05/05/2021 - Meeting MaterialsRacial Equity in Policing Commission Agenda
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Racial Equity in Policing Commission
Salt Lake City Utah
Wednesday, May 5, 2021
5:00 p.m.
This meeting is a discussion among Commissioners and select presenters. The public is welcome. Items
scheduled may be moved or discussed during a different portion of the meeting based on circumstances or
availability of speakers.
This meeting will be an electronic meeting pursuant to the Core Commission determination that conducting
the meeting at a physical location presents a substantial risk to the health and safety of those who may be
present at the anchor location. The Commission Meeting will not have a physical location and all attendees
will connect remotely.
Members of the public may provide public comment by joining through Zoom (registration in advance
required) https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CySOZ_e5SyeuaGAOu8iVlg or by calling 1-800-934-
9182 at the time of the meeting.
You may follow along with the meeting on the SLC REP Live Commission Meeting YouTube Channel. To
engage in the listening process, please visit www.slcrepcommission.com.
1. Welcome and Public Meeting Guidelines
Confirm the determination of the Core Commissioners to meet electronically because meeting at
a physical location presents a substantial risk to the health and safety of those who may be
present at the anchor location.
During this portion of the meeting, Commissioners may raise topics and discuss current events
that may impact or influence the Commission’s overall work, discussions, and deliberations to
provide recommendations to the Mayor and City Council regarding the Salt Lake City Police
Department’s policies, budget, and culture. No action will be taken during this portion of the
meeting. Matters discussed during this portion of the meeting may be scheduled on a subsequent
agenda for follow-up.
2. Review of Minutes from April 7, 2021 and March 24, 2021
3. Core Commissioner Announcement
Commissioner Prospero has an announcement on behalf of the Core Commissioners
4. Public Comment (limited to 15 minutes)
Attendees may be provided one or two minutes of time, determined by the number of
attendees and the time available determined by the Commission. Please observe the time
limit stated at the beginning of the public comment period so everyone may have a
chance to speak.
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Per the public meeting guidelines, keep comments free of discriminatory language
referring to a person or group based on their religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, color,
descent, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age or other gender identity factor. Items
or comments that disrupt the meeting, intimidate other participants or that may cause
safety concerns are not allowed.
5. Reminder of the City's Annual Budget Timeline & Input for Annual Budget & Matrix Consulting
Report
City Council staff will review the timeline and ways to provide comment for both the City's
current annual budget deliberations and the provided Matrix Budget Consulting Report.
6. Listening Session – May 19, 2021 6 pm
Discussion regarding the plan for the upcoming Listening Session.
7. Policies & Practice Recommendations Review
The Policies & Practices subcommittee will provide recommendations to the full Commission
prior to sharing them with the City Council and Mayor at an upcoming City Council meeting.
8. Presentation Summary of draft resolution from White Coats for Black Lives Matter
The Commission may review the summary of a proposed resolution for the City’s consideration
on Racism as a Public Health Crisis. Meeting Materials: Draft Resolution
9. Follow Up & Takeaways from Small Group Dialogues
10. Standing Items
Subcommittee Reports
o Training Subcommittee
o Policies & Practice Subcommittee
o School Safety Subcommittee
o Youth Subcommittee
Commission items of business
o Other including Scheduling Items
Discussion of the City Council with City Human Resources & the Police
Department, including police recruitment, hiring and promotions is scheduled
for the May 4th Work Session.
Opportunity to attend the City Council Work Session on behalf of the
Commission (5-10 minutes overview of the work in progress); optional for 3-4
commissioners per meeting generally between 2 pm and 5 pm.
May 6 (tentative), 11, 13 (tentative), 18, and 20 (tentative)
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11. TENTATIVE Closed Session
The Commission will consider a motion to enter into a Closed Session. A closed meeting
described under Section 52-4-205 may be held for specific purposes including, but not limited to:
a. discussion of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health
of an individual;
b. strategy sessions to discuss pending or reasonably imminent litigation;
c. discussion regarding deployment of security personnel, devices, or systems; and
d. investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct.
A closed meeting may also be held for attorney-client matters that are privileged pursuant to Utah
Code § 78B-1-137, and for other lawful purposes that satisfy the pertinent requirements of the
Utah Open and Public Meetings Act.
