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Police Commission Meeting Minutes 2017

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Meeting Minutes

01-16-2017 Police Commission Meeting Canceled
02-02-2017 Police Commission

February 2, 2017 Police Commission Special Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES

A Special Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Thursday, February 2, 2017, at 5:30 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law. Commissioner Hejl called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Sawyer with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Rose Hejl, Paul Haluska, Charles Sawyer, Robert Long, and Kevin Vana. Also present was Chief James Kveton. Absent from this meeting was Town Councilman Steven Hastings. No legal representation was present at tonight’s meeting.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

November 21, 2016 Regular Meeting – Commissioner Vana moved to approve the minutes from the November 21, 2016 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Haluska, the motion carried unanimously (5-0; Ayes – 5 / Nays – None).

BOARD APPOINTMENTS

Commissioner Haluska moved to maintain the same appointments that are currently in effect. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (5-0; Ayes – 5 / Nays – None).

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

Chief Kveton read the monthly report for December 2016. Chief Kveton stated from December 1, 2016 through December 31, 2016, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 17,509 miles and responded to 584 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 9 adult arrests with 13 charges being filed, and 3 juvenile arrests with 12 charges being filed. There were 163 traffic citations issued, along with 109 written warnings, for a total of 272 citations issued during the month of December 2016 by the officers of the St. John Police Department. Vehicle thefts totaled $0.00. Other thefts totaled $3,740.00. Recovered property totaled $665.00.

Chief Kveton stated he also provided each Commissioner tonight with a copy of the 2016 Year End Report. The report is all inclusive of the Year 2016 and goes through all the statistics normally presented for the year. There are some additional anecdotal information, photographs and narratives included in this Year End Report so that it makes it easier to understand all the activities of the St. John Police Department for the last 12 months. Commissioner Hejl thanked Chief Kveton for putting the Year End report together.

OLD BUSINESS

There were no matters of “Old Business.”

NEW BUSINESS

Emergency Hire Process – With the current vacancy at the Police Department, Commissioner Haluska moved to grant Chief Kveton authorization to proceed with the Emergency Hire Process to obtain a new officer for the Department as soon as possible. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (5-0; Ayes – 5 / Nays – None). Chief Kveton stated he would set-up all the necessary dates for the Emergency Hire Process, and he would then forward that information to the Commission. For the record, Chief Kveton stated he would basically run the same process as he did the last time in 2016. However, the only change that will be made, which is due to the Training Requirements for the State of Indiana, is the Emergency Hire is going to require that the applicants not only be a certified officer, but they are going to have to be an “Indiana” State Certified Officer.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Sawyer moved for adjournment. With a second by Commissioner Long, the motion carried (5-0; Ayes – 5 / Nays – None). The meeting adjourned at 5:34 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

02-27-2017 Police Commission Meeting Canceled
03-27-2017 Police Commission Meeting Canceled
04-24-2017 Police Commission

April 24, 2017 Police Commission Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

The April 2017 Regular Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Monday, April 24, 2017, at 6:00 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law, and followed an Executive Session of the Commission that started at 5:30 P.M. Commissioner Hejl called the meeting to order at 6:04 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Haluska with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Rose Hejl, Paul Haluska, Robert Long, and Kevin Vana. Also present were Chief James Kveton, Attorney David Austgen, and Town Council Liaison Steven Hastings. Absent from this meeting was Commissioner Charles Sawyer.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

February 2, 2017 Regular Meeting - Commissioner Haluska moved to approve the minutes from the February 2, 2017 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (4-0; Ayes – 4 / Nays – None).

CORRESPONDENCE / COMMUNICATIONS

There were no items of “Correspondence / Communications.”

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

Chief Kveton read the monthly report for March 2017. Chief Kveton stated from March 1, 2017 through March 31, 2017, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 15,955 miles and responded to 469 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 21 adult arrests with 40 charges being filed, and 4 juvenile arrests with 5 charges being filed. There were 223 traffic citations issued, along with 167 written warnings, for a total of 390 citations issued during the month of March 2017 by the officers of the St. John Police Department.

Chief Kveton advised in the last week or so, the Department has been extremely busy. Chief Kveton stated he sent out an e-mail earlier today notifying the Commission of an incident where two (2) men went into the Go-Lo Gas Station, located at 93rd Avenue and Wicker Avenue. While one individual distracted the clerk, the other individual took all the scratch off lottery tickets from the counter, and then they fled the store. Over the weekend, information was developed, and Det. Cpl. Steven Flores was able to identify the two (2) offenders. There are charges pending at this time. Currently, the two (2) subjects are not in custody.

