MINUTES

OTTAWA-CARLETON POLICE SERVICES BOARD

CHAMPLAIN ROOM

26 JULY 1999

5:00 P.M.

 

 

PRESENT

Chair: Councillor H. Kreling

Vice Chair: Mr. G. Baskerville

Members: Ms. E. Buckingham, Councillor J. Legendre and Mr. J. McCombie

Regrets: Mr. D. Adam, Regional Chair B. Chiarelli

 

acknowledgement

Board Chair Kreling extended his congratulations, on behalf of the Ottawa-Carleton Police Services Board, to Deputy Chief Bevan for his dedication and commitment in successfully completing the French language training program and examination.

In addition, Chair Kreling referenced the historic significance of 5 July 1999 in that it represented the final transition for police service in the Ottawa-Carleton Region from the Ontario Provincial Police to the Ottawa-Carleton Regional Police Service. The Chair extended his thanks for the dedication and hard work of all involved to ensure a successful transition, mentioning in particular Chief Ford, Deputy Chief Mackie, and Board Vice Chair Baskerville.

 

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

That the Ottawa-Carleton Regional Police Services Board confirm the Minutes of the 28 June 1999 meeting.

CARRIED

 

 

PUBLIC DELEGATIONS

1. DELEGATION OF GUIDE DOG USERS

- Executive Director’s report dated 19 Jul 99

Chair Kreling introduced members of the delegation as follows: Mr. Terry Green,
Ms. Valerie Colicott, Mr. Alan Conway, Mr. Chris Stark, Mr. Ian Martin and Dr. Foohey.

Mr. Terry Green reviewed an incident that occurred on 10 July 1999 in which he and his guide dog were not permitted to enter a store in Ottawa. Mr. Green believed the store owner’s action represented discrimination against himself as a blind person and his guide dog.

Mr. Green explained he attempted to correct the problem by contacting the Ottawa-Carleton Police Service and requested an officer to attend and assist in explaining to the store owner that a blind person with a certified guide dog was permitted into public facilities. Mr. Green referenced an Attorney General Identification Card that clearly states it is illegal to deny admission to a blind person solely for the reason he is accommodated by a guide dog. The delegation expressed concern that the attending officer did not support his position, but told him he could face trespassing charges if he re-entered the store. In closing, Mr. Green believed a process should be in place whereby if an officer is not familiar with the legislation, a detail report is taken and the matter proceeds to be investigated for resolution. However, the speaker pointed out this legislation was clear and should be enforced. Mr. Green hoped steps would be taken to ensure a similar incident does not occur in the future.

Mr. Alan Conway introduced himself as a Hull resident, but stated he spent a great deal of time traveling in Ottawa with his job as an interpreter for the Government of Canada. Mr. Conway pointed out that in all other Provinces, whether the blind person was a resident of the Province or not, the legislation was upheld. Mr. Conway expressed concern that the Police Service dealt with the matter on a selective basis and did not support the legislation. He indicated this decision and incident would effect all guide dog users across Canada.

Ms. Valerie Colicott, as a guide dog user, stated the incident illustrates that she would not be able to count on the support of the Police Service should she encounter similar problems. Ms. Colicott acknowledged an officer may not be familiar with all legislation, however, believed it was unacceptable for the Service to decide which laws were enforced. She noted Mr. Green had provided the legislation to the attending officer. Ms. Colicott suggested steps should have been taken regarding clarification, and charges laid against the store owner.

Ms. Colicott reported she was on the Women’s Action Centre Against Violence Board of Directors. In addition, she has been the Co-ordinator of the Women with Disabilities Training Team. She believed there was inadequate training available for the public and police officers. In addition, she stated the importance that officers be aware of certain techniques such as identifying themselves upon approaching a blind person and explaining their role.

Ms. Colicott referenced a similar 1996 incident in Kanata in which access was denied and the OPP did not enforce the Blind Persons Rights Act of Ontario. She reported within a few days of that incident, a press release was issued by the Commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police and the City of Kanata stating that indeed the Act would be enforced and charges were warranted. As a result of Mr. Green’s incident, Ms. Colicott stated the confidence of blind persons had been shaken and faith that their rights would be upheld needed to be restored.

Mr. Chris Stark, introduced himself as Chair of the Regional Audible Pedestrian Signals Advisory Committee. Mr. Stark suggested the incident may have been resolved if the store owner called police and requested clarification on the legislation. With respect to guide dogs, Mr. Stark stated they were highly trained animals that performed their work with professionalism.

