Meetings Steering Committee(Folders 1-2)

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The State Police have been downsizing since the late 1970's (down about 400 officers since 1979); however there is no way to predict exactly what will happen in the future in regard to staffing. The Chairman stated that he believes it would be better if the State Police leased their space (they are not allowed to own the space) from another state agency rather than from the County. That way, the State Police would have a more vested interest in ensuring the success of the facility. Lt. Rogers respond- ed by stating the State Police are committed to making the facility work, even if they are not owners of it, because it is in the best interest of the public and all three agencies for it to. be successful. Valerie expressed concern about whether or not there has been enough space allotted for the agencies to grow into over the next 25 years. Lt. Rogers responded that, although it is a possibility that the facility may need to be expanded later on, it appeai•s at this point that there will be enough space. He added that the approximate $30 million figure does include the 20,000 square feet for Marion County Corrections. The Chairman inquired about the cost figure of $150/square foot: if commercial property is currently being constructed in Salem at a cost of approximately $100/square foot, why should the new facility cost so much more? Several people responded to the question. The $150/sq. ft. figure includes projected inflation, the higher cost of durable building materials, and the fact that the facility will be built to Seismic Zone 4 rather than Seismic Zone 3. It was asked if the three agencies would consolidate their separate criminal records systems into one. Lt. Rogers responded that the City and County would consolidate theirs as their systems are already very similar; however, the State Police would maintain their own sepazate system. The three agencies already can now, and will be able to then, access each other's criminal records systems via computer. The Chairman noted that it is unclear in the report as to whether or not the State P.D. actually favors including Marion County Conections, or not. The response was that the answer is definitely "yes' ; however, it needs to be confirmed that including Corrections is the best use of the available space/resources. Ruth asked what the actual service outcome will be for the public. The re- sponse was that, first of all, it will mean more officers on the street (i.e., officers who would otherwise have been tied up in the office examining evidence, could now be out on patrol because there will be civilians to process evidence). It will also mean increased effectiveness and efficiency within all three agencies, which basically spells out better law enforcement in general.