OLD BUSINESS

There were no matters of “Old Business.”

HUMAN RESOURCES

Police and Fire Manpower Study by GovHR, Inc. – Chief Kveton advised this study is still ongoing. A draft report was prepared and is being reviewed. The final report should be forthcoming within the next month or so.

NEW BUSINESS

Approval of Resolutions / General Orders – Commissioner Haluska moved to table approval of the Resolutions / General Orders presented until the next regular meeting due to the volume of Resolutions / General Orders they received. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (4-0; Ayes – 4 / Nays – None).

CHIEF’S COMMENTS

Chief Kveton stated the Department seems to be coming along fairly well. They are currently finishing a process for hiring another individual to fill a vacancy.

ANY AND ALL

There were no matters brought up under “Any and All.”

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no subjects in the audience who made a public comment.

MEETING SCHEDULE

The next Regular Meeting will be held on Monday, May 22, 2017. Work Study Sessions and/or Executive Sessions will be held only if they are deemed necessary. All Executive Sessions will be advertised pursuant to law.

Attorney Austgen asked to confirm there will be an Executive Session at 5:30 P.M. on the night of the Commission’s next regularly scheduled meeting. Commissioner Hejl confirmed the Commission would have an Executive Session at 5:30 P.M. on Monday, May 22, 2017.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Haluska moved for adjournment. With a second by Commissioner Long, the motion carried (4-0; Ayes – 4 / Nays – None). The meeting adjourned at 6:09 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

05-22-2017 Police Commission

May 22, 2017 Police Commission Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

The May 2017 Regular Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Monday, May 22, 2017, at 6:00 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law, and followed an Executive Session of the Commission that started at 5:30 P.M. Commissioner Hejl called the meeting to order at 6:12 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Long with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Rose Hejl, Robert Long, and Kevin Vana. Attorney David Austgen requested the record to reflect that also present were Chief James Kveton, Attorney David Austgen, and Detective Corporal Steven Flores. Absent from this meeting were Commissioners Paul Haluska and Charles Sawyer, and Town Council Liaison Steven Hastings.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

April 24, 2017 Regular Meeting - Commissioner Long moved to approve the minutes from the April 24, 2017 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None).

CORRESPONDENCE / COMMUNICATIONS

There were no items of “Correspondence / Communications.”

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

April 30, 2017, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 15,915 miles and responded to 570 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 17 adult arrests with 31 charges being filed, and 1 juvenile arrest with 2 charges being filed. There were 298 traffic citations issued, along with 221 written warnings, for a total of 519 citations issued during the month of April 2017 by the officers of the St. John Police Department.

Chief Kveton advised there were zero vehicle thefts. There were other thefts totaling $11,578.00. There was no Recovered Property in the month of April 2017.

OLD BUSINESS

There were no matters of “Old Business.”

HUMAN RESOURCES

Human Resources – As discussed last month, Chief Kveton requested the Commission to authorize the start of a hiring process to establish an Eligibility List for Police Officer. This list would be a regular list and not a list for an emergency hire. Secondly, Chief Kveton requested the Commission’s authorization to hire an individual from the current Emergency Hire List; namely, Arthur T. Sandaker. Commissioner Long moved to authorize Chief Kveton to start the process to create an Eligibility List for Police Officer, and he moved to approve the hiring of the recommended individual from the latest Emergency Hire. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None).

Police and Fire Manpower Study by GovHR, Inc. – Chief Kveton stated this process is almost completed. There is a meeting scheduled for this coming Thursday with GovHR and the Town Council, so there should be more information available by next month.

NEW BUSINESS

Approval of Resolutions / General Orders – Commissioner Long moved to approve the following (Resolutions and) General Orders as follows: (Note: The Resolutions and General Orders are listed as they were on the Agenda for tonight’s meeting.