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING
On or before 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 4 the undersigned, duly appointed City Recorder, does hereby
certify that the above notice and agenda was (1) posted on the Utah Public Notice Website created under
Utah Code Section 63F-1-701, and (2) a copy of the foregoing provided to The Salt Lake Tribune and/or
the Deseret News and to a local media correspondent and any others who have indicated interest.
CINDY LOU TRISHMAN
SALT LAKE CITY RECORDER
Final action may be taken in relation to any topic listed on the agenda. People with disabilities may
make requests for reasonable accommodation, which may include alternate formats, interpreters, and
other auxiliary aids and services. Please make requests at least two business days in advance. To make a
request, please contact City staff at REPCommission@slcgov.com or 801-535-7644, or relay service 711.
Racial Equity in Policing Commission Minutes
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Racial Equity in Policing Commission
Salt Lake City Utah
Regular Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, April 7, 2021
5:00 p.m.
The Racial Equity in Policing Commission met in an electronic meeting pursuant to the Salt Lake City
Emergency Proclamation and determination of the Core Commissioners. Minutes are provided in
conjunction with the video/audio file.
_________________________________________________________________________
Commission Members Virtual Attendance: Commissioners Shifflett, McDonald, Ahmad, Banuri,
Powell, Suarez, Prospero, Salazar-Hall, Davis, Anjewierden, Hawkins, Solovi Jr., and Johnson
Commission Members Absent: Commissioners Mberwa, Kum, Ka’ili, Romero, Smith, Oommen,
Eldridge, Sagato-Mauga
Langdon Facilitators Attendance: Larry Schooler, Dante James, Siobhan Locke, Josh King
Staff in Virtual Attendance: Rachel Otto, Mayor’s Chief of Staff; Mark Kittrell, Deputy City Attorney;
Allison Rowland, Council Public Policy Analyst; Cindy Lou Trishman, City Recorder; Kaletta Lynch,
Mayor’s Special Projects Manager; Brendyn Scott, Police Department Office; Kira Luke, Council Public
Engagement/Policy Analyst Lindsey Nikola, Mayor’s Communications Director; Lt. Yvette Zayas, Police
Department; Chief Mike Brown, Police Department; Assistant Chief Tim Doubt, Police Department; Sven
Karabegovic, Mayor’s office Intern; and Weston Clark, Mayor’s Senior Advisor.
The meeting was called to order at 5:05 pm by Dante James, Facilitator
1. Welcome and Public Meeting Guidelines
Read aloud the confirmation of the determination of the Core Commissioners to meet
electronically because meeting at a physical location presents a substantial risk to the health and
safety of those who may be present at the anchor location.
During this portion of the meeting, Commissioners may raise topics and discuss current events
that may impact or influence the Commission’s overall work, discussions, and deliberations to
provide recommendations to the Mayor and City Council regarding the Salt Lake City Police
Department’s policies, budget, and culture. No action will be taken during this portion of the
meeting. Matters discussed during this portion of the meeting may be scheduled on a subsequent
agenda for follow-up.
No topics were raised for this item.
2. Review of Minutes: January 28, 2021
January 28, 2021 Listening Session Minutes were approved by consensus.
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3. Public Comment (limited to 15 minutes)
● Attendees wishing to make a public comment may be provided one or two minutes of
time, which is to be determined by the Commission based on the number of attendees and
the available time for public comment. Please observe the time limit stated at the
beginning of the public comment period so everyone may have a chance to speak.
● Per the public meeting guidelines, keep comments free of discriminatory language
referring to a person or group based on their religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, color,
descent, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age or other gender identity factor. Items
or comments that disrupt the meeting, intimidate other participants, or that may cause
safety concerns are not allowed.
Beverly Hawkins was in attendance but stated she had no comment, just encouraged the
Commission to move forward with their work.
4) City Update
A member of the Mayor’s staff will provide an update on the City’s hiring efforts for a Chief
Equity Officer, and details of the position.
Mr. James shared that the Partner-Pair program is ongoing, and the officers are waiting to hear
from the assigned Commissioners to arrange future meetings.
Rachel Otto provided an update to the Commission on the new position of Chief Equity Officer.
