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' 1 Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes October 17, 1995 Page 2 1 VI. MISCELLANEOUS. 2 A. Police Chief Engstrom's Report/Comments. 3 Chief Engstrom indicated perhaps the Commission could ask questions in regard to his 4 department. In this way, he would be better able to provide informaiton more pertinent for the 5 updated Comprenehsive Plan. 6 Chief Engstrom indicated his main concern for St. Anthony in regard to the Comprehensive Plan, 7 is that the rental stock not increase any further. He noted apartment complexes are perhaps the 8 hardest place to police. 9 Chair Bergstrom indicated the Commission has had an opportunity to review the Fire Chief s 10 report, it deals with the capacity of the Fire Department. He questioned Chief Engstrom in 11 regard to the capacity of the Police Department. Chief Engstrom indicated the department 12 receives between 6,000 and 7,000 calls annually. This amount is considerably lower than in the 13 1980's when the calls were ranging from 13,000 to 14,000 calls annually. 14 Chief Engstrom was confident that current resources would be available to handle a significant 15 increase, although they would not want the calls to increase. 16 Chief Engstrom indicated the reduced number in calls is reflective of various conditions, such as: 17 general crime trends,crime prevention programs and a reduction in rental units in the city. 18 The Chief also indicated St. Anthony is a close community, and neighbors watch out for 19 neighbors. He noted the officers work very hard,but also have help from the cooperation of 20 residents and that tends to enhance and continue the "closeness" of the community. 21 Chief Engstrom indicated that workable housing codes would help officers to enforce codes and 22 ordinances to improve and maintain the housing stock. 23 Commissioner Faust inquired if the Police Chief had seen any change in regard to crime near 24 Apache Plaza. The Chief indicated the main problem that is occurring is the open building that 25 kids and vagrants get into, but there is not a serious problem. 26 Chief Engstrom indicated in reference to maintaining properties, usually rental properties are a 27 main concern. The department is finding if there is good management,the problems are fewer. 28 Commissioner Gondorchin indicated in regard to rentals,there are ordinances that will allow the 29 city to take sanctions against the landlords.