1.   Introduction of Members

The new Police Advisory Commission members introduced themselves: Carolyn Collins, Jim Hinthorn, Molly O’Neill and Andy Transue.

2.   Election of Officers

Molly O’Neill moved to postpone the Election of Offices due to John Spier’s absence and amend the agenda to move #3 to the end of the agenda, Jim Hinthorn seconded the motion. All were in favor and the motion carried.

            4 Ayes (Collins, Hinthorn, O’Neill, Transue)                      0 Nays        1 Absent (Spier)

3.   Quarterly meeting with the Chief of Police to discuss any challenges faced by the Department and community related to law enforcement and community issues

Molly O’Neill reported on the feedback she received regarding community issues;

Privately owned Electric scooters, mopeds, bikes have become a new issue, there are multiple units on island and they are able to go at very high speeds. The community has also reported that drinking is an ongoing issue. The issue of Mopeds continue. Lemonade stands have been observed on dangerous curves. Regarding traffic and sharing the road issues, it was stated that moped and bike riders need to be educated on the proper use of the roadways.

It was noted that there is an up swell in the lack of civility.  The community shares the sentiment that some of our visitors show little or no respect for our island and it is the belief of the commission that the community is responsible for creating expectations. A discussion then ensued about how to change the expectations of our visitors.

It was noted that the Police Chief, community policing and extra CSO’s have made a difference to the downtown feeling of safety this summer and that Police department has been very responsive and supportive. Jim Hinthorn suggested bringing back the police blotter for transparency and public information. The commission believes that education and communication with our visitors and community members will play a key role in improving the safety of our visitors and islanders. This includes but not limited to improved signage or informational info in guides/ferry/etc. The commission also spoke about the lack of speed limit signage on the roads

Police Chief Moynihan reported that mopeds can be regulated and scooters and bikes are not regulated under state law. Chief Moynihan advised the commission that there is a severe lack of technology in the department and they will be working to implement an electronic record keeping program in the fall. As well as initiating a website to improve transparency. Chief Moynihan also noted that the department will be prioritizing challenges such as, staffing and housing issues – requiring about 20 officers in the summer and 5 in winter. He reported that dispatcher staffing is too limited can be improved through improved technology. Chief Moynihan stated that he would like to see the Police building include housing in the basement and that the dispatch area is in dire need of remodeling to be more conducive.

The next agenda will include draft of a community policing needs survey to gather input.

4.   Selection of Member’s Terms (1 – 5 years, staggered)

The member’s terms were set as follows:

·         1 year term expiring 12/21: Molly O’Neill

·         2 year term expiring 12/22: John Spier

·         3 year term expiring 12/23: Carolyn Collins

·         4 year term expiring 12/24: Jim Hinthorn

·         5 year term expiring 12/25: Andy Transue

5.   Adopt Annual Meeting Schedule

The annual meeting schedule for 2021 was set as follows:

September 2^nd and November 18^th at 4:00 pm

Carolyn Collins left the meeting at 5:57 p.m.

Jim Hinthorn moved to adjourn the meeting as 6:13 p.m.  The motion was seconded by Andy Transue and carried

            4 Ayes (Collins, Hinthorn, O’Neill, Transue)                  0 Nays        1 Absent (Spier)

Millie McGinnes

Minutes Approved: September 2, 2021