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1..L a7 Page 9 City Council Minutes April 27, 1994 Councilmember Hustad expressed several thoughts that had occurred to him. In reading the RFP's, St. Anthony provided the most impressive responses; however, he came into this meeting with an open mind. Chief Finney was indeed impressive, and if he was going to be one of Falcon Heights' officers, he'd have no hesitation about contracting with St. Paul. However, he has concerns about the difference in the two cities' sizes and whether they would be a good fit together. Hustad stressed that it is important that the two cities work closely together on common causes, but he also felt that St. Paul has a different character than Falcon Heights. Residents would have confidence in the Ramsey County force because of their past good history. Their long response time is bothersome to him though, and their resources available may be overkill for a small residential community. In addition, Ramsey County's cost for 24 hour patrol is too high and the 16 hour option doesn't provided the service level needed. Hustad noted that he appreciated St. Paul's and Ramsey County's responses to the gender/ethnicity question and that it is important to him that the selected police force represent ail segments of society. Councilmember Gibson Talbot stated that she came into the meeting most impressed with St. Paul's and St. Anthony's proposals. All four forces gave very professional presentations. However, St. Anthony's proposal stands out above the rest because: 1) they have a long history of Community Oriented Policing; 2} their past partnerships within their own community; and 3) their high focus on youth and on crime prevention. Mayor Baldwin stated that Falcon Heights would be well served by any of the forces represented. However, the police contractor selected should say something about the future direction of a city. Mayor Baldwin stated that his instincts are to go with the City of 5t. Paul, since Falcon Heights and St. Paul share so many common concerns and because of St. Paul's strong commitment to gender and ethnic diversity. However, the people of Falcon Heights first and foremost want police visibility and fast response to complaints. Mayor Baldwin commented that the City of St. Anthony appears more equipped to meet these needs than does St. Paul. Falcon Heights is more likely to become a crucial part of St. Anthony's organization and future than it would be in St. Paul. After further general discussion, the motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Jacobs requested that as a part of the contract negotiations, an insistence upon gender and ethnic diversity and upon the Falcon Heights' contribution to the selection process of its officers be included.