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CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM 4A STAFF ORIGINATOR: John Swenson, Public Safety Director MEETING DATE: December 11, 2017 TOPIC: Body Worn Camera Policy Public Hearing VOTE REQUIRED: No Vote Required INTRODUCTION Minnesota Statute 628.8473 requires the City Council conduct a public hearing during regular City Council Meeting for the implementation of a body camera system worn by police officers. BACKGROUND Police Division personnel have researched and tested camera systems that would be worn by officers while responding to calls for service, during police initiated interactions, and other relevant interactions with members of the public. This tool will enable police personnel to record police interactions with members of the public to: • further enhance the documenting of these interactions; • use the video footage for investigative purposes; • assist with any decisions related to prosecution; • assist with court proceedings; and • provide a resource in the handling of any civil litigation. During the 2016 Minnesota Legislative session, statute 626.8473 was adopted and requires that law enforcement agencies provide an opportunity for public comment related to police BWC implementation. This legislation also requires law enforcement agencies to have a written policy governing the use of police BWC. Attached to this staff report is MN Statute 628.8473 and the Lino Lakes Public Safety Department draft policy. As required by MN Statute 628.8473, the attached draft policy was posted on the Public Safety Department’s website seeking public comment from November 1, 2017 to November 30, 2017. Members of the public were requested to make any public comment via email. Staff received two emails with questions about the technology and possible use of cameras on police canines. Staff provided information to the residents and have not received any subsequent comments. During the regular Council Meeting on December 11, 2017, staff is requesting that a public hearing be conducted regarding the attached draft policy. This will provide members of the community yet another opportunity to bring forward any comments they may have on this policy. The public hearing is also a requirement of MN Statute 628.8473. At the conclusion of the public hearing on December 11, 2017, all requirements outlined in MN Statute 628.8473 will have been met.