Ms. Otto shared the history of the development of the position as part of the Citywide Equity Plan
(both internally and externally for accessing opportunities) proposed by members of the transition
committee, the funding secured last year, with the process to begin in 2021. Ms. Otto summarized
the Equity Officer position with these points:
• Senior staff level reporting directly to the Mayor
• Position was posted, City received great interest in the position
• 20 applicants advanced to the second round; anticipated conclusion with 8 candidates
anticipated to be interviewed in the next few weeks (community members are included in
the interview committee for this round); no definitive start date
• Selected candidate is proposed to:
o Work with an inter-departmental team to shepherd the implementation of the
Citywide Equity Plan (currently establishing the liaisons and structure)
o Oversee the City Human Rights Commission and create a vision to elevate the
HRC and establish a clear process to evaluate decisions with valuable insight of
the community members;
o Oversee the ADA Community Liaison and New American Liaison
o Consider the role with the Racial Equity in Policing Commission including the
position may:
carry some administrative responsibilities for the commission
functionality (Ms. Otto welcomed recommendations for the positions
connection to the Commission)
oversee the recommendations of the Commission and the implementation
thereof
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Commissioner Anjewierden shared it would be helpful in building the
recommendations to understand the inclusion of oversight within the
full-time position.
In conclusion, Ms. Otto shared the balance of building a plan while also permitting the vision of
the selected applicant to be implemented; and reassured the Commission of the continued support
of City staff for the Commission.
5. Discussion relating to the Fiscal Year 2022 Police Budget
The Commission may discuss goals and purposes relating to the City’s Fiscal Year 2022 Budget.
Commissioners Prospero summarized components of a small group meeting with Matrix
Consulting who is completing an audit requested by the City Council. The summary included:
• Potential disciplinary matrix (guidelines) for instances or actions which are against
policy; potential review of the Commission and the public; concern is the human bias but
generally supportive of the intent.
o Ms. Rowland, City Council staff, clarified although the component may not
directly associate with the budget, the scope of the audit requested was broad and
that the final recommendations are planned to be presented to the Commission on
April 21.
• Consideration of funding civilian paraprofessionals, which aligned with a
recommendation from the Commission to have civilian support/social worker support on
various types of calls for service.
• Recommendation for funding increased police mental health wellness
o Ms. Otto, Mayor’s Chief of Staff, shared that mental health access is a priority in
the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 budget; Chief Brown shared the plan of a clinician in
the department, housed in the building will build trust and permit readily
available services; the opportunity may contribute to an increased awareness,
lessening the impact on families and increasing the objective of community
engagement.
• Potential civilian leadership for internal affairs
• Ms. Otto, Mayor’s Chief of Staff, confirmed the position is in the hiring stage and will be
a civilian position although police experience will be helpful.
6. Discussion regarding Community Engagement
The Commission may discuss the definition of community engagement in relation to the Police
Department and review engagement opportunities between officers and the Commission.
Mr. James introduced the topic and presented the option for the Commission to solidify a
definition of community engagement, as it seems there may be a disconnect with what it looks
and feels like between the perspective of officers and the public. Trying to get the best
engagement of police officers (some things may inhibit feedback – recordings command staff),
desire to make things available of how to best engage input from everyone
Mr. Schooler led the discussion beginning with the definition of the opportunity for the
community to engage with and influence the decisions and actions being made by the police
department.
Commissioner Shifflett and Mr. James spoke to the difference between community engagement
and community policing; it was determined they are connected but engagement may include the
intent to solicit feedback on how to best impact and serve within the community policing model.
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Commissioner Powell shared content from Seattle (Community Engagement Report) supporting
community-led strategies.
Commissioners Suarez, Anjewierden and Prospero shared personal experiences of opportunities
officers may have to interact or engage with members of the community.
Commissioner Anjewierden emphasized the importance of considering the overarching nature of
the institution and the necessary continued efforts to engage and solicit critical feedback while
building relationships, and the opportunities necessary to consider perspectives from the
community and from the officers while addressing elements of the institution.
Commissioner Reverend Davis shared the opportunity is extended to both paths – the community
reaching out to the police as well as the police reaching out to the community.
Commissioner Prospero shared the impact of effective procedural justice when interactions are
accomplished with dignity and respect, noting the value of natural temperament and the
association to recruitment.
Mr. Schooler addressed the potential of holding a listening session between Police Officers and
Commission Members without command staff in attendance or a recording of the meeting. Mr.
Schooler noted there is a need for dialogue with frank and candid conversation, that may be
reported on at an open meeting.