Mr. Stark referenced a recent visit to Vancouver and the excellent attitude held by the motorists and public to assist blind persons. He stated this assistance was required when a blind person was attempting to live in the community. Mr. Stark emphasized the importance for the Police Service to be available and to understand the dilemmas faced by blind persons. The speaker requested the need for the Police Service to re-examine their training, and acknowledge a blind person’s entitlement to customer service and to live independently with confidence and dignity. Mr. Stark pointed out Vancouver was an excellent model in that it had over 600 audible traffic signals, compared to Ottawa-Carleton which has very few. He requested the public, Board and Police Service to help visually impaired people to enjoy the benefits of the community.

Chair Kreling thanked the delegation for their presentation. The Chair reported that with respect to the July 10th incident, two investigations had been initiated and were ongoing. Firstly, an investigation by the Professional Standards Branch on the conduct of the officer, and secondly, an investigation into the contravention of the Blind Persons Rights Act involving the store owner.

Member Legendre asked to view the Identification Cards, which were then circulated amongst the Board members.

Mr. Green referenced the investigations and stated charges had been laid on July 18th against the store owner with regard to the Blind Persons Rights Act, and the issue was presently before the court system. However, Mr. Green stated the point was that charges should have been laid on July 10th, noting the owner was not interested in seeing the legislation and the officer was not successful when he told the owner the guide dog should have access to the store.

With respect to the investigation by Professional Standards on the conduct of the police officer, Deputy Chief Bevan stated he recently received a draft copy of the report from the Professional Standards Branch. However, the Deputy Chief explained there were outstanding questions and he was not yet in a position to comment. Deputy Chief Bevan anticipated the investigation would be resolved in the near future and confirmed Mr. Green would be the first to receive a copy of the report as soon as it was available.

Deputy Chief Bevan stated it was clear from the complaint and in listening to the delegation, that the Police Service needed to pursue further education and training for their officers. The Deputy Chief added the correct process, when a responding officer was not aware of the legislation, was to file a report requiring further investigation.

The Deputy Chief stated the incident was unfortunate and steps would be taken to ensure the Blind Persons Rights Act was enforced in the Region.

With respect to the July 10th incident, Deputy Chief Bevan clarified the store owner, after conversations with the officer, did serve Mr. Green. He assured the delegation the Police Service was sensitive to the issues surrounding visually impaired persons. Deputy Chief Bevan explained the communications centre has technology available to allow for communications with blind persons. In addition, he reviewed volunteer programs involving officers and visually impaired youth and children. Deputy Chief Bevan extended his appreciation to Mr. Green for drawing the issue to their attention and confirmed that actions would be taken.

Deputy Chief Mackie reviewed the Police Service’s commitment to be inclusive and to work with all members of the community. He stated the incident provided the opportunity for the Service and community to work together, address issues around conflict resolution and ensure all members of the community were served equally.

In response to a question from Member Buckingham regarding sensitization training available in dealing with various disabilities, Chief Ford explained a considerable amount of training was provided. The Chief reviewed the communication, participation and training with organizations such as those that address violence against women, hearing impaired associations, and mental health nurses from the Royal Ottawa Hospital. Chief Ford stated the training was ongoing for front line officers and believed it represented approximately six 10 hour training days per year for all regular, routine training requirements. Member Buckingham stated there were many issues in which officers required ongoing sensitivity training and regular reminders. Member Buckingham concurred with earlier comments that the incident was unfortunate and was pleased necessary action would be taken.

With respect to Deputy Chief Bevan’s statements, Mr. Green made the following comments. Firstly, he pointed out charges were laid eight days after the incident. Secondly, Mr. Green referenced the conduct of the officer during the incident, which he believed pointed to the need for training on such things as introduction when approaching a blind person, and explaining what was going on, keeping in mind the person was visually impaired. Mr. Green pointed out he did not realize it was the store owner that retrieved the bag of milk, as he thought it was the officer. Mr. Green stated he would be interested in knowing how many hours of training front line officers received over the last three years, specifically in relation to dealing with blind persons.

Mr. Stark reiterated the need to train officers and provide them with the skills to look beyond the disability and resolve the issue at hand. He stated if dispute resolution had worked correctly, the officer would have resolved the situation in a much shorter time frame. Mr. Stark expressed the need for public education around the fact that guide dogs were an integral part of the community.

Ms. Colicott reported that 90% of women with disabilities are abused in some manner at some time. She stated the first contact for assistance was the Police Service, thereby making it crucial that officers know how to interact in those sensitive situations. Ms. Colicott indicated in most instances, review of the identification card elevated the situation, however, in other cases the Police Service was required for support. She suggested appropriate actions involved public education, media releases and training.

