Police Advisory Commission
Town Hall, 16 Old Town Road, Block Island, RI 02807
Thursday, July 20, 2023
4:00pm
Minutes
Present: Chair Jim Hinthorn, Members Andy Transue, Carolyn Collins and Tristan Payne. John Spier was absent. Also, in attendance Police Chief John Lynch and Laurel Payne to take minutes.
Jim Hinthorn called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm.
1. Discuss and act on Minutes of May 18, 2023 Meeting
Mr. Transue made a motion to approve the minutes, Ms. Collins seconded, all were in favor.
3 Ayes (Hinthorn, Transue, Collins) 0 Nays 1 Absent (Spier)
2. Welcome Tristan Payne to PAC
The committee welcomed Mr. Payne onto the Police Advisory Board, Chair Hinthorn noted that is was nice to finally have a full group. Mr. Payne gave a brief background.
3. Discuss and act on items from the June 13th PAC meeting with Town Council, Chief of Police and Town Manager
Chair Hinthorn summarized his thoughts on the meeting with the Town council, noting the committee is a liaison with the community only. Both he and Mr. Transue were disappointed with the outcome of the meeting.
4. Status of Police Log (general statistics on police activity) in BI Times as communication vehicle to the community
Chair Hinthorn commented on his frustration regarding the continued lack of information provided to the community regarding statistics on police activity. He gave a brief history on the steps which have already been taken to try and push this through. Mr. Transue noted the benefit, regarding budget. Mr. Hinthorn will write a note to the Town Council requesting they move forward with a log. Chief Lynch noted that there are 2 sides to noting crimes including negative journalism. Mr. Hinthorn felt that there is no downside to providing statistics.
5. Discussion with the Chief regarding how the summer season is going.
Chief Lynch gave a report on the 4th of July. He felt that his team was prepared and overall, the day went without any major problems. Mr. Transue mentioned that he heard no complaints or negative feedback.
6. Discuss and act on our role as liaison with the community. How is that going to work?
A process for complaints will be the focus after the summer season.
Mr. Payne asked about accreditation as certain policies will be needed to fulfill requirements. Chief Lynch commented that we are behind most police departments currently. Eventually there will be a program for them to use as well as cameras for the police officers.
Mr. Transue made a motion to adjourn at 4:54, Mr. Payne seconded. All were in favor.
4 Ayes (Hinthorn, Transue, Collins, Payne) 0 Nays 1 Absent (Spier)
Respectfully submitted,
Laurel Payne Approved: 11/16/2023