09/11/1993 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Police interviews - Terrill L. Hutson Page 13 Council Member Bergeson asked Mr. Hutson how he would proceed if an officer was accused of serious misconduct. Mr. Hutson said he would consider the officer's bill of rights, he would notify the officer that an investigation is being conducted. He would look at the problem and determine if it is a pattern or behavior and if he would need to deal with discipline that is progressive from the first report to termination, if it comes to that. He is willing to confront problems, but will be very sure to get the facts. Council Member Bergeson asked Mr. Hutson what would be one of the first things he would do in building trust with the officers. Mr. Hutson said building trust usually takes a year. He would come in the first three months and observe, he would take each officer and deal with them in the manner of the police code of ethics. He would be honest with them - make no promises, use no lies. He would do what is best for the community and is certain the officers would do quality work. He would not shock them with major change but would talk with them. He would ride a shift with them. Leadership is to know your people and their capabilities. He would give them some ownership in what they do - he would identify the officers and their skills, then they would produce. He gave examples of the officers in Redwood Falls that he has given leadership tasks to, relating to their interests and skills. Council Member Bergeson told Mr. Hutson that the City of Lino Lakes has high taxes and the budget is tight, and asked how he would deal with limited resources. Mr. Hutson said he would set a foundation of basic service. 75% of the budget goes for salaries and the rest must be used creatively. Foundation grants and money from companies could be sought that could change budget lines. He would set priorities and follow through with the budget. There is the possibility to use creative answers like flex hours to solve budget concerns. Council Member Bergeson assumed that Mr. Hutson had done his homework on the LLPD and asked why he felt he would be a good fit for Lino Lakes. Mr. Hutson said he knew his limitations and qualifications. The fit and growth is good, he understands the problems of a growing community. He has no problem with discipline and enjoys being with good police officers and feels his belief in the code of ethics would rub off on the officers. 1 1 1