Page last updated on February 23, 2018 at 4:21 pm
For more information, please contact
Mary Catherine Carmichael
Director of Public Engagement
carmichm@bloomington.in.gov
812-349-3406
Timeline Announced for Input and Review of CIRT Vehicle Replacement
Bloomington, Ind - Mayor John Hamilton today announced the process and timeline for public input, review and decision-making about the planned purchase of a replacement of the Bloomington Police Department’s Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) vehicle for police and resident protection.
Following announcement of the planned vehicle purchase at the February 6 annual Public Safety Update, the administration has conducted a process review, and a series of five public meetings has begun, to review all aspects of the planned purchase, including the vehicle itself and the protocols and procedures that would govern its use.
Police Chief Michael Diekhoff hosted a community question and answer period on February 13, and the Bloomington City Council convened a town-hall-style listening session on February 20. Both meetings were well-attended and offered opportunities for residents and others to share concerns, support, ideas, and questions.
On Tuesday, February 27 beginning at 6:30 p.m. and Thursday, March 1 beginning at noon, the public is invited to two open-house-style meetings to be held in the atrium of City Hall, 401 N. Morton. These meetings will be an opportunity for dialogue with City officials, Police Chief Michael Diekhoff and members of the CIRT. Attendees are welcome to come and go as their schedules permit, and can leave their comments in written form if they prefer. Any aspect of the planned purchase, vehicle operation, or procedures is open for discussion. And continued input is welcome anytime by sending an email to mayor@bloomington.in.gov or calling 812-349-3406.
The Board of Public Safety, which is the citizen board charged with oversight of the City’s Police and Fire Departments, will host a special meeting in City Hall Council Chambers on Tuesday, February 27 to review CIRT policy with the Police Department and to take public comment. The meeting is scheduled from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The City Administration will take all the public input into consideration, will review options, and will announce the planned direction forward before the end of March.
“Ultimately our commitment is to reach a decision that is appropriate for Bloomington and the public safety of all our residents, visitors, students, and public safety officers. We will announce what that will look like after all comments and options are considered, which will be no later than the end of March,” stated Mayor Hamilton.
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