a. Resolution No. 101 / G.O. No. 4.13 – Employee Awards and Recognition;
c. Resolution No. 103 / G.O. No. 7.38 – School Crossing Guard;
d. Resolution No. 04 / G.O. No. 4.14 – Grievance Procedures;
e. Resolution No. 105 / G.O. No. 1.15 – Mutual Aid;
f. Resolution No. 106 / G.O. No. 2.23 – Electronic Communications, Devices / Distracted Driver;
g. Resolution No. 108 / G.O. No. 3.10 – Training Standard for SWAT;
h. Resolution No. 109 / G.O. No. 2.22 – Emergency Recall Procedures;
i. Resolution No. 110 / G.O. No. 4.05 – Off-Duty / Extra Duty Employment;
j. Resolution No. 113 / G.O. No. 5.08 – Collection of Crime Data;
k. Resolution No. 114 / G.O. No. 7.36 – Law Enforcement Animals / Police Canine (K-9);
l. Resolution No. 115 / G.O. No. 7.37 – School Resource Officer / Liaison;
m. Resolution No. 116 / G.O. No. 8.14 – Planning Special Events;
n. Resolution No. 117 / G.O. No. 7.09.6 – Computer Voice Stress Analyzer;
o. Resolution No. 118 / G. O. No. 4.11-4.12 – Disciplinary System;
p. Resolution No. 119 / G.O. No. 3.05-3.09 – Training Records, Mandated In-Service Training and Supervisor Training;
q. Resolution No. 120 / G.O. No. 1.14 – Mission, Values and Philosophy;
ii. Resolution No. 139 / G.O. No. 8.13 – Active Shooter;
jj. Resolution No. 140 / G.O. No. 4.16.18 – Job Description: Police Chaplain;
kk. Resolution No. 141 / G.O. No. 7.28.1 – Mobile Audio/Video Recording;
ll. Resolution No. 142 / G.O. No. 12.01-12.11 – Property and Evidence Management; and
mm. Resolution No. 143 / G.O. No. 5.01-5.03 & 5.05 – Privacy and Security of Records.

With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None).

CHIEF’S COMMENTS

Chief Kveton stated the St. John Police Department, with the assistance of Attorney David Austgen, put together a not-for-profit organization called the “St. John Police Association.” The Association had its first meeting wherein they elected a Board of Directors. Officer Ronald Olson is the President, Officer David Wortsman is the Treasurer, and Officer Shane Adams is the Secretary. With the help of Attorney Austgen, the proper paperwork was filed with the State of Indiana creating the organization. Mr. Donald Bates, a local accountant, assisted the Association with getting all the not-for-profit filings completed, as well as assisting with other necessary matters. The Association has had a second meeting, which was very successful. Chief Kveton stated they are looking forward to moving ahead with the Association.

Chief Kveton stated over the last several months, there have been some very good investigations conducted by our officers, which resulted in recognition for our officers. Corporal Timothy Gardenhire, Officer Nicholas Stamate, Officer Luke Schreiber and Officer Jacob Patzschke received Distinguished Service Awards / Unit Citations for their quick response and diligent work regarding the apprehension of three (3) juveniles who tried to flee from our officers.

Officer Paige Hickenbottom and Officer Jacob Patzschke received Distinguished Service Awards for their efforts in a Home Invasion, which turned out to be an individual who was allowed into the house by the juvenile female who lived at the residence.

Officer Ronald Olson received a Meritorious Service Award when he put his own safety in danger’s way in order to protect the life and property of one of our citizens on January 24, 2017 during a house fire.

Chief Kveton stated he would like to praise these officers for their wonderful service to our community and for the recognition they received. Commissioner Hejl stated they are proud of all these officers, and this news was very good to hear.

ANY AND ALL

Attorney Austgen stated he would like to suggest that the Minutes of this Public Meeting reflect the Resolutions, that were collectively read and approved by the Commission’s unanimous public meeting action, be referenced as individually approved so that the record is very clear on that process.

Attorney Austgen congratulated Detective Corporal Steven Flores on his upcoming marriage.

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no subjects in the audience who made a public comment.

MEETING SCHEDULE

The next Regular Meeting will be held on Monday, June 26, 2017. Work Study Sessions and/or Executive Sessions will be held only if they are deemed necessary. All Executive Sessions will be advertised pursuant to law.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Long moved for adjournment. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None). The meeting adjourned at 6:20 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

06-26-2017 Police Commission

June 26, 2017 Police Commission Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

The June 2017 Regular Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Monday, June 26, 2017, at 6:00 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law. Commissioner Hejl called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Sawyer with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Rose Hejl, Paul Haluska, and Charles Sawyer. Also present was Chief James Kveton. Absent from this meeting were Commissioners Robert Long and Kevin Vana, and Town Council Liaison Steven Hastings. No legal representation was present at this meeting.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

May 22, 2017 Regular Meeting - Commissioner Haluska moved to approve the minutes from the May 22, 2017 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motion carried unanimously (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None).

