to thank the Commissioners for standing by him during his injury and that he was glad to be back to work. Commissioner Ross told the officers that the department is doing a good job and that they must always be careful to make good and careful decisions in consideration of the dangerous job they have to do. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for January 8, 2007, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:05 p.m. For Paul Kent, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent *********************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Wednesday, November 15, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 4:05 p.m. by Chairman Ross. II MINUTES OF MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Hoyt, the Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the October 2, 2006, meeting. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. Staffing Update - The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Lalime came back on duty October 16, 2006, and the department is up to full strength. B. The Chief and the Commissioners reviewed the current budget for 2006. No problem areas were noted. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that Riley's has measured all the officers for the new ballistic vests. The vests should be shipped in approximately 45 days. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the officers are required to wear the vests while on duty and the Chief said yes. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what the life expectancy of the vests is and the Chief said that the manufacturers recommend replacing the vests every 5 or 6 years because of liability. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if the state has a standard. The Chief said it is generally recommended that the officer wears a vest comparable with the type of duty ammunition he is carrying; in our case, the Level II is recommended and perhaps the 3A which gives more protection. IV OLD BUSINESS A. There was a brief discussion of employee benefits. Commissioner Ross said that he appreciated Chief Tretter's salary survey which included a survey of the health benefits of other departments. Commissioner Ross said that the survey shows that Newington is in line fairly well with other departments. On a MOTION by Commissioner Ross and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commissioners voted unanimously to keep the memo to the selectmen on file for future use. Commissioner Ross said that the memo would document that the Commissioners have discussed the issue and are looking at the rising costs of health care. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the front sidewalk repair and the floor in the sallyport have been completed. The Chief said that R.G. Young has started the work on the septic system repair. V NEW BUSINESS A. The purchase order file was reviewed by the Commissioners. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the ACO vehicle has a minimum of $1,500 in repairs to be done. The Chief told the Commissioners that he does not think it is cost effective to spend that amount of money on the car. The Commissioners were in agreement that the ACO vehicle needs to be updated after town meeting in March 2007. The Chief said that the on-duty officers could assist in transporting animals so the ACO will not have to use her own vehicle. Commissioner Hoyt suggested that the ACO share the use of the town building inspector's vehicle when needed. C. Salary Survey - Commissioner Ross said that the survey appears to indicate that the officers pay is in line with surrounding departments. The Chief told the Commissioners that the greatest disparity is with the patrolman. He stated that the patrolman are around $10,000 behind the smaller departments in the area. He requested that the Commissioners consider giving the patrolman a 3-step increase in addition to a 3% COLA. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief be sure to put something in writing to justify his decision to give lower-level patrolmen 3 steps and all other employees 2 steps. The Chief told the Commissioners that he will have a tentative budget prepared for their review at the next meeting. D. Commissioner Kent suggested that consideration be given to changing the venetian blinds from vertical to horizontal. Commissioner Kent thought this would give more privacy. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, December 4, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 4:30 p.m. For Commissioner Paul Kent, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ***************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Monday, October 2, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross, Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent, and Chief Jon D. Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Ross called the meeting to order at 4:10 p.m. II MINUTES OF MEETINGS On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the September 6, 2006, meeting as written. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Lalime is scheduled to return to work on October 16, 2006. Officer Lalime will be at the department training on October 3, 2006, and the Chief said that Officer Lalime will be scheduled to do his physical agility test at NHPS&TC before the end of 2006. The Chief stated that he does not believe that Officer Lalime will have any problem passing the test. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the budget is in good shape for this time of the year. The Chief expressed some concern that the firearms line item has not been spent, but stated that the $7,000 was budgeted when it was unknown what costs the department would incur if we had to pay a fee for use of a firearms range. The Chief stated that there will be ammunition ordered later this month which will come to a few thousand dollars. The Chief told the Commissioners that when training is conducted at Pease, the officers are required to use frangible ammunition which is more expensive than the regular ammunition used at the Somersworth range. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that Vincent Frank came by the police department and requested that the Chief write him a letter in reference to the June 5, 2006, Selectmen's meeting saying that the police did not escort him (Frank) out of the meeting. Mr. Frank was furnished a copy of the call for service from the police department in reference to the incident and was told that the Chief would discuss his request for a letter with the Police Commission. