Redondo Beach police chief details innovative wellness and crossing guard programs

The Redondo Beach City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, highlighted significant discussions surrounding public safety and community wellness initiatives, particularly focusing on the police department's wellness programs and the ongoing challenges of staffing the city's crossing guard program.

One of the key topics was the police department's wellness program, which aims to enhance the health and morale of officers. Chief of Police emphasized that a healthier staff leads to better public service. The department has implemented various initiatives, including in-house jiu-jitsu training and team-building events, to foster resilience and leadership skills among officers. The chief noted a reduction in workers' compensation claims, attributing this success to the wellness efforts and a positive organizational culture. The department is seeking to secure ongoing funding to maintain these wellness programs in the upcoming fiscal year.

Another major discussion point was the city's crossing guard program, which has faced staffing challenges. Currently, 27 intersections are staffed, with 17 adjacent to schools in the Redondo Beach Unified School District. The program costs over $550,000 annually, and while city employees are preferred for these roles, there are difficulties in attracting enough applicants. The council is exploring options to transition from one-time funding to a more sustainable core budget approach to ensure consistent staffing at these critical intersections.

The conversation also touched on innovative ideas for enhancing safety, including the potential for a school safety patrol program involving parents or older students. However, concerns about liability and the reliability of volunteer participation were raised. The chief acknowledged the challenges of managing crossing guards, especially during adverse weather conditions, and emphasized the need for dependable staffing to ensure safety for children.

In addition to these discussions, the council reviewed the possibility of implementing red light cameras to improve traffic safety, although this initiative would require careful consideration due to its controversial nature. The chief indicated that while red light cameras could enhance safety, they would need to be approached cautiously to avoid backlash from the community.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing public safety through proactive wellness initiatives and addressing staffing challenges in critical programs like crossing guards. As the council moves forward, these discussions will play a vital role in shaping the city's approach to community safety and well-being.