Commission Members were supportive of the approach and Deputy City Attorney Mark Kittrell
stated he would respond to the Commission in an email of the potential to hold the meeting
without recording.
Mr. Schooler closed the discussion with the following points:
• Commission may provide a definition after future discussions
• National examples of community policing will assist in the development of the definition
• Identified formal and informal community engagement opportunities
• Enhancing recruiting diverse temperament and of coaching consideration
Commissioner Banuri requested the community engagement discussion be developed with a
framework for results.
Commissioners McDonald, Davis, and Hawkins expressed support of the listening session with
officers.
Commissioner Anjewierden requested the consideration of a listening session with the Command
staff as well as the one addressed with frontline officers.
7. Standing Items
● Subcommittee Reports
o Training Subcommittee
Mr. James reported that the Training Subcommittee reviewed the content of the
resolution proposed by Commissioner Powell and is supportive, and that the
subcommittee is reviewing the Citizens Academy and content.
o Policies & Practice Subcommittee
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Mr. King shared that the discussion regarding connecting with the Police Officers was a
component of their recent discussion as well as the details of the Chief Equity Officer. He
concluded with an update on the scheduled items for the next subcommittee meeting –
discussion with the co-response program and community center and point of crisis.
Commissioner Powell raised the proposed resolution from the organization of White
Coats for Black Lives Matter and requested each Commission member to provide edits to
him before Wednesday, April 14 for full Commission review on April 21.
It was clarified that edits of the document are not required to be in the full Commission
setting, although the recommendation does require the approval of the Commission in a
public meeting.
o School Safety Subcommittee
Ms. Locke shared that the School Safety Subcommittee presented recommendations to
the City Council.
o Youth Subcommittee
No report this week
8. Commission Business
o Other including Scheduling Items
▪ Proposed next live, large group Listening Session scheduled for May 19, 2021
at 6 pm
Mr. Schooler updated the Commission on the consideration and potential date
for a large group Listening Session similar to the one completed in January.
▪ Discussion regarding the Commission and recommendations to the City
regarding the Commission’s work
Mr. James stated that the final report for the end of this initial term of the
Commission will include all recommendations provided at various stages of the
Commission’s work and raised the question of what the Commissioners
envision as the initial term of the Commission.
Commissioners discussed the options and considerations including:
• Desire to continue the budget for the support and facilitation of the
Commission
• Consideration of a hiatus to reflect on implementation
• Dialogue continuing at a slower pace
• Optics of the slower pace or hiatus
• Quarterly assessment of implemented recommendations with continued
engagement
• Rotation of commissioners
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• Establishment of the Commission as an ongoing effort of the City
• Consideration of the potential meetings which could occur during the
summer (particularly the new superintendent)
• Review of in-person meetings and the hybrid option of scheduling
Commissioner Prospero requested models used for Commissions and
Boards.
Mr. James noted that value of including a general recommendation in the
upcoming recommendations to the City Council from the Policies &
Practice Subcommittee, as those are scheduled for presentation prior to
budget decisions.
Commissioners discussed the general statement and agreed to include the
general recommendation within the Policies & Practices Recommendations
which may be scheduled for full Commission review on April 21. Mr.
James stated subcommittees should discuss the general statement at the next
meeting.
Commissioners provided general statement recommendations to continue
the Commission and include the necessity of a facilitator although the
format is undecided.
▪ Opportunity to attend the City Council Work Session on behalf of the
Commission (5-10 minutes overview of the work in progress); optional for 3-4
commissioners per meeting generally between 2 pm and 5 pm.
• April 13, 20
• May 4, 11, 18, 25
Mr. James noted the opportunity for Commissioners to attend the Work Session.
Commissioner McDonald expressed concern over the Chauvin Trial in the death of
George Floyd and the potential necessity of an emergency meeting. Ms. Trishman
informed the Commission of the necessary 24-hour notice unless that is impossible;
and agreed an email with necessary considerations would be provided.
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9. TENTATIVE Closed Session
The Commission will consider a motion to enter into a Closed Session. A closed meeting
described under Section 52-4-205 may be held for specific purposes including, but not limited to:
i. discussion of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health
of an individual;
ii. strategy sessions to discuss pending or reasonably imminent litigation;
iii. discussion regarding deployment of security personnel, devices, or systems; and
iv. investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct.