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief what action had to be taken when the police responded to the Town Hall. The Chief said that there was no action taken and that Officer Garvin did a "Call for Service" entry which states: "no action required." It was the consensus of the Commissioners that the call for service entry adequately explains the incident and there is no need for the Chief to compose a letter for Mr. Frank. If the officers are required to testify in a court case, they can testify that there was no action taken by the police. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Commissioner Ross provided the Chief and the Commissioners with a draft letter, Subject: Employee Health Benefits, for consideration for presentation by the police commission to the Board of Selectmen. Commissioner Hoyt stated that he spoke with Selectman Iocovozzi and he was told that any changes to benefits would have to be done on a warrant article for the town residents to vote on. Commissioner Kent stated that he did not "wish to rattle this cage" and that he felt any changes should come from the Selectmen. Commissioner Kent also questioned what the legal ramifications would be; would it cause the employees to unionize. Commissioner Kent stated that the Board is the only protection for the employees against losing benefits, etc., since the employees have no one to speak for them. Commissioner Ross asked Commissioner Hoyt and Commissioner Kent if they wanted to vote on the matter. Commissioner Kent stated that he would like to leave the matter alone. Commissioner Ross asked Commissioner Hoyt what his thoughts were and Commissioner Hoyt stated that a few years ago the matter was discussed at town meeting. Commissioner Ross asked if the police commission could do a warrant article. Commissioner Hoyt said yes. After additional discussion, the commissioners agreed that warrant articles pertaining to town employee benefits should be initiated by the Selectmen. It was the decision of the Commissioners to table this matter for the November meeting. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief to get the percentage of the overall police budget that reflects salaries and health care costs for the next meeting. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that he wrote letters to Senators Judd Gregg and John Sununu, Congressman Jeb Bradley and the U.S. Regional Director of the Fish & Wildlife Service requesting their help in keeping federal employees at the Great Bay WLR. The Chief told the Commissioners that the letters were available for their information if they would like to read them. The Chief stated that to date he has received a return letter from Senator Gregg which says basically that he shares our concerns over the matter and that he (Senator Gregg) has written to Director Hall expressing his concerns. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief contact Senator Gregg by phone and inquire about what, if any, response Senator Gregg got from Director Hall. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief do an article for the Newington Neighbor bringing this matter to the attention of the residents and letting them know what action the police department is taking. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that the new file server has been installed and is up and running. V. NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The Chief provided the Commissioners with a draft copy of proposed warrant article amendments to Town Ordinance 86-08 and a copy of a new penalty fee schedule for 2007. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to accept the proposed amendments to Town Ordinance 86-08 for presentation at Town meeting and the new penalty fee schedule to be effective January 2007. The Commissioners signed the new penalty fee schedule. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that he and Diana St. Laurent attended an IMC Cross Agency information meeting at Portsmouth Police Department. When the program comes on line, it will enable surrounding police departments to share information. At this time there are approximately 60 police departments which have an interest in the program. The Chief from Antrim PD is submitting a grant application for funds to cover the purchase of hardware for the departments. The cost to Newington PD will be $3,000 for the IMC software which will be budgeted in 2007. D. Building Repairs - The Chief told the Commissioners that estimates on repairing the sallyport floor are continuing and also the work on the front sidewalk. Young Construction will be digging up the septic system to repair the line sometime before winter. VI NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, November 6, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:20 p.m. For Paul Kent, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent ****************************************************** NEWINGTON POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES There was a meeting of the Newington Police Commission on Wednesday, September 6, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. PRESENT: Commissioner Douglas Ross. Commissioner F. Jackson Hoyt, Commissioner Paul Kent and Chief Jon Tretter. I CALL TO ORDER Chairman Ross called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. II MINUTES OF MEETINGS A. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the commission voted unanimously to accept the minutes from the August 8, 2006, meeting with the change to page 3, first paragraph, line 1 as requested by Commissioner Ross to read as follows: "Commissioner Ross stated that illegal alien smuggling from Canada should also be of concern to New England law enforcement agencies, as a key pipeline for Asian organized crime is from Montreal to Lowell, Massachusetts. Many Asian criminal networks rely on Asian businesses to launder proceeds from criminal activities." B. There were no other minutes. III POLICE COMMISSION INFORMATION A. The Chief told the Commissioners that Officer Lalime is doing good and he meets with his doctor on September 11, and hopes to be back to work by the end of September. Commissioner Ross asked if Officer Lalime needs to pass any physical requirements when he gets back to work. The Chief said that he is over due for his 3-year physical agility test with the State. The Chief said that Officer Lalime is running every other day and that he can wait a few months before going to Concord to pass the agility test. The Chief did express some concern about one or two of the test requirements and hopes that Officer Lalime's shoulder will be strong enough to pass the tests. