Police Advisory Commission
Town Hall, 16 Old Town Road, Block Island, RI 02807
Thursday, February 1, 2024
4:00pm Minutes
Present: Chair Jim Hinthorn, Members Andy Transue, John Spier and Carolyn Collins. Also, in attendance Police Chief Paul Deane and Laurel Payne to take minutes.
Jim Hinthorn called the meeting to order at 4:00 pm.
1. Discuss and act on Minutes of November 16, 2023 Meeting-
John Spier made motion to approve the November 16th minutes, Andy Transue seconded and all were in favor. 4 Ayes(Hinthorn, Transue, Spier, Collins) 0 Nays
2. Discuss and act on the status of Police Log (general statistics on police activity) in BI Times as communication vehicle to the community. Where is the bottle neck on this topic and how do we address it?
Andy Transue had received some feedback that a log would have a negative impact on tourism. John Spier commented that a log would provide the one benefit of acting as a deterrent. All agreed that a log would show that enforcement was happening on the Island. Chief Paul Deane will submit statistics only to the paper in June. Carolyn Collins also mentioned that it can provide helpful information as well for visitors.
3. Discussion with newly appointed Chief Deane on how PAC can be helpful to him and the police department at large.
Chief Paul Deane reported that he knows where the department is currently and what needs to be done. They are currently working on accreditation. Jim Hinthorn reiterated that the board is here to help him in whatever capacity is needed as an advisory and liaison group.
Discussion ensued regarding roads/parking and taxis.
Chief Paul Deane wants everyone to know that he has an open-door policy and can go to him with any issue in confidence and without fear of judgement. He encourages this and the board can help get the word out to residents.
4. Discuss and act on meeting dates for the remainder of 2024.
Jim Hinthorn will be away for the April meeting. John Spier made a motion to approve the 2024 year calendar, Jim Hinthorn seconded and all were in favor.
4 Ayes(Hinthorn, Transue, Spier, Collins) 0 Nays
Respectfully submitted Approved: April 25th, 2024
Laurel Payne