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Resolution No. 76341 2 3 4 5 6 M EM 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 RESOLUTION NO. 7634 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VERNON APPROVING AND RATIFYING THE SUBMISSION OF A TRAFFIC SAFETY PROPOSAL FOR A STRATEGIC TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT PROJECT (POLICE TRAFFIC SERVICES/SPEED CONTROL PROGRAM) GRANT FROM THE CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY WHEREAS, funds are available from the State of California - Office of Traffic Safety ("OTS") for grants to local enforcement agencies for police traffic services and speed control programs; and• WHEREAS, on January 27, 2000, Bruce W. Olson, Chief of Police the City of Vernon, transmitted to the OTS Traffic Safety Proposals ("Proposal") for a 27-month Strategic Traffic Enforcement Project (Police Traffic Services/Speed Control Program) for grant funds in the sum of Three Hundred Fifty -Nine Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty -Nine Dollars and No Cents ($359,739.00), utilizing resources provided by the OTS to address the traffic safety needs of the City of Vernon to reduce accidents, subject to ratification by the City Council; and WHEREAS, the resources required to implement this program are not available at this time; and WHEREAS, on September 13, 2000, Teresa 'Becher, Interim Director of OTS, advised the Police Department that due to limited funds for new grants this year, the OTS was unable to fund the total amount requested but had tentatively approved funding pursuant to the Proposal in the amount of approximately $72,000.00; and WHEREAS, the City Council desires to approve and ratify the Proposal as submitted by the Chief of Police. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF VERNON AS FOLLOWS: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 SECTION 1: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby finds and determines that the recitals contained hereinabove are true and correct. SECTION 2: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby approves, authorizes and ratifies the submittal to the OTS of Traffic Safety Proposals in the amount of Three Hundred Fifty -Nine Thousand Seven Hundred Thirty -Nine Dollars and No Cents ($359,739.00), a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit "A and made a part hereof. SECTION 3: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby authorizes the City Administrator to execute any and all documents necessary for the purpose of securing grant funds and to implement and carry out the purposes specified in the Proposal for, and on behalf of, the City of Vernon. SECTION 4: The City Council of the City of Vernon hereby directs the City Administrator, or his designee, to send a copy of this resolution to: State of California - Office of Traffic Safety Attn. Teresa Becher, Interim Director 7000 Franklin Blvd., Suite 440 Sacramento, CA 95823-1899 - 2 - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 SECTION 5: The City Clerk of the City of Vernon shall certify to the passage of this resolution, and thereupon and thereafter the same shall be in full force and effect. APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 19th day of September, 2000. - LEONIS C. MALB G, Ma or ATTEST: BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk - 3 - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 STATE OF CALIFORNIA ) )ss COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) I, BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk of the City of Vernon, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution, being Resolution No. 7634, was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of Vernon at a regular meeting of the City Council duly held on Tuesday, September 19, 2000, and thereafter was duly signed by the Mayor of the City of Vernon. (SEAL) BRUCE V. MALKENHORST, City Clerk - 4 - EXHIBIT A POLICE DEPAATMEN T BOARD OF, POLICE COMMISSIONERS LEONIS C. MALBURG, CHAIRMAN THOMAS A. YBARRA WILLIAM M. McCORMICK POLICE HEADQUARTERS 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE CITY HALL 4305 SANTA FE AVE., VERNON, CALIF. 90058 January 27, 1999 Mr. Arthur L. Anderson, Director State of California Office of Traffic Safety 7000 Franklin Boulevard, Suite 440 Sacramento, CA 95823-1820 Dear Mr. Anderson: BRUCE W. OLSON POLICE CHIEF PHONE (323)587-5171 The City of Vernon would like to submit this proposal for a 27 month Police Traffic Services/Speed Control Grant. We believe that by utilizing resources provided by the Office of Traffic Safety we can more effectively address the traffic safety needs of our community. According to the Office of Traffic Safety rankings for 1997, the City of Vernon ranks number 1 in it's population group (Group G) in nearly every category including injury and fatal accidents, alcohol related accidents, speed related accidents, nighttime accidents and hit & run accidents. We believe that we can significantly impact the frequency of these types of accidents by implementing the program outlined in this proposal. We have submitted what I believe is a very comprehensive program , clearly defining the efforts we would be able to undertake to accomplish our goal of accident reduction. The resources required to implement this program are not available to us at this time. I respectfully request that the Office of Traffic Safety approve this proposal and provide the Vernon Police Department and it's personnel with the opportunity to work even more diligently towards providing a safer environment for the people who live, work and travel in the City of Vernon. If you have any questions regarding this proposal or if I can be of any assistance to you, please feel free to contact me or Lt. Steve Towles at (323) 587-5171. Sincerely, VERNON POLICE DEPARTMENT