CORRESPONDENCE / COMMUNICATIONS

Chief Kveton advised he had received a couple of letters this month, which were complimentary letters on officers and responses to different calls. Chief Kveton advised he e-mailed the letters to the Commission members at the time of their receipt.

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

Chief Kveton read the monthly report for May 2017. Chief Kveton stated from May 1, 2017 through May 31, 2017, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 18,319 miles and responded to 621 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 22 adult arrests with 50 charges being filed, and 3 juvenile arrests with 5 charges being filed. There were 308 traffic citations issued, along with 198 written warnings, for a total of 506 citations issued during the month of May 2017 by the officers of the St. John Police Department.

Chief Kveton advised vehicle thefts totaled $9,000.00. There were other thefts totaling $6,200.00. Recovered Property totaled $9,000.00, which was the vehicle that had been reported stolen.

OLD BUSINESS

Approval of Resolutions / General Orders – Commissioner Haluska moved to table this matter until the next Regular Meeting of the Police Commission. With a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motioned carried (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None).

HUMAN RESOURCES

Police and Fire Manpower Study by GovHR, Inc. – Commissioner Hejl stated this was a repeat item from last month’s meeting, so they will move on to the next item.

NEW BUSINESS

Approval of Resolutions / General Orders – Commissioner Haluska moved to table this matter until the next Regular Meeting of the Police Commission. With a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motioned carried (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None).

CHIEF’S COMMENTS

Chief Kveton stated there have been a couple different crime pattern-type activities (taking wire), and there were also three (3) bobcats stolen in the last couple of months from construction sites. One bobcat was immediately recovered, and those offenders were arrested. However, the other two bobcats escaped our dragnet. Chief Kveton asked that members of the public keep an eye out for suspicious people. If they see anybody suspicious, they should please call immediately so that officers can respond.

ANY AND ALL

There were no items brought up under “Any and All.”

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no subjects in the audience who made a public comment.

MEETING SCHEDULE

The next Regular Meeting will be held on Monday, July 24, 2017. Work Study Sessions and/or Executive Sessions will be held only if they are deemed necessary. All Executive Sessions will be advertised pursuant to law.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Haluska moved for adjournment. With a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motion carried (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None). The meeting adjourned at 6:04 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

07-24-2017 Police Commission

July 27, 2017 Police Commission Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

The July 2017 Regular Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Monday, July 24, 2017, at 6:00 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law. Commissioner Hejl called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Sawyer with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Rose Hejl, Paul Haluska, and Charles Sawyer. Also present was Chief James Kveton. Absent from this meeting were Commissioners Robert Long and Kevin Vana, and Town Council Liaison Steven Hastings. No legal representation was present at this meeting.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

June 26 , 2017 Regular Meeting - Commissioner Haluska moved to approve the minutes from the May 22, 2017 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motion carried unanimously (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None).

CORRESPONDENCE / COMMUNICATIONS

None

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

Chief Kveton read the monthly report for June 2017. Chief Kveton stated from June 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 18,225 miles and responded to 644 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 21 adult arrests with 38 charges being filed, and 0 juvenile arrests with 0 charges being filed. There were 307 traffic citations issued, along with 183 written warnings, for a total of 490 citations issued during the month of June 2017 by the officers of the St. John Police Department.

Chief Kveton advised vehicle thefts totaled $87,000.00. There were other thefts totaling $7,365.00. Recovered Property totaled $8,600.00, which was the vehicle that had been reported stolen.

OLD BUSINESS

Approval of Resolutions / General Orders – Commissioner Haluska made a motion to approve resolutions 121, 122, 123,124, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, and 138. Second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motioned carried (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None). This will approve these orders:

Policy 4.16.11 - Job Description: Administrative Assistant
Policy 4.16.12 - Job Description: Records Clerk
Policy 4.16.13 - Job Description: Animal Control Officer
Policy 4.16.15 – Job Description: Detective
Policy 4.16 - Classifications and Job Description
Policy 4.16.1 - Job Description: Chief of Police
Policy 4.16.2 - Job Description: Assistant Chief of Police
Policy 4.16.3 - Job Description: Deputy Chief of Police
Policy 4.16.4 - Job Description: Captain
Policy 4.16.5 - Job description: Lieutenant
Policy 4.16.6 - Job Description: Sergeant
Policy 4.16.7 - Job Description: Corporal
Policy 4.16.8 - Job Description: Officer
Policy 4.16.9 - Job description: Assistant Information and Technology Director
Policy 4.16.10 - Job Description: Accreditation, Training and Community Outreach Mgr.

