Among the audit’s recommendations is that the department be restructured and resources used more efficiently.According to SPPD Chief Bob Gonzales, although he disagrees with a number of the recommendations, beefing up funding is a top priority, including the approximately $500,000 annually for seven new officers.One recommendation that suggests eliminating police oversight of child exchanges between parents cannot be implemented as it is court ordered, Chief Gonzales said.He also objected to the audit recommendation that the two police commander positions be exchanged for an assistant chief and business manager, noting that the department had such an administrative system in the past.Chief Gonzales also had dismissed the recommendation to disband the K-9 program, noting that the dogs have been funded from outside the department and that ongoing maintenance is only about $4,000 annually.
SPPD audit implementation plan focus of special Council meeting
March 26, 2004
Santa Paula City Council
A special City Council meeting will be held to learn the implementation plan for the long list of recommendations in the Santa Paula Police Department Management Audit.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesA special City Council meeting will be held to learn the implementation plan for the long list of recommendations in the Santa Paula Police Department Management Audit.The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers, 970 E. Ventura St. and broadcast live on cable Channel 10.The wide-ranging audit of the department was released in late January.The 70-page audit, prepared by management consultant Arroyo Associates, contained 39 recommendations including that the City Council work with the police department to define expectations and develop a focused mission. The audit also recommended the development of a streamlined work plan, sharpening service delivery and filling all budgeted but unfilled positions as well as hiring seven more sworn officers.The report summary also noted that the department should also consider “institutionalizing community and problem orientated policing into routine operations.”Although public satisfaction with the department ranked high, criticisms included response to calls deemed minor, focusing more on timely evaluations and creating a discipline policy.