A closed meeting may also be held for attorney-client matters that are privileged pursuant to Utah
Code § 78B-1-137, and for other lawful purposes that satisfy the pertinent requirements of the
Utah Open and Public Meetings Act.
Item not held.
Meeting adjourned at 6:53 pm
Cindy Lou Trishman
City Recorder
This document is not intended to serve as a full transcript as additional discussion may have been
held; please refer to the audio or video for entire content pursuant to Utah Code §52-4-203(2)(b).
This document along with the digital recording constitute the official minutes of the Racial Equity in
Policing Commission Regular Commission Meeting on April 7, 2021.
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Racial Equity in Policing Commission
Salt Lake City Utah
Regular Meeting Minutes
Wednesday, March 24, 2021
5:00 p.m.
The Racial Equity in Policing Commission met in an electronic meeting pursuant to the Salt Lake City
Emergency Proclamation and determination of the Core Commissioners. Minutes are provided in
conjunction with the video/audio file.
Complete Meeting Materials
_______________________________________________________________________
Commission Members Virtual Attendance: Commissioners Kum, Ka’ili, Shifflett, McDonald, Smith,
Banuri, Powell, Davis, Suarez, Prospero, Salazar-Hall, Solovi Jr., Anjewierden, Hawkins, and Johnson
Commission Members Absent: Commissioners Mberwa, Romero, Oommen, Ahmad, Eldridge, Sagato-
Mauga
Langdon Facilitators Attendance: Larry Schooler, Dante James, Siobhan Locke, Josh King
Staff in Virtual Attendance: Cindy Lou Trishman, City Recorder; David Litvack, Mayor’s Senior
Advisor; Kaletta Lynch, Mayor’s Special Projects Manager; Crystal Grady, Police Department Officer;
Brendyn Scott, Police Department Officer; Lindsey Nikola, Mayor’s Communications Director; Lehua
Weaver, Council Associate Deputy Director; Assistant Chief Tim Doubt, Police Department; Chief Mike
Brown, Police Department; Sven Karabegovic, Mayor’s office Intern; and Weston Clark, Mayor’s Senior
Advisor.
The meeting was called to order at 5:05 pm
1. Welcome and Public Meeting Guidelines
Confirm the determination of the Core Commissioners to meet electronically because meeting at
a physical location presents a substantial risk to the health and safety of those who may be
present at the anchor location.
Mr. James opened the meeting acknowledging the loss of life due to recent tragic events in
Atlanta Georgia and in Boulder, Colorado remarking on the devastation of the events.
Commissioners, Facilitators and Officers shared personal experiences and perspectives including:
• Gun violence and proposed policy enhancements reflecting stricter control of gun
purchases or comprehensive background studies
• Hate Crime definition and legislation
• Loss of life for the victims in the Boulder shooting, particularly of Officer Terry
and the way the information was presented on behalf of his death and the overall
loss of life
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• Apprehension of suspect varies on the race, while also the media tone and
language is different when the suspect is a person of color
• Expressions of respect and appreciation for the work of officers to enter into
dangerous situations at the risk of their own life to protect others
• Gender violence is also a concern
• Preparation of the Police Department Public Order Unit for potential unrest from
the Chauvin trial
• Consideration of training efforts and the receptive temperaments helpful to the
willing sacrifice of protecting others at the cost of your own life; specifically, the
benefits, pay, and social climate of officer recruiting and potential improvements
• Opportunity to share perspective is a value at this time, and it is highly
encouraged to engage in dialogue between Commissioners and Officers
• All members of society are human beings and active injustice of any form will
affect everyone indirectly or directly
2. Review of Minutes: January 28, 2021
Item not held.
3. Public Comment (limited to 15 minutes)
● Attendees may be provided one or two minutes of time, determined by the number of
attendees and the time available determined by the Commission. Please observe the time
limit stated at the beginning of the public comment period so everyone may have a
chance to speak.
● Per the public meeting guidelines, keep comments free of discriminatory language
referring to a person or group based on their religion, ethnicity, nationality, race, color,
descent, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age or other gender identity factor. Items
or comments that disrupt the meeting, intimidate other participants or that may cause
safety concerns are not allowed.
Beverly Hawkins commented about the protests from 2020, commending the police
officer restraint and sharing her observation that when protestors required assistance they
did reach out to police officers, illustrating the trust with local police officers.