HUMAN RESOURCES

New Officer – Chief Kveton notified Officer Christopher Widen will be sworn-in on Thursday night at the Town Council Meeting at 7:00PM. There will be a pension board meeting on tomorrow night approving him to enter PERF. His background and all reports came back all clear.

NEW BUSINESS

Approval of Resolutions / General Orders – Commissioner Haluska made a motion to rescinding resolution 163 and 164, with a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motioned carried (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None). This will repeal these orders:

Policy 9.01.1 - Dispatcher Duties and Responsibilities
Policy 9.01.2 - Severe Weather Warning System

CHIEF’S COMMENTS

Chief Kveton stated that there was a citizen that approached him at the last council meeting with concern for speeding on Joliet St. I will be making this same report at the Council Meeting. We received a complaint a couple months ago regarding speeding on Joliet St. east of US41. We have spent a total of 36.25 hours of enforcement in that area, with 31 assigned cases, and 30 warnings. Year-to-date for traffic enforcement on Joliet St. resulted in 101 traffic citations with 90 for speeding, 100 warnings tickets with 81 for speeding.

Another citizen had concern for a “Quiet Zone” on the railroad through town; the Norfolk Southern and CSX railroad that are just east of the Town Hall and they cross just north of 93rd Ave. The citizen was under the misconception that if we asked the railroad to create a “Quiet Zone” in St. John, the railroad would pay for all the infrastructure improvements that would be required through the Federal Railroad Administration. I did contact the Federal Railroad Administration in Washington D. C. and spoke with two representatives and our local Region 4 representative, and they affirmed that the information is completely incorrect. The Town of St. John would have to pay for all infrastructure improvements for any crossing where we would want to implement a “Quiet Zone”. The initial costs for a planning meeting alone is $6,000-$10,000 per railroad organization. The regional representative from the Federal Railroad Administration, Tammy Wagner, advised that a rural crossing in the middle of nowhere with gates, flashers, and bells would be a minimum of $200,000. With the crossings being so close to each other, and crossing each other, the software would increase that to $250,000-$500,000 per crossing. That would just be putting in gates, flashers, and bells and would not account for any other safety measures such as median barriers, or the purchasing of property to widen the crossings to allow median barriers. The estimated cost is in excess of $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 to the Town to implement a “Quiet Zone” not accounting annual costs by the railroad for maintaining the “Quiet Zone” crossing.

ANY AND ALL

There were no items brought up under “Any and All.”

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no subjects in the audience who made a public comment.

MEETING SCHEDULE

The next Regular Meeting will be held on Monday, August 28, 2017. Work Study Sessions and/or Executive Sessions will be held only if they are deemed necessary. All Executive Sessions will be advertised pursuant to law.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Haluska moved for adjournment. With a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motion carried (3-0; Ayes – 3 / Nays – None). The meeting adjourned at 6:08 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

08-28-2017 Police Commission Meeting Canceled
09-25-2017 Police Commission

September 25, 2017 Police Commission Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

The July 2017 Regular Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Monday, September 25, 2017, at 6:00 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law. Vice-Chairman Haluska called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Haluska with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Paul Haluska, Charles Sawyer, Robert Long, and Kevin Vana. Also present was Chief James Kveton. Absent from this meeting was Commissioner Rose Hejl and Town Council Liaison Steven Hastings. No legal representation was present at this meeting.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

July 24 , 2017 Regular Meeting - Commissioner Haluska moved to approve the minutes from the July 24, 2017 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (4-0; Ayes – 4 / Nays – None).

CORRESPONDENCE / COMMUNICATIONS

None

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

Chief Kveton read the monthly report for August 2017. Chief Kveton stated from August 1, 2017 through August 31, 2017, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 17,867 miles and responded to 588 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 21 adult arrests with 37 charges being filed, and 0 juvenile arrests with 0 charges being filed. There were 306 traffic citations issued, along with 200 written warnings, for a total of 506 citations issued during the month of August 2017 by the officers of the St. John Police Department.

Chief Kveton advised vehicle thefts totaled $105,000.00 which included two high end vehicles. There were other thefts totaling $11,136.00. Recovered Property totaled $105,350.00, which included the vehicles that were reported stolen.

OLD BUSINESS

None

HUMAN RESOURCES

Promotional Testing – Chief Kveton reported to the commission that we are currently in the process of a promotional exam. All the officers that have shown interest in taking the exam are currently studying. They have their books and doing diligent reading. We have scheduled the written exam for October 18th.