Dr. Foohey suggested the need for officers to display common sense. He reviewed a personal incident that highlighted the assistance of the media in resolving an unfortunate occurrence.

In response to a question from Member Legendre, Mr. Green confirmed the store owner initially refused to read the Identification Card. However, the officer did review the card and determined stores were included in the definition of public spaces. Mr. Green pointed out the $5000 maximum fine was increased from $1000, as the lower fine was not a sufficient deterrent.

Member Legendre expressed concern that the officer had informed Mr. Green he could be charged with trespassing should he re-enter the store.

Member Legendre inquired if a member from the blind community would participate in the training. Chief Ford confirmed they would contact the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. Member Legendre thanked the delegation and Mr. Green for bringing the issues forward and providing the opportunity for change and education.

Mr. Green stated they were present primarily for the educational aspect. He suggested Chief Ford also approach the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, located in Manotick, or Ms. Colicott as a means of professional training. Mr. Conway stated he could provide additional information on French language training sessions for organizations involved in service industries.

Mr. Ian Martin stated the issues also involved their protection under the Highway Traffic Act and their right, should they step off a curb, to the right-of-way regardless of the light color. Mr. Martin requested the opportunity to meet with Deputy Chief Bevan or Mackie to review the issues and public education required.

Chair Kreling reiterated his appreciation for the delegation and awareness provided. He noted the commitment that the Police Service was aware and recognized the sensitivities of the various components of the community. Chair Kreling added discussions had been ongoing regarding training and the investigations, and confirmed Mr. Green would receive a copy of the Professional Standards report once complete. Mr. Green requested that the report be provided on a computer diskette.

 

That the Ottawa-Carleton Regional Police Services Board receive this report for information.

RECEIVED

 

ITEMS OF BUSINESS

2. PRESENTATION: DIFFERENTIAL POLICE RESPONSE (DPR)

- Verbal presentation by A/Staff Sergeant Brad Spriggs

A/Staff Sergeant Brad Spriggs explained Differential Police Response (DPR) was a key component of the new service delivery model. He reported a main objective was to free up officers’ time to allow them to enter into communication partnerships and problem solving initiatives. A copy of S/S Spriggs’ slide presentation is on file with the Executive Director. The presentation provided information on the following areas:

Upon conclusion of the presentation, S/S Spriggs entertained questions from Board members.

Member Legendre inquired what DUP represented. S/S Spriggs explained it represented duplicate calls.

Member Legendre commended the Staff Sergeant for an informative presentation. However, he requested that for future presentations, a hard copy of the slides be provided subsequent to the presentation. Member Legendre explained this assisted in noting questions and comments.

Vice Chair Baskerville referenced priority three calls that were deferred. He inquired how the calls were tracked and statistics gathered to ensure they were followed up and resolved. S/S Spriggs reviewed the process of receiving calls, determination of priority, and the follow up process.

Member Legendre stated this was an aspect of policing that may be controversial with the community. He explained as a member of Regional Council, he receives calls from residents that may be upset about a police response. Member Legendre inquired who the proper contact was for such calls. Inspector Ty Cameron, 9-1-1 Communications and the Information Centre, provided addition clarification on the rationale for questions asked during a call, and in determining the prioritization. Inspector Cameron stated he was the appropriate contact and could be reached at 236-1222, Ext. 5577.

That the Ottawa-Carleton Police Services Board receive this report for information.

RECEIVED

 

3. CONVERSION OF FOUND/SEIZED PROPERTY TO POLICE USE

- Director, Financial Services and Materiel Management, report dated 19 Jul 99

Member Legendre referenced Annex A to the report and requested further information on the Eskimo carving, eagle carving and two Asian pictures. Debra Fraser, Director, Financial Services and Material Management, explained Annex A outlined the Sections that had requested the items. She believed the rationale for the named items was to assist in furnishing an off-site location used for interviewing witnesses and victims in child abuse circumstances. It was felt they would help create a friendlier, softer environment.

With regard to the dremel power item, Deputy Chief Bevan explained it was a hand held grinding, engraving tool.

Member Legendre inquired if the various camera lenses would be used. Ms. Fraser explained the Auto Theft Section was required to take photographs of vehicles, and she believed they had looked at the lenses and determined they would be useful.