Ms. Hawkins continued her comment on behalf of the Utah League of Women Voters
asking for suggested timing for her colleagues to reach out and provide comment to the
City Council and the Mayor about the Commission’s work.
Council and Mayor staff suggested the feedback be provided at any time through the
REPcommission@slcgov.com email address or through the Council comment email
(council.comments@slcgov.com) address or during public meetings at the General
Comment portion of the meeting.
Mr. Schooler also provided the www.slcrepcommission.com site for feedback
opportunities.
4) Commission Business
o Resignation of Commission member; Core Commission Member change; and
discussion of replacement Commission Member
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▪ Vacancy Memorandum
Mr. Schooler presented the memorandum and facilitated the discussion of the commission
membership, noting the opportunity for the Commission to first decide the interest on
filling the vacancy in the immediate time period and then following that decision to
determine cultural or ethnic representation desired.
Commission members addressed the timing of the Commission and the first-year
recommendations, representation from the Asian American or Pacific Islander
communities, and the potential turnover after the initial year of the Commission.
Commissioner Powell noted the desire for increased representation among the youth
subcommittee. Commissioner Banuri added that she identifies as Asian.
Mr. Schooler summarized the conversation with the consensus-approved conclusion that
the Commission has chosen not to fill the vacancy at this time, but suggested additional
representation be added to the youth subcommittee from the Asian American or Pacific
Islander community who will be a rotating voting member.
o Other including Scheduling Items
▪ Partner Pair Program: Contact Kaletta Lynch if you are interested in
participating.
Mr. James shared the value of engaging in the program adding that some
members have expressed partnering with more than one member of the Police
Department; however, managing the time and interest of all Commission
members first is the priority. Commissioners were encouraged to reach out to
Kaletta before March 25 end of business day. Commissioner Powell expressed
interest, particularly with the Public Order Unit pairing and Kaletta agreed to
connect with him. Officer Grady also provided appreciation of the program and
issued a challenge to Commissioners to attend.
▪ Meeting opportunities with Matrix Consulting, the budget consultant working
with the City Council on the Police Department Budget Audit
Ms. Lynch shared that the scheduling of small group meetings is an option and a
doodle poll will be provided.
▪ Opportunity to attend the City Council Work Session on behalf of the
Commission (5-10 minutes overview of the work in progress); optional for 3-4
commissioners per meeting generally between 2 pm and 5 pm.
• April 6, 13, 20
Mr. James noted the opportunity for Commission members to share with the
Council the work being completed.
4. Discussion relating to the Fiscal Year 2022 Police Budget
The Commission may discuss goals and purposes relating to the City’s Fiscal Year 2022 Budget.
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Item not held.
5. Data Sharing
Facilitators and Commission Members may discuss the data resources reviewed in Subcommittee
discussions.
Item not held.
6. Follow-up Discussion: Best Practices
Commission members working on the Literature Review may share best practices researched.
Material provided during the meeting, please see complete meeting materials link at the top of the Minutes
to access.
Commissioner Prospero shared a presentation with the Commission and provided an update on
the literature review, focusing specifically the Crisis Assistance Helping Out On The Streets
(CAHOOTS) program from Eugene and Springfield Oregon area. The following points were
summarized:
• Mobilized in two-person teams (medic and crisis worker)
• No weapons carried
• Dispatched through the Police-Fire-Ambulance communication or the non-emergency
number
• No law enforcement included in the teams
• Calls may result in police and CAHOOTS service
• Funding is through the City (Eugene) Police Department
o 31 hours/day for overlap coverage with multiple vans
o Funding and service evaluation is completed through the Police and also through
CAHOOTS
• Top three reasons for service: welfare check, assist the public, or transport
• Service count has doubled between 2014-2019
• 5-8% of police calls for service were diverted to CAHOOTS, with 2% of the instances
included the Police
• The system began as a community policing initiative
Commissioners discussed the service, potential crossover with the CIT/HOST teams, recent
legislation requiring Emergency Medical Service teams to be trained in mental health
conditions, and the top five calls for service which the Police may be able to divert.
Additional conversation points including the desire to include the City’s Dispatch Department
to discuss their training and consideration of the approach.