BRUCE W. OLSON CHIEF OF POLICE STATE OF CALIFORNIA - OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY OTS-136 (Rev. 10/!99) Coversheet for Traffic Safety Proposals Federal Fiscal Year 2000 - 01 TE. January 27, 2000 GENCY., Vernon Police Department COUNTY. Los Angeles OTS USE: ONLY PROP NO. Agency Code: EA: Fund: :;oordinator. Region: TITLE, Strategic Traffic Enforcement Project (Police Traffic Services/Speed Control Program) PROPOSAL SUMMARY. - (Summarize project goals and objectives) The Vernon Police Department's Strategic Traffic Enforcement Project will help to reduce the incidence of injury, fatal and non -injury traffic collisions within the City by measurable amounts, through the implementation of an equally comprehensive approach to traffic enforce- ment and public education. Utilizing the OTS blueprint, this project will include additiona manpower and equipment which will create opportunities to implement such needed enforcement actions as DUI/OL checkpoints, DUI saturation patrols and speed enforcement in areas identified thi-ough statistical analysis as target areas. A strong emphasis will be placed c educating the public through presentations to civic groups, local merchants, employee groups (List major items of expense) and transportation related industries. Educational hand-out e.g., personnel and equipment, etc. material, public service announcement posters and the developme of partnerships with members of the transportation industry for Additional Traffic Officer billboard messages are integral to this effort. Overtime for Specific Enforcement Efforts Sppeed Trailer I Trailer Educational/Promotional Literature DUComputer Radar/Laser Units Com P AGENCY CONTACT: Name: Steve Towles Title: Police Lieutenant Mailing Address: Vernon Police Department 4305 S. Santa Fe Ave.. Vernon, CA 90058 Phone No. ( 323 ) 587-5171 Ext: 116 FAX: (323 ) 583-5236 E-MAIL: stowles@ci.vPrnon.ra:us FUNDING REQUESTED: F.Y. 2000-2001 $ 249,465.00 F.Y. 2001-2002 F.Y. 2002 $ 93,167.00 $ 17,107.00 TOTAL: $ 359,739.00 Background (A) General Characteristics The city of Vernon, located approximately 4 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles, is a very unique city, comprised primarily of businesses and industry. The city is 5.06 square miles and it is a very diverse community with a daytime population of over 50,000, representing a wide variety of ethnicities, cultures and backgrounds. Surrounded by densely populated, lower socio-economic areas, it is a major source of employment for the Southeast Los Angeles community. The City is perhaps the main distribution point for products brought in through the Los Angeles Harbor and delivered by rail services to destinations throughout the country. (B) Streets and Highways The City of Vernon is bounded generally by the Long Beach Freeway (710), Harbor Freeway (110), Santa Monica Freeway (10) and the Century Freeway (105). There are over 47 miles of roadway, including three main thoroughfares, Alameda St., Soto St. and Santa Fe Avenue, which serve as the main arteries connecting the downtown area and East Los Angeles with a large number of cities within the Southeast portion of Los Angeles County. Each day, the population of the city swells from a residential population of 83 to a working population in excess of 50,000. This does not take into account all of the commercial traffic associated with the commerce that is carried out each day by the over 1200 businesses located in the City. In 1999, the City annexed the entire area adjacent to the Atlantic/Bandini Blvd. off -ramp of the Long Beach Freeway. This off -ramp is one of two which serve the entire Southeast area, including the cities of Bell, Bell Gardens, Huntington Park, Maywood, South Gate, Commerce and Vernon. It is also the main off -ramp for trucks moving product from the expansive rail yards that serve most of the Western States. This off -ramp and the adjacent city streets are slated for a complete redesign and construction project commencing in 2002. The Alameda Corridor Project, currently the most expensive public works project in the nation, will severely impact the traffic flow in the city of Vernon. The corridor project will run along Alameda St., which lies within the City and marks the boundary between Vernon and the City of Los Angeles. Generally, this project will result in the creation of a 10 mile trenched railway system which will run through what is currently a ground level median running down the middle of Alameda St. This will help to eliminate 200 highway -rail grade crossings, greatly improving the flow of traffic, air quality and other " quality of life" conditions within the impacted areas. Although these improvements will greatly enhance vehicular travel in the long. run, there is a price to be paid in terms of traffic congestion during the construction of these projects. As noted, Alameda is one of three main north -south thoroughfares for the city. Trench construction will mean that traffic normally using Alameda St. will have to take alternative routes through the area. This will greatly impact the flow of traffic along Santa Fe Avenue and Soto St. In fact, we are already experiencing traffic related problems as a result of road construction being done on these two streets in anticipation of the increased traffic flow. Because of the substantial number of commercial vehicles that enter the City on a daily basis, there are numerous facilities within the City, which cater to the transportation industry. These include overnight truck stops, service centers, restaurants designed to accommodate tractor -trailer combinations, truck washes and fueling facilities. The Police Department is constantly making efforts to mitigate the impact these vehicles have on the ability of the average commuter to safely travel within the City. The City has also passed various ordinances which are designed to help alleviate the congestion and other traffic related issues which arise as a result of heavy commercial vehicle traffic. Hobart Yard, the main railroad yard serving most of Los Angeles County lies on the northern -most tip of the City. This is a final destination point for trains coming in from all over the country as well as those used to help transport foreign cargo delivered by freighter to the harbor. Commuter trains also must use rail lines which traverse the yard while they are enroute to the train depot in downtown Los Angeles. This often results in freight train stoppages that negatively impact the flow of traffic on surface streets. