Department of Police
Reference: Presentation by Chief Southard regarding an MOU with School District 27J
To: Mayor Kenneth J. Kreutzer and Members of City Council
Through: Philip Rodriguez, City Manager
Prepared By: Paul Southard, Chief of Police
Date Prepared: July 11, 2018
PURPOSE
To request the approval of a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Brighton and School District 27J for formalization of the joint School Resource Officer Program.
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA
Safe, Active and Engaged Community
BACKGROUND
For many years the Brighton Police Department has provided the presence and services of School Resource Officers (SRO) in District 27J schools. In the 2017-2018 school year, five Brighton Police Officers were assigned to district schools to assist in the prevention and control of crime, delinquency, truancy, and disorder on campus and in areas adjacent to campuses.
In addition to crime prevention School Resource Officers provide presentations and education to students and parent groups on a variety of topics related to the health and well-being of students.
CRITERIA BY WHICH COUNCIL MUST CONSIDER THE ITEM
This agreement between the City of Brighton and School District 27J helps identify a clear vision for the partnership between the two organizations. Ever changing social issues related to school safety and community outreach with local youth requires a proactive approach by the Brighton Police Department.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Under this MOU the City and 27J each agree to pay 50% of the salary and benefits of each SRO. Currently the average cost related to each SRO is $102,125/year or
$255,312/year per entity. The school district agrees to pay 100% of school related overtime costs incurred by SROs. Subject to annual appropriation, this agreement will commence August 6th 2018 and terminate June 30, 2023.
The school district has requested the addition of a sixth SRO for the 2018-2019 school year. After division of anticipated salary and benefits the additional financial impact to the city would be $51,062.50. This amount will be included in a 2019 annual budget request.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
To more clearly define the expectations of both the City and School District 27J, the Brighton Police Department recommends approval of the MOU.
OPTIONS FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
Approve - This will formalize the agreement between the City and School District 27J.
Decline - Continue with an informal agreement
ATTACHMENTS
• Memorandum of Understanding
• Resolution