Doc 31-G- Mayor Barrett submits the Memorandum of Agreement for the Police Patrolman Association Group
- 16.9.1.1. Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Haverhill and the Police Patrolman Association Group
Minutes
Mayor Barrett told the council the agreement strengthens police professionalism and public safety through body-worn cameras, improved scheduling, education and language incentives, and a continued focus on training and accountability. President Jordan thanked those involved, supported body cameras for accountability and officer exoneration, raised concerns about mental-health social work coverage, and questioned camera costs; Mayor Barrett responded that a social worker will be refilled January 26, wellness services expanded, 95% of officers are crisis-trained, and grant funding is being pursued, noting storage is the largest expense and regional options are being explored with Rep. Vargas. Councilor LePage commended the Mayor and union and cited personal jury duty experience showing body cameras tell the full story, while Councilor Lewandowski, a former prosecutor, emphasized cameras as ironclad evidence that improves officer safety, the judicial process, and community relations, asking about website transparency; Mayor Barrett said policies will be posted and several steps remain before rollout. Councilor Basiliere detailed extensive research and meetings, highlighted benefits of the 4x4 schedule, education incentives, reduced violence and complaints, and noted that roughly 85% of footage reviews exonerate officers, reducing city liability; he confirmed cameras must be implemented within six months of receiving the anticipated grant and supported the contract as improving public safety.
Motion by Councilor Sullivan to approve, Second by Councilor Rogers
PASSED – Yeas 10, Nays 0, Absent 1 (McGonagle)