Mr. King commented that the City had also reviewed the CAHOOTS service and shared that
the Policies & Practices subcommittee has discussed this and other programs. He also noted
in an upcoming subcommittee meeting Jessica Waters, Social Work Director at SLCPD will
be available to discuss considerations and directions the police have reviewed.
Mr. James requested the Commission consider a general recommendation to implement the
service and conduct an evaluation of the budget measures necessary to address police calls
and interactions not requiring uniformed officers. He confirmed the next step is to hear from
the Policies and Practices subcommittee on subsequent discussion and consider this as a
potential general recommendation.
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7. Standing Items
● Subcommittee Reports
o Training Subcommittee
Mr. James provided an update on the Training Subcommittee and shared the current
review of recruiting efforts (minimal budget, no existing full-time employee); the hiring
process, particularly the background check; and the citizens academy curriculum. Mr.
James shared that the title of the citizens academy will be changed as it had been pointed
out the title citizen does not apply to all who may be interested in being engaged and
learning about police work.
o Policies & Practice Subcommittee
Mr. King provided an update on the Policies & Practice Subcommittee and shared the
current focus of the group is to review the response to mental health call for service and
the development and collaboration between SLCPD and response programs for social
services; to continue the development of the body-worn camera ordinance; to continue
discussion on the use of force policy review. Mr. King also shared that the subcommittee
passed a recommendation to the Training subcommittee to evaluate the opportunity to
conduct training on the history of policing.
o School Safety Subcommittee
▪ On March 7, 2021 Draft Recommendations were approved; however,
feedback received has adjusted the recommendations. The Commission
may review the adjustments.
Meeting materials: Initially Approved Recommendations, Striving for
Equity and the Agreement between Salt Lake City School District & Salt
Lake City Corporation.
Ms. Locke provided an update on the suggested adjustments to the initial
recommendations, having learned of potential difficulties with potential implementation.
The follow points were included as the adjustments:
1) Promising Youth Program
a. Adjusted the recommendation of moving the program from the Police
department to maintain its development while under the Police department
due to some funding resource requirements; however, with a suggestion to
revisit the program in one year
b. Including long-term budgetary recommendation to continue the program
beyond grant uses
c. Noted that resources and space for the program will be within the shared
space of the School Resource Officer (SRO) program
d. Funding previously noted that the SRO program is provided for nine months
of the year, but after additional conversation was confirmed to have funding
for the full 12-month calendar year
2) Full Time Employee civilian position recommended for the Mayor’s office would be
developed in collaboration between the school district and police department
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Commissioners discussed the points and agreed by consensus to move the adjusted
recommendations to the City Council and Mayor.
o Youth Subcommittee
Commissioner Prospero provided an update on behalf of the Youth Subcommittee and
clarified that there are no specific recommendations being prepared by the subcommittee
since the influence of the youth in the subcommittees is noted and appreciated.
8. TENTATIVE Closed Session
The Commission will consider a motion to enter into a Closed Session. A closed meeting
described under Section 52-4-205 may be held for specific purposes including, but not limited to:
a. discussion of the character, professional competence, or physical or mental health
of an individual;
b. strategy sessions to discuss pending or reasonably imminent litigation;
c. discussion regarding deployment of security personnel, devices, or systems; and
d. investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct.
A closed meeting may also be held for attorney-client matters that are privileged pursuant to Utah
Code § 78B-1-137, and for other lawful purposes that satisfy the pertinent requirements of the
Utah Open and Public Meetings Act.
Item not held
Mr. James concluded the meeting and shared that although specific recommendations may not be feasible
in this initial year, the inclusion of general themes in the final recommendations is valuable to the Council
and the Mayor.
Meeting adjourned at 7:03 pm
Cindy Lou Trishman
City Recorder
This document is not intended to serve as a full transcript as additional discussion may have been
held; please refer to the audio or video for entire content pursuant to Utah Code §52-4-203(2)(b).
This document along with the digital recording constitute the official minutes of the Racial Equity in
Policing Commission Regular Commission Meeting on March 24, 2021.