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the budget looks good for this time of year. C. Commissioner Hoyt asked the Chief if there is any department firearms training scheduled. The Chief said that there are two training sessions coming up; one day-time shooting and one night-time shooting. The day shooting will be conducted at the Somersworth range and the night shooting will be held at the NHANG range. The Chief told the Commissioners that he will be ordering ammunition later this fall. D. Other business - Commissioner Ross opened up a discussion about the high cost of health benefits for town employees and the rising burden on the tax payers in the Town of Newington. Commissioner Ross asked if he thought the commission should consider sending a letter to the Selectmen asking them to consider having new employees pay 50% of their benefits to help reduce the burden on the tax payers. Commissioner Ross asked Commissioner Kent for his opinion. Commissioner Kent said that he opposes taking away any benefits from the employees and that all town employees should be treated equally. Mr. Ross asked Chief Tretter how many officers will be retiring in the next couple of years. The Chief said that there are several officers who could retire, but he does not believe that there will be a large volume of officers retiring soon. Commissioner Hoyt said that the towns people discussed benefits at a town meeting a year or two ago and voted to leave the benefit package the way it is for now and that it is an issue that comes up almost every year, but the Selectmen have chosen to continue to pay full benefits for town employees. Mr. Ross said that he feels as a Commissioner he should show to the tax payers that the commission is fiscally responsible. Commissioner Ross said that as a tax payer and a commissioner, he sees both sides of the issue and he does not consider it unreasonable to consider what to do about the cost of benefits to tax payers. He stated that he will draft a letter for the commissioners to consider at the next monthly meeting. Commissioner Ross stated that he did not want to wait too long on this issue and risk losing the opportunity for the Commissioners to set the percentage of benefits that new employees will be required to pay. The Chief said that he feels it is an error to bring up the issue on our own. The Chief said that the Selectmen have discussed the possibility of new employees paying into their benefits. The Chief and Commissioner Hoyt both said that the cost of benefits is almost always discussed during the preparation of the budgets each year, but so far the Board of Selectmen has chosen to continue to pay 100% of benefits. Mr. Ross said that he will draft a letter for their consideration. IV OLD BUSINESS A. Fox Run Mall Agreement - The Chief told the Commissioners that Attorney Peter Loughlin reviewed the contract with the Fox Run Mall and that the contract is a "one-time" agreement. The Chief told the Commissioners that the Mall has been paying approximately $44,000 annually for two police officers since back in the 80's. Commissioner Ross asked the Chief if he knows the General Manager of the Mall and the Chief replied that he has talked with Mr.Scott DeCost on occasion. Commissioner Kent suggested that the Chief write a letter to Mr. DeCost about the increased cost of police coverage, and perhaps the Mall would consider raising the monthly payment to reflect the increase. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief let the Mall Manager know that the Commissioners have been considering the possibility of increasing the monthly fee. The Chief said he could write a letter, but he is not confident that we will get a favorable response. Commissioner Ross stated that he will leave the matter up to the Chief's discretion of when and how to handle the issue. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that he spoke with Jimmie Reynolds about the Great Bay Wildlife Refuge and the changes will probably take place by the end of the year. The area may be unmanned most of the time. Commissioner Ross asked if the NH Air National Guard would take over security of the GBWLR. The Chief stated that he does not believe that the NHANG will be responsible for security of the area. Commissioner Ross suggested that the Chief contact NHANG base commander to see how best to provide security for the area, and also contact Senator Gregg's office and express our concerns about the dangers of leaving such a large area open without security provisions. Commissioner Ross said that security of the area may go on the back burner until a violent crime occurs. He said the biggest threat may be kids going into the area with beer/alcohol or canoeing into the area and camping for long periods of time unnoticed. Commissioner Ross suggested that perhaps the Department of Homeland Security may be of some assistance. There may be grant money available to hire another officer due to the added need for security of the GBWLR. The Chief said that he will speak with Jimmie Reynolds to see who he recommends we contact about the situation. C. Review of Sealed Minutes - The Commissioners reviewed the non-public minutes of May 22, 2006. On a MOTION by Commissioner Hoyt and seconded by Commissioner Kent, the Commission voted unanimously to keep the minutes sealed. V. NEW BUSINESS A. The Commissioners reviewed the purchase order file. B. The Chief told the Commissioners that the file server needs to be updated. He told the Commissioners that the cost of the communication equipment will be charged to the Capital Reserve Communications line item. The estimate for the hardware is $3,755, which does not include labor costs. That will be determined once the equipment is installed. C. The Chief told the Commissioners that he and Officer Garvin went to Lee PD to see their Dodge cruiser. The Chief is getting figures on both the Dodge Charger and the Ford Crown Vic cruisers. The Chief told the Commissioners that he has concerns that the cost to outfit the Dodge would be quite high, since none of the equipment in the Crown Vic's can be transferred to the Dodge. Also, the tires on the Fords are 16 inch, but the tires on the Dodge are 17 inch and there is no state bid available for the tires. It was the unanimous decision of the Commissioners and the Chief to stay with the Ford Crown Vic cruisers. D. The Chief told the Commissioners that repair to the sallyport floor and the front sidewalks should take place soon. E. Other New Business - Commissioner Kent said that the officers are doing a good job monitoring traffic on town roads. Commissioner Kent said that he has seen the cruiser on several different town roads lately. The Chief told the Commissioners that a resident at 161 Newington Road, which is actually in Greenland, expressed his concern about the speeders in that area so the officers have been monitoring the traffic in town on a regular basis. VI. NEXT MEETING DATE/TIME The next meeting of the Police Commission is scheduled for Monday, October 2, 2006, at 4:00 p.m. at the police department. VII ADJOURNMENT On a MOTION by Commissioner Kent and seconded by Commissioner Ross, the Commission voted unanimously to adjourn at 5:10 p.m. For Paul Kent, Secretary by Diana St. Laurent
|
|
Copyright © 2003 Newington Police Department
|