Title
Resolution to Approve the Protection of Civil Liberties
Body
Department: Executive
Council District: All
Public Hearing: No
Advertising Date/By: N/A.
Contact 1 and Phone: Wayne Scott, Police Chief, 373-2010
Contact 2 and Phone: Tom Carruthers, City Attorney, 373-2320
PURPOSE:
To adopt a resolution affirming the commitment of the City to the protection and preservation of the civil liberties of all persons in Greensboro, the institution of practices to ensure unbiased police services to the community, and to improve the relationship between law enforcement personnel and the public.
BACKGROUND:
In June 2015, the City Manager directed the Chief of Police to review and develop a resolution similar to that adopted by Charlotte concerning measures to protect civil liberties of the community during police encounters. In September 2015, the Chief of Police referred the matter of the development of the resolution to the Bias-Based Policing Committee, an informal committee of Greensboro citizens and police officers which was formed in 2011 to provide guidance on an as-needed basis to help GPD in developing law enforcement policies by providing the perspective of private citizens. The committee met numerous times to review current police policies and practices, and to consider the terms of a resolution to protect civil liberties which would address the concerns and desires of the Greensboro community. The committee proposed, developed and adopted the attached recommended civil liberties resolution which commits the City, its employees and the public to the recognition and preservation of fundamental civil liberties for all people, enacts standards for fair and equal treatment of all persons during police encounters and other City services, and supports the improvement of relationships between GPD and all people of Greensboro.
BUDGET IMPACT:
None.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
It is recommended that City Council approve the resolution.