11/09/1977 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

" . . Mr. Williams then wondered if the government had a right to direct . individuals or suppliers of information and regulate them in the use of that information. Stan Long, City Attorney, said that question had been looked at, and it was concluded that police power of the city was sufficiently broad to indicate it could protect a police department from being disabled. He said there was a question of balancing the danger that a police officer thinks is present, as opposed to an individual who does not call the Police Department first. He said that kind of balancing justifies such action. Mr. Lieuallen wondered if there could be an amendment to give the property owner the choice of calling the Police Department; and whether there was a system of fines that could be instituted for false alarms. Assistant Manager noted the use of an answering service had eliminated the problem of continuing false ala.rms. He said the last time this problem arose, it was determined the most effective way to deal with the problem was with the supplier of the alarm systems, noting there were licensing and registration procedures required for alarm operators. Mr. Williams continued he was very troubled in the sense that it seemed to him that if someone wanted to get himself killed, that was his private decision; the government should not say he can or cannot. He felt the same held true for alarm system reports. However, he said, that if, in fact, it were a problem where a police officer's life was in danger because of an intruder in the building with a gun or an owner with a gun, then he felt it was a City Council problem. He noted there had been no testimony from any of the owners or alarm companies. He felt it necessary . for Council to have input from those people most affected before it takes any action. Chief Brooks responded the Police Department wanted to try to reduce to zero the chances of someone getting hurt or killed. The delay in response time for the Police Department was his main concern, as this would give an advantage to the intruder'who might be desperate and his action could lead to a tragedy. He said in the past, some statements from City Manager's Office or some City official might have some effect, but it was not a long-lasting effect. C.B. 1556--Concerning alarm monitoring service; amending Section 3.661 of Code 1971; and declaring an emergency, was read by council bill number and title only, there being no Council member present requesting it be read in full. Mr. Williams moved, seconded by Mr. Lieuallen, to schedule the item for another Council meeting, allowing for further input from those affected. Motion carried unanimously. 11/9/77--12 - g~o ~ ,