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Council asks staff to return with options for public‑safety advisory and emergency‑preparedness roles
Summary
Council agreed to place a discussion on public safety and the potential structure of an advisory committee on a future agenda; members asked staff to examine models used by other cities and to consult police, fire and disaster‑preparedness staff.
The Santa Paula City Council directed staff to place a future agenda item to discuss public safety issues and the potential for a public‑safety advisory body that could include emergency‑preparedness functions.
Mayor Chavez proposed a future agenda discussion on establishing a public safety committee to strengthen communication, community engagement and policy advice related to police, fire and emergency response. City staff and the police chief said the city already plans a police chief advisory board tied to departmental goals and that the city’s existing Citizen Corps focuses on disaster preparedness; council asked staff to clarify overlaps and gaps.
Several councilmembers expressed concern about creating new standing committees without first defining scope and avoiding duplication of existing bodies (Citizen Corps, a police chief advisory board already planned in the strategic plan). Council agreed staff should research models used by other cities, consult relevant departments (police, fire, emergency preparedness) and return with options for scope, membership, and duties. The council motion to place the item on a future agenda (to include options and consultation summaries) passed by consensus.
Staff will bring back a menu of options showing: (1) advisory‑only models (chief’s advisory board), (2) a broader public‑safety committee that includes emergency preparedness, and (3) recommended membership, meeting cadence, and public‑engagement requirements. Council asked that any future proposal emphasize public outreach and avoid duplication with existing committees.