RESOLUTION NO. XX OF 2021
Whereas, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declares that “Racism is a
system—consisting of structures, policies, practices, and norms—that assigns value
and determines opportunity based on the way people look or the color of their skin”; and
Whereas racism is a serious public health threat because racism - both interpersonal
and structural - is proven to have harmful impacts to the mental and physical health of
communities of color; and
Whereas racism is declared as a public health crisis that directly impacts Salt Lake City
residents resulting in health disparities that are both measurable and preventable; and
Whereas, racism is a key driver of the determinants of health, shaping access to
resources such as education, housing, employment, and healthcare that creates
opportunities for health; and
Whereas, outcomes from these structural inequities can be seen through increased
exposure to environmental toxins, unmet housing needs, disparities in policing and
criminal justice system, inadequate private and public investment, decreased access to
educational and employment opportunities and multitudes of health measures; and
WHEREAS this nation and the states and municipalities within have been designed to
systematically disadvantage minoritized racial and ethnic groups thereby creating health
disparities that have persisted even after the abolition of slavery and Civil Rights
Movement; and
Whereas, the COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated how pre-existing structural inequities
created heavier burdens of disease, death, and social consequences onto communities
of color in Utah; and
Whereas, the data from the Utah Department of Health reveal stark differences in health
between persons of color and their white counterparts;
1. Odds of infection were 3 times more likely in very high deprivation area
such as Glendale and 2 times more likely such as Rose Park, where there
are high percentages of Latino and nonwhite residents;
2. The Latino communities account for 14.2% of Utah’s population, but 40%
of the state’s COVID-19 cases;
3. American Indian and Alaskan Native communities in Utah had a case
fatality rate that is roughly three times higher than the state average;
4. Black persons in Utah are significantly less likely to be screened for
colorectal cancer, but more likely to both contract and die from colorectal
cancer;
5. Black and Asian babies born in Utah are more likely to have a low birth
weight;
6. Pacific Islanders have twice the rate of infant mortality than the statewide
average;
Whereas, the Salt Lake City Council and Mayor believe we have a moral imperative to
combat racism, discrimination and inequities in all its manifestations; and
Whereas, leaders from Utah’s healthcare organizations declared systemic racism a
threat to the health of patients, families, and communities through economic and
resource inequities which result in poor health outcomes; and
Whereas, Salt Lake City has recently moved forward to develop a city-wide equity plan
with a goal to methodically review all City practices and policies and confront the
systems that have resulted in generational injustice and health inequities; and
Whereas, Salt Lake City remains committed to the work that it will take now and into the
future to dismantle our racist legacies so that all feel welcome and safe in Salt Lake
City; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Salt Lake City Council and Mayor as
follows:
1. That in our capacity as a local municipal authority that we declare racism as a
moral and public health crisis in our city, state, and nation.
2. That we reaffirm our commitment to the principles of the Utah Compact on Racial
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
3. That we commit to look internally, externally, and encourage all who reside, work,
and own businesses in our city to commit to the work necessary to dismantle
racist legacies and equitably work to repair our communities.
4. That we commit to seek out strategies and solutions to unfair institutions in our
society, businesses, government, and culture to improve the health outcomes
and the life of all citizens of color of Salt Lake City.
a. That as we continue our work going forward we will continue to be critical
about the policies and ordinances we create to ensure they do not add to
the compounding of inequities, and that they work to undo the damage
done over many years.
5. Commit to work with County Health officials and data partners to report and
review public health data including
a. City health metrics (disaggregating the data)
b. Current tasks to be done, next steps to address poor outcomes
c. Health report page on website
d. Increase transparency
Utilize City Equity staff to work with County Health partners to address systemic
barriers to health including racism.
References:
Bui, D. P., McCaffrey, K., Friedrichs, M., LaCross, N., Lewis, N. M., Sage, K., . . . Dunn, A.
(2020). Racial and ethnic disparities Among COVID-19 cases in WORKPLACE outbreaks
by industry Sector — Utah, March 6–June 5, 2020. MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality
Weekly Report, 69(33), 1133-1138. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm6933e3
Case counts: Coronavirus. (n.d.). Retrieved July 14, 2020, from
https://coronavirus.utah.gov/case-counts/
Lewis, N. M., Friedrichs, M., Wagstaff, S., Sage, K., LaCross, N., Bui, D., . . . Dunn, A.
(2020). Disparities in Covid-19 Incidence, hospitalizations, and testing, by Area-level
deprivation — Utah, March 3–JULY 9, 2020. MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly
Report, 69(38), 1369-1373. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm6938a4
Health improvement index. (n.d.). Retrieved March 24, 2021, from
https://ruralhealth.health.utah.gov/portal/health-improvement-index/