NEW BUSINESS

None

CHIEF’S COMMENTS

Traffic Study and Enforcement – Chief Kveton reported to the commission that we have purchased a pole mounted speed sign. It not only shows the speed of the vehicle, it does traffic counting, speed both directions, graphs, charts and additional information. We have had it mounted on Joliet Street and have been obtaining statistics for that street for the past month. One of the main things that we look at is the “85th percentile”, which is used to determine the proper posted speed on a roadway. Using the statistics from our speed sign, we found the 85th percentile for one direction to be 31 miles per hour one direction and 36 miles per hour the other direction, so we are on point with what the speed limit should be.

• Vehicles traveling westbound show 20,559 vehicles traveling less than 30 miles per hour; 29,500 were doing between 31 and 40 miles per hour; there were roughly 1,000 vehicles 41 to 50 miles per hour. 28 cars were between 51 and 60 miles per hour. Westbound is travailing away from the sign and the statistics show it slightly faster with the 85th percentile showing 36 miles per hour.

• Eastbound traffic had 46,000 vehicles traveling under 30 miles per hour; 13,971 vehicles were between 31 and 41 miles per hour. It is not a strong indication that there is a problem there. This was from September 7th to September 29th.

T

here was a note on social media concerning manpower delegation with regards to traffic citation and traffic enforcement on Joliet St or other streets instead of Wicker Avenue. We did another study to look at the percentage of traffic accidents to our citations. 51.7% of our citations are issued on Wicker Avenue, 62% of our accidents happen on Wicker Avenue, so we should actually be putting a little more effort there. On Joliet Street, .7% of our accidents occur on that street but our citations issued are 5%, so we are actually spending more time there based on the data.

The last report is the comparison from 2016 to 2017. In August of 2016, we had 137 warnings and 78 citations issued, in the same period of 2017 we had 169 warnings and 254 citations, which is a 225% increase. The officers are doing a great job and working very hard at traffic enforcement and reducing traffic crashes.

ANY AND ALL

There were no items brought up under “Any and All.”

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no subjects in the audience who made a public comment.

MEETING SCHEDULE

The next Regular Meeting will be held on Monday, November 27, 2017. Work Study Sessions and/or Executive Sessions will be held only if they are deemed necessary. All Executive Sessions will be advertised pursuant to law.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Haluska moved for adjournment. With a second by Commissioner Long, the motion carried (4-0; Ayes – 4 / Nays – None). The meeting adjourned at 6:09 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

10-23-2017 Police Commission

October 23, 2017 Police Commission Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

The October 2017 Regular Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Monday, October 23, 2017, at 6:00 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law. Chairman Hejl called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Sawyer with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Paul Haluska, Charles Sawyer, Rose Hejl, and Kevin Vana. Absent from this meeting was Commissioner Robert Long and Chief James Kveton. Deputy Chief Demeter was present in Chief Kveton’s absence.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

September 25 , 2017 Regular Meeting - Commissioner Haluska moved to approve the minutes from the September 25, 2017 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Vana, the motion carried unanimously (4-0; Ayes – 4 / Nays – None).

CORRESPONDENCE / COMMUNICATIONS

Commissioner Hejl asked if anyone present had communications for the Commission. Chairman Hejl noted for the record that there were none.

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

Deputy Chief David Demeter read the monthly report for September 2017. Deputy Chief Demeter stated from September 1, 2017 through September 30, 2017, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 15,312 miles and responded to 500 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 16 arrests with 33 charges being filed. There were 338 traffic citations issued, along with 238 written warnings, for a total of 576 citations issued during the month of September 2017 by the officers of the St. John Police Department.

Deputy Chief Demeter advised vehicle thefts totaled $8,550.00. There were other thefts totaling $8,851.00. Recovered Property totaled $100.00.

OLD BUSINESS

Chairman Hejl advised there was no Old Business before the Commission this evening.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Promotional Testing – Commissioner Haluska reported to the commission that they recommended to have the permanent rank of Sergeant David Demeter promoted to permanent rank of Lieutenant David Demeter, who is also currently Deputy Chief Demeter. Chairman. Charman Hejl asked for a second on the recommendation. Motion seconded by Commissioner Sawyer. Motion carried four (4) Ayes and zero (0) Nays. Chairman Hejl and the other members present congratulated Deputy Chief Demeter.

NEW BUSINESS

Chairman Hejl advised the next agenda item is new business, which consists of five (5) resolutions before the board. Commissioner Haluska asked if they can to address all at once. Chairman Hejl advised that they should.

