09-10-84 Safety Comm Minutes4:00 P. M. September 10, 1984
SAFETY COMMITTEE
The committee met in the Conference Room at City Hall. Present were Chairman Schindler,
members Saverud and Grainger, Councilman Manning, Police Chief Stefanie, Roger Hopkins,
DIL, Patty Lambert of School District 45 and Laurel Alexander, owner of Taco Johns.
Bethlehem Lutheran Church Sign
Ms Lambert was advised that the committee, given power to act, had elected to use a
"loading zone" rather than a "handicapped" sign in front of the church. It will be a
portable sign, displayed from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. Monday through Friday. Signs
will be provided by the Police Department, mounting provided by School District #5.
Pat Lee will be contacted when they are ready, probably by week's end.
Main Street - Youth Problems
Ms Alexander stated that representatives of the Outlaw Inn and Rosauers were unable to
attend this meeting but her purpose was to make officials aware that our community has
a real problem with teenagers. A native of Kalispell, Ms Alezander sayssheknows
about 80% of the kids and there is an element of young people not only rebelling
against authority, but they have become very violent. Fights are resulting in broken
bones, concussions, etc. that are not being reported. She feels there is a definite
problem up and down Main Street, people fear going out at night and two employees have
quit because of the violence. Taco .John's is dealing with the problem by closing doors
at 12:00, then using the drive -through, by letting problem patrons know that they are
not welcome there and by calling parents when problems occur.
All agreed that a traffic problem exists. When asked about a specific enforcement
program, Chief Stefanie stated that it would have to be budgeted for -around $6,000.00-
40 four officers would be needed and it would take months to have any significant impact.
This might simply move the problem to another location.
Discussion of the school enforcing rules more, the question of the community supporting
a very long term, very detailed enforcement program. Chief Stefanic commented that
the problem at the Outlaw Inn has improved since last spring, with their addition of
security personnel. He stated that the county -wide DUI program should be operational
within a monthorso. It was felt that DUI's be dealt with more aggressively.
C. Schindler suggested that we make our willingness known to meet teenagers half -way.
The possibility of a school assembly approach was discussed.
Other problems mentioned were those of alcohol and drugs, offensive language, and the
increase of property destruction. It was suggested that police be more obvious on
weekend nights. Chief Stefanic explained the shift schedule and stated that we should
have a 20 man force on those nights. We cannot afford that and have to accept it.
The committee agreed to take the facts under advisement and see what can be done.
Meeting adjourned at 5:00 P.M.
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