Concord · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Concord public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Welcoming city resolution and United Against Hate
The council honored the Raise the Roof Coalition behind Concord's 2017 inclusive-community resolution. Coalition speakers said the need is greater than ever, with ICE operations in the heart of the Monument community and the only Bay Area immigration court located in Concord.
Concord PD U-visa certification practices
A Catholic Charities representative said the officer now handling U-visa certifications is rejecting victims' paperwork and making hostile comments, discouraging domestic violence victims from reporting crimes. He asked the council to direct the police chief to investigate.
Immigration Policy and Senate Bill 580 Implementation
Speakers asked the council to commission an independent audit of Flock surveillance cameras and to agendize a discussion of SB 580 compliance, citing worries about ICE data requests made under other agencies' names.
Police Department Annual Update and Technology Integration
The 911 dispatch center is effectively running with 12 of 17 authorized dispatchers, driving heavy overtime. Rehiring a recently retired veteran dispatcher for about a year should ease the strain while four trainees finish up.
Police Labor Agreements (MOUs)
The city council held closed-door discussions with negotiators regarding labor agreements for multiple employee bargaining units, including Teamsters and OPEIU locals, as well as management staff.
Mental Health Evaluation Team (MHET) Services
The city accepted county funding to support police participation in a joint mental health outreach program.
Behavioral Health Wellness Campus Update
Contra Costa Health Services provided an update on the nearly completed Behavioral Health Wellness Campus at 1034 Oak Grove Road, which will feature an outpatient clinic, peer respite, and access line.
Family Justice Center Services and Community Impact
The new executive director of the Family Justice Center provided an update on supportive services for victims of interpersonal violence, highlighting high client volume at the Concord Todos Santos Plaza center.
Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP)
Concord is updating its General Plan safety element to include its hazard mitigation plan, which unlocks an extra 6.25% in state disaster reimbursement funds when emergencies happen.