A. Resolution No. 102 / General Order No. 6.01 – 6.11 – Response to Resistance
B. Resolution No. 125 / General Order No. 9.01 – 9.08 – Radio and Emergency Communications.
C. Resolution No. 148 / General Order No. 7.25.2 – Bicycle Patrol
D. Resolution No. 150 / General Order No. 7.28.2 – Police Escorts
E. Resolution No. 152 / General Order No. 7.25 – Special Use Equipment

Commissioner Haluska made a motion to approve Resolution Numbers 102, 125, 148, 150 and 152 with their equivalent General Orders. Motion seconded by Commissioner Vana. Motion carried four (4) Ayes and zero (0) Nays.

ANY AND ALL

There were no items brought up under “Any and All.”

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no subjects in the audience who made a public comment.

MEETING SCHEDULE

The next Regular Meeting will be held on Monday, November 27, 2017. Work Study Sessions and/or Executive Sessions will be held only if they are deemed necessary. All Executive Sessions will be advertised pursuant to law.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Sawyer moved for adjournment. Chairman Hejl asked for verbal vote, motion carried Motion carried four (4) Ayes and zero (0) Nays. The meeting adjourned at 6:04 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

11-27-2017 Police Commission

November 27, 2017 Police Commission Meeting Minutes

COMMISSIONERS   POLICE CHIEF
Rose Hejl, Chairman Robert Long James A. Kveton
Paul Haluska, Vice-Chairman Kevin Vana  
Charles Sawyer, Secretary    

REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

The November 2017 Regular Meeting of the Board of Metropolitan Police Commissioners of the Town of St. John was held on Monday, November 27, 2017, at 6:00 P.M., as advertised, pursuant to law. Commissioner Charles Sawyer called the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M., and then led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance. Roll call was taken by Commissioner Sawyer with the following members of the Police Commission being present; namely, Paul Haluska, Charles Sawyer, Rose Hejl, Robert Long and Kevin Vana. Also present was Police Chief James Kveton and Attorney Dave Austgen.

APPROVAL OF PREVIOUS MONTH’S MINUTES

October 23 , 2017 Regular Meeting - Commissioner Haluska moved to approve the minutes from the October 23, 2017 Regular Meeting as written. With a second by Commissioner Sawyer, the motion carried unanimously (5 Ayes – 0 Nays).

CORRESPONDENCE / COMMUNICATIONS

Commissioner Hejl asked if anyone present had communications for the Commission. Chairman Hejl noted for the record that there were none.

CHIEF’S MONTHLY REPORT

Chief James Kveton read the monthly report for October 2017. Chief Kveton stated from October 1, 2017 through October 31, 2017, the members of the St. John Police Department logged 19,943 miles and responded to 567 law incidents. The investigation of these incidents led to 18 arrests with 34 charges being filed. There were 319 traffic citations issued, along with 230 written warnings, for a total of 549 citations issued during the month of October 2017 by the officers of the St. John Police Department.

Chief Kveton advised there were zero vehicle thefts. There were other thefts totaling $2,847.00. There was no property recovered for the month of October 2017.

OLD BUSINESS

Chairman Hejl advised there was no Old Business before the Commission this evening.

HUMAN RESOURCES

Promotional Testing – Commissioner Hejl reported that they have assembled and created our eligibility lists for Sergeant and for Corporal; and entertained a motion from the commissioners. Commissioner Haluska make a motion to accept the list as presented. Motion seconded by Commissioner Sawyer. Motion carried five (5) Ayes and zero (0) Nays.

Starting with our Sergeant’s Eligibility List (in order):

1. Steven Flores
2. Jay Dahlin
3. Michael Moffitt

Corporal’s Eligibility List:

1. Dave Rybicki
2. Luke Lukasik
3. Ronald Olson
4. David Wortsman
5. Lucas Zuzich
6. Shane Adams

Chairman Hejl extended her congratulations to the aforementioned officers.

Chief James Kveton asked Chairman Hejl to make another motion, that being a vacant “Corporal’s” position, and requested the immediate promotion of Officer Dave Rybicki. Commissioner Haluska made a motion to make the immediate promotion of Officer Dave Rybicki to the rank of Corporal. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Long. Motion carried 5 Ayes / 0 Nays. Chairman Hejl congratulated Corporal Rybicki.

Chief James Kveton presented Officer Dave Rybicki with his new corporal’s badge, stating that a new one with the correct number will be given to him shortly. (Applause and congratulations from the commission and the audience).