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, Union Pacific Railroad, Amtrak and Metro -rail use this facility among others. With the increasing global trade market, there has been an increase in demand for rail services, resulting in an increase in both train traffic and overall train length. The resulting traffic congestion caused by slow -moving trains or temporary blockages is an issue of concern for the Police Department as well as the business community which risks the loss of revenue due to delays in service. (C) Operating Departments Although ours is primarily a transient population, the businesses and the people they employ look to the Vernon Police Department to provide the finest policing services available. To deliver these services, the Vernon Police Department is authorized to employ 59 sworn members and 29 non -sworn personnel. In addition to deploying officers in the more traditional role of uniformed patrol and investigations, our Department also participates in regional task forces addressing issues such as auto theft, cargo theft and narcotics interdiction. Although all officers are trained in traffic enforcement and accident investigation and several are trained in the use of speed detection equipment such as laser, we are only able to assign one officer to a full time traffic enforcement position at this time. This officer operates out of the Patrol Division during the hours of Tuesday through Friday, 0600 — 1600 hours, unless a specific problem is identified that warrants a temporary change. He is charged with the responsibility of regulating the operation of and inspecting commercial vehicles operating on City streets as well as targeting areas identified as problem locations (i.e. busy intersections, school zones and areas of heavy pedestrian traffic). This officer is still required to handle routine calls for service in the event no other officer is available. (D) Existing Systems As mentioned in the above section, our Department has only been able to assign one officer to a full time commercial enforcement/traffic enforcement position. As a result, the City and its Police Department has implemented several processes in an attempt to effectively manage the flow of traffic in as safe a manner as possible. They are as follows. The current Field Training Program requires newly trained officer to develop skills in the areas of traffic control, vehicle code enforcement and accident investigation. Uniformed patrol officers are encouraged to enforce vehicle code violations as a part of their normal patrol duties. Special attention is given to those violations that tend to be the primary collision factors for the greatest number of injury and fatal collisions. Area units are also briefed on the problem areas within their assigned beat. Drivers who are uninsured, unlicensed or driving on a suspended or revoked license are cited or arrested. The vehicles are currently stored per the Vehicle Code. We are working with our tow service provider to develop a plan for conducting 30 day impounds on these vehicles. It is anticipated that this will become an integral part of our enforcement efforts in the future. A detective has been assigned the responsibility of conducting follow-up investigations for all injury or fatal collisions as well as all hit and run accidents, regardless of injuries. He is responsible for filing all cases arising out of an investigated accident. This detective has received advanced training in accident investigation and works closely with the local District Attorney's office on issues relating to trains and their impact on the safe movement of traffic through the City. The designated traffic enforcement officer is an active participant in traffic safety programs of the Peace Officers Association of Los Angeles County (POALAC) Traffic Committee. He acts as the conduit for the Department in sharing relevant information developed by this organization. The Department, allocating additional personnel when possible also enforces the various countywide traffic enforcement programs that POALAC is currently conducting. The traffic enforcement officer also conducts a yearly traffic accident study to determine where and why collisions are occurring. With the identification of the worst locations in the city and the most common primary collision factors, the traffic enforcement officer formulates plans for enforcement efforts. This information is provided to all personnel to ensure that enforcement efforts are as effective as possible in reducing the number of violations and collisions. In addition to training all officers in the area of DUI enforcement, each officer is trained in the use of the lntoximeter machine and the Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) device. The Department received several PAS devices through a state program and each officer is required to check one out at the start of watch. This is done in an effort to reinforce the seriousness with which we view the problem of the DUI driver and to provide the officer with the tools he or she needs to make an accurate assessment of the level of impairment of a vehicle