Member Buckingham referenced the policy on this subject approved by the Board in April 1998. She inquired what, if any, elements of this policy were not included in the Board’s Policy Manual approved in June. Member Buckingham wondered what was required in order to combine or provide reference to By-law 99-3 (Policy Manual) rather than the individual policy. She believed there was reference to the policy in By-law 99-3, however, did not think it included the reporting requirements to the Board.

Steve Kanellakos, Director-General, suggested the Board direct Vince Westwick, Legal Counsel, who is responsible for policy in the organization, to examine the documents and integrate the two. Member Buckingham requested direction in how the Board needed to change its policy to include the policy for the conversion of found/seized property and eliminate the need to reference the April 1998 policy. She suggested the reporting requirements could be outlined in the monitoring grid in the policy manual.

 

That the Ottawa-Carleton Police Services Board approve the conversion to police use of the property identified in Annex A.

CARRIED

 

4. APPOINTMENT OF SPECIAL CONSTABLES

- Director General’s report dated 23 Jun 99

That the Ottawa-Carleton Regional Police Services Board approve the appointments of Sheri Bisaillion and Shawn Patrick MacIsaac as Special Constables pursuant to Section 53 of the Police Services Act, in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the attached application forms.

CARRIED

 

5. IMPACT ON RECRUITMENT DUE TO IMPLEMENTATION OF

POLICE FOUNDATION PROGRAM AND RELATED INITIATIVES

- Report from Vice Chair G. Baskerville dated 14 Jul 99

That the Ottawa-Carleton Police Services Board request the Chief to prepare a report responding to questions about the impact on recruitment due to the implementation of the Police Foundation Program, and outlining how the new selection and training process is going to be implemented, and that the report be submitted to the Board in sufficient time so that any resulting Board direction and/or budgetary implications can be identified early this Autumn.

CARRIED

 

6. PROPOSAL TO USE STUDENTS TO ASSIST WITH WEBSITE

- Executive Director’s report dated 19 Jul 99

Member Legendre introduced the item by expressing his support for the idea raised in the Ottawa Citizen article. He felt the website should be designed from the point of view of the user, not of the organization. He suggested in many cases, a website is not interactive or designed in a receiving mode. Member Legendre pointed out that it was difficult to locate the Police Service Board on the current website and there was no mechanism for the complaint process or ability to file a complaint on line. He suggested the proposal outlined in the Citizen article would provide a means to update the quality of the website and increase its user friendliness and interactivity, without impacting on police resources.

Vice Chair Baskerville agreed innovative means to achieve results should be considered. However, he stated it raised many questions around implementation such as selection criteria, advertising, remuneration required, and liability concerns.

David Pepper, Director of Community Development, provided the following information regarding the police service website.

In response to an inquiry from Member Legendre on the use of students, Mr. Pepper confirmed students would be utilized at appropriate times, but not during the current phase. Mr. Pepper stressed the website development was incremental. In response to a further question from the Councillor, he confirmed the Board membership had been updated.

Member Buckingham referenced the pilot projects identified. She stated other organizations were using the web technology to enhance and deliver service. Member Buckingham inquired if consultation with other police services was taking place, taking into consideration similar applications would be used by the Police Services such as the ability to report a car theft on-line and accessing the required police file number for insurance purposes. In addition, Member Buckingham referenced province-wide linking involving a report being originated by the officer and electronically flowing through the system. Chief Ford explained they were studying the ability of on-line reporting, however, an individual was currently reviewing system security issues and the required firewalls prior to taking this step. The Chief stated once this phase was secured, it would allow them to implement the options available.

Steve Kanellakos reviewed a number of related province wide issues such as the integrated justice project. Mr. Kanellakos stated that in the future, the Ottawa-Carleton Service would be linked through technology with most other police services in the Province. He added the ability to file reports on line is in the early stages across the Province. He reviewed the issues around the technology, planning and security of allowing an officer to file reports directly from their vehicle. Mr. Kanellakos believed within the next 18 months they may be in a position to recommend how to electronically receive reports and provide service on line.

Chief Ford stated a budget provision may be required to purchase personal laptops for all officers to allow them to work at any location. Member Buckingham was encouraged to hear the organization was moving in this direction as it offered a range of service delivery possibilities. She acknowledged the security issues and the need to be extremely cautious, but hoped these issues would be resolved.

Member McCombie requested information on the use of students in the graffiti removal project referenced by Mr. Pepper. Mr. Pepper stated a copy of the press package had been provided to Board members in June. He reported that through the financial assistance of key public sector partners, it had been possible to obtain three students that were working to remove graffiti. He stated the project has been very successful, and he would provide an interim report to the Board. Mr. Pepper reviewed the extensive process involved and reported long term strategies were planned to allow for a community response in the future and an information pamphlet on the removal of graffiti.

