Laserfiche WebLink
Councilmember Kuzma posed the possibility of an event that would require Captain Katers <br />being on the front line of the media. He asked if he would feel comfortable in that role, <br />especially under duress. <br />Captain Katers responded he will. He noted he took courses to challenge himself and to find <br />opportunities for public speaking. He said he is confident in public speaking. He said it is <br />important to craft the message and bring the attention back to the message throughout. He <br />pointed out that it is a very cooperative group in Anoka County, and depending on the situation, <br />public speaking could be delegated. He said this happened in the officer- involved shooting <br />incident and the Anoka County Sheriff handled the media. <br />Councilmember LeTourneau commented Captain Katers had referenced he would ask for more <br />officers, but would understand if the request was not granted. He asked how Captain Katers <br />might approach this challenge beyond asking. <br />Captain Katers answered he would look at reducing line items to help cover staffs pay. He said <br />his department has done their best to run very lean. This works in the short term, but it does take <br />a toll on employees. The final budget decision is the Council's decision. He added he would <br />present a case to the Council in critical thinking. He would provide the negatives and positives, <br />and explain why he would be advocating for this position. He said he will not be requesting <br />positions and items he does not need. He acknowledged it is a balancing act, and everything <br />comes at a cost. He said he trusts the Council to make the best decision with the information <br />they have. <br />Mayor Strommen asked what he sees as challenges in the next five to ten years. <br />Captain Katers stated the department is in the beginning stages with social media. He said <br />anytime we can engage our community more, it helps them help us. He said social media is an <br />area that will help engage the community and will expand. <br />15. Do you have any questions for us? <br />Captain Katers asked if there are any expectations of the new Chief of Police that <br />were not an expectation in the past. <br />Mayor Strommen commented the addition of posting lost and found dogs on the Facebook site <br />helps the community to see the Police Department in a positive light. She said this is an <br />expectation she would have. <br />Councilmember LeTourneau stated from a Councilmember role, he feels isolated at times. He <br />said he would like feedback on any issues that may be going on. <br />Councilmember Riley stated he would like the Police Chief to run the department the way it <br />should be run and not the way the Council thinks it should be, but to keep the Council informed. <br />City Council Work Session / October 7, 2014 <br />Page 7 of 10 <br />