Chief Kveton advised that another note related to promotions, is that he has provided the Commissioners with a proposed Organizational Chart, based on the human resources study that was done on the St. John Police Department. Chief Kveton directed their attention to structural changes that he believes will benefit the police department for the year 2018.

Chief Kveton advised that as they move forward into 2018, he proposes other promotions and adjustments to the organizational chart. Attorney Austgen asked the chief to check if the organizational chart requires a SOP, and if not that may it should be.

NEW BUSINESS

Chairman Hejl advised the first item under new business is towing request proposals. Attorney Austgen advised that from a sealed envelope provided by Kubiak Service, in which Mr. Kubiak is present. The proposal includes the required insurance certificate, and appears that the form is completed in its entirety, therefore the commission has a proposal from Kubiak Service to be evaluated.

Attorney Austgen advised the second sealed envelope provides another proposal from Stan’s Towing. The proposal appears to be complete, other than an insurance certificate or a signatory. However, he feels that you have two (2) proposals here this evening and inquired as to what sort of action Chief Kveton is looking for this evening.

Chief Kveton stated that based on the two (2) proposals that he is requesting that the Commission make a recommendation, and he believes that it is correct for the commission to accept these two (2) proposals. Commissioner Long advised they have both done very well.

Chief Kveton stated that what we have done this time, is to layout specific guidelines that the towing firms will be required to follow. This would ensure that if any incidents were to occur, where certain expectations are not followed, there will be a manner in place in which to hold them accountable, or at least, notify them that they must follow the guidelines. Chief Kveton advised that both firms have the required guidelines and made their proposals based on those guidelines, so there should be no questions in regards to those guidelines.

Commissioner Long made a motion to approve both vendors. Motion seconded by Commissioner Haluska. Motion carried 5 Ayes – 0 Nays.

Chief Kveton asked Attorney Austgen if he should put on the record the organizations that the RFP’s were sent to. Attorney Austgen advised yes, and the record should reflect that there was full transparency in soliciting proposals for this new upcoming business year.

Chief Kveton noted that request for proposals were sent out approximately two (2) weeks ago, and sent to Kubiaks Service, Stan’s Towing, St. John Auto, Midnight Blue and Emerald. They were requested to be returned to me by 8:00 a.m. (CST) this morning, October 27, 2017. Those were the two that I received by that deadline.

Chairman Hejl advised the next agenda item is new business, which consists of five (5) resolutions before the board.

A. Resolution No. 139 / General Order No. 8.13 – Active Shooter.

B. Resolution No. 147 / General Order No. 7.09.4 – Vehicle Lockouts.

C. Resolution No. 149 / General Order No. 7.25.5 – Mobile Data Terminals.

D. Resolution No. 166 / General Order No. 7.39 – Vehicle Towing

E. Resolution No. 165 / General Order No. 7.24 – Vehicle Operation and Maintenance.

Commissioner Haluska made a motion to approve Resolution Numbers 139, 147, 149, 166, and 165. Attorney Austgen advised that he spoke with Chief Kveton on Resolution No. 165 and G.O. regarding Vehicle Operation and Maintenance, and there is language that needs to be gone over. It was discussed amongst the members to approve the four (4) resolutions and make a separate motion on the fifth.

Commissioner Haluska stated he would re-state the motion to approve Resolution Number 139, 147, 149 and 166, as written; and Resolution Number 165 after amendments have been made. Motion seconded by Commissioner Long. Motion carried five (5) Ayes and zero (0) Nays.

ANY AND ALL

Chief Kveton advised that the Law Enforcement Academy is holding our Agility Test on Saturday, December 16th, and he was aware that some of the Commissioners wanted to stop by and observe. Chief Kveton advised that if they wanted to stop by that it starts at 8:00 a.m. at the Hobart academy location.

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no subjects in the audience who made a public comment.

MEETING SCHEDULE

Chief Kveton is not aware of any other business that the commission would wish to conduct in December. Chairman Hejl advised the next meeting will be Monday, January 22, 2018. Work Study Sessions and/or Executive Sessions will be announced if necessary. All Executive Sessions will be advertised pursuant to law.

ADJOURNMENT

Commissioner Haluska moved for adjournment. Commissioner Long seconded motion. Motion carried four (5) Ayes and zero (0) Nays. The meeting adjourned at 6:16 P.M.

Town of St. John, Lake County
Indiana, Board of Metropolitan
Police Commissioners

______________________________
Charles Sawyer, Secretary

ATTEST:

________________________________
Joan M. Gorcos, Recording Secretary

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