Member McCombie referenced graffiti on bridge abutments in the Riverside Drive area. Mr. Pepper explained the limited resources required the project to be restricted to a specific geographic area. He reported the area began at King Edward Avenue, included the Byward Market, south to Sunnyside Avenue, and west to Holland Avenue. Mr. Pepper added two exceptions were Cumberland and Barrhaven, which had extreme cases of particular nuisance graffiti.

In response to a question from Member Legendre with respect to the website and the security of the police computer system, Mr. Pepper confirmed the site was completely removed from the police computer and would continue to be developed as a stand alone system at this time.

 

That the Ottawa-Carleton Regional Police Services Board receive this report for discussion.

RECEIVED

 

 

7. CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF POLICE BOARDS:

RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION AT ANNUAL MEETING

- Executive Director’s report dated 16 Jul 99

That the Ottawa-Carleton Police Services Board receive the Resolutions to be considered at the Canadian Association of Police Boards’ Annual Meeting on 21 August 1999 for information/discussion.

RECEIVED

 

8. CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF POLICE BOARDS:

DRAFT RESPONSE TO THE YOUTH CRIMINAL JUSTICE ACT

- Executive Director’s report dated 16 Jul 99

That the Ottawa-Carleton Police Services Board receive the Canadian Association of Police Boards’ draft response to the proposed Youth Criminal Justice Act for review and/or discussion.

RECEIVED

 

9. REGULAR REPORT FROM CHIEF OF POLICE

- Verbal report from Chief Ford

Chief Ford reported on the following items:

 

That the Ottawa-Carleton Regional Police Services Board receive this report for information.

RECEIVED

 

OTHER BUSINESS

Ontario Association of Police Services Boards (OAPSB)

Board of Directors Meeting - 22 July 1999

Vice Chair Baskerville reported he attended an OAPSB Board of Directors meeting on 22 July 1999 and provided the following information.

1. Second Hand Goods Legislation.

Detective Tom Dougalev of the OCRPS provided a presentation on the Second Hand Goods Legislation and submitted a report to the Directors. Vice Chair Baskerville commended Detective Dougalev on an excellent presentation.

The Vice Chair stated the OAPSB Board of Directors subsequently passed the following Motion:

 

WHEREAS property crime is the number one concern for the average citizen in Ontario;

The Pawnbrokers Act is outdated and unenforceable;

Municipal By-Laws vary widely in scope and are of limited effectiveness;

Reduction in the ease whereby stolen property can be converted to cash will have a positive impact on this type of crime; and

Property crime investigators, to be effective, need an automated system for collecting and integrating province wide transaction information from the second hands goods industry.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT a letter be sent to the Solicitor General of Ontario advising him of our concerns and that the OAPSB:

1. Encourages the Ontario Government to develop and enact provincial legislation that will regulate the second hands goods industry and to also amend the Pawnbrokers Act of Ontario.

2. Requests the provincial government to initiate action for the implementation of an automated data collection system to be used for the transfer of information, gathered in the second hand and pawn industries, to police crime investigative units.

3. Will, within its resources, provide support to these activities.

Vice Chair Baskerville hoped this Motion would result in some action taken by the Provincial Government.

 

2. Adequacy Standards - Phase Two Sample Guidelines.

Vice Chair Baskerville reported the "Guidelines - Phase Two - Adequacy Standards", dated 9 July, were received by the OAPSB from the Assistant Deputy Minister of the Policing Services Division. Copies were provided to the Board members and Police Executive.

Vice Chair Baskerville explained comments were to be provided to the Assistant Deputy Minister by 20 August 1999. He added the OAPSB is requesting that Boards submit their comments prior to 20 August to allow the opportunity to make one consolidated submission. The Vice Chair hoped comments from Chief Ford could also be incorporated.

Vice Chair Baskerville briefly provided his comments on the document. He requested Board members to forward their comments to the Executive Director so they could be reviewed by members of the Policy Committee prior to submission to the OAPSB.

 

CONSIDERATION OF MOTION TO MOVE IN CAMERA

That the Ottawa-Carleton Regional Police Services Board adjourn the public portion of its meeting to move In Camera to discuss Confidential Items 1 and 2 pertaining to personnel and financial matters respectively, in accordance with Section 35(4)(b) of the Police Services Act.

CARRIED

 

ADJOURNMENT

The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

____________________________ _____________________________

W. Fedec H. Kreling

Executive Director Chair