operator. At this time, we only have six PAS devices. Additional training has been provided for all officers in the area of Hazardous Material Response and Enforcement and a basic commercial enforcement class. The basic commercial enforcement course was hosted by our Department and attended by several agencies from Los Angeles and San Bernardino County. Each year, several officers also attend a Vehicle Code update class. Several videos produced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), including "The Visual Detection of DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Motorists", are required viewing for all patrol officers. In addition to the Police Department's efforts to provide a pro -active approach to traffic enforcement, the City's Community Services Department works to improve the safety of the motoring public through planning and engineering. The Community Services Department prepares it's own annual traffic collision report which provides insight into the causes of collisions and the factors which contribute to those accidents and the frequency with which they occur at any given location. They have taken an active role in responding to the traffic related concerns of the public by conducting site visits to assess the safety conditions at a given location. They have conducted traffic volume studies and made changes such as roadway or lane widening, adjusted_ the timing and synchronization of traffic signals, adding cross walks and stop signs and improving lighting in areas where such improvements are warranted. These efforts are made in an attempt to help cut down on traffic collisions which, it is estimated, result in economic losses of over 3 million dollars per year. Problem Statement The Vernon Police Department has taken an aggressive -approach to enforcing all traffic laws but currently lacks the resources and personnel necessary to implement the specific enforcement programs we believe are necessary to improve the safety of the motoring public According to the Office of Traffic Safety rankings for 1997, in nearly every category, including total fatal and injury accidents, alcohol involved accidents, speed related accidents, nighttime accidents and hit & run accidents, Vernon ranks number 1 out of the 34 cities within Group G, based upon population statistics. This is a rather dubious honor in that it means that in each category, this city has the highest incidence rate in each of these categories when compared to the 33 other cities in this population group. When compared to the other cities in OTS' Group G on the basis of vehicle miles, Vernon ranks near the top ten in many of these same categories, with the exception of HBD drivers under the age of 21. In this instance we are ranked 23 out of 34. These rankings exist in spite of our best efforts to commit available resources to the problems. With additional funding obtained through the approval of this grant, we would be able to hire another officer and create a second, full-time traffic officer position, obtain equipment which would substantially enhance our ability to attack these problems through increased enforcement activities such as DUI/DL checkpoints, dedicated DUI patrol efforts and conduct educational presentations to target audiences, such as employee groups, commercial vehicle operators, transportation related industries and the local school. At the present time, we lack the necessary manpower and resources to implement this type of traffic enforcement program. A recently completed analysis of our 1999 traffic statistics found that by having a dedicated traffic officer, we were able to positively impact the frequency with which accidents occurred. We experienced a 23% reduction in total accidents from 1998. In spite of this fact, we are still experiencing an inordinately high number of DUI arrests when compared to surrounding cities. For example, Maywood, with a resident (full-time) population of 30,000, made 46 DUI arrests in 1997, as compared to 121 for Vernon. That is nearly three times the number of DUI arrests for an agency that for all practical purposes, only has a daytime population. When compared to Huntington Park, with a resident (full- time) population of over 60,000, there were nearly half as many arrests in Vernon as in Huntington Park. Implementing enforcement strategies such as DUI/DL check points, assigning officers on an overtime basis to work DUI patrols and bringing educational presentations to the public through their employers and other civic groups, is expected to increase the number of DUI arrests while enabling us to take a pro -active, preventative approach to DUI related accidents through educational efforts. The incidence of hit & run traffic collisions is another problem which warrants increased enforcement efforts. The 1998 CHP SWITRS collision statistics indicate that the statewide average for hit & run in injury and fatal collisions was 10.2%. In comparing Office of Traffic Safety hit & run statistics for Vernon over the past three years, we have been consistently above the state average. According to the statistics for 1997, 12.2% of the injury or fatal accidents in Vernon involved hit & run drivers. Our own statistics for 1999, indicate hit & run was involved in 23% of all accidents reported. This percentage has remained constant over the past three years. One of the main contributing factors to hit & run traffic collisions is that one or more of the involved parties is likely to be operating a motor vehicle without a license or on a suspended or revoked license. These drivers are also likely to be uninsured. In 1996, our officers issued 106 citations for violations of Vehicle Code Sections 12500 or 14601. In 1997, the number rose to 146 for these violations. 1998 saw a dramatic rise to a total of 439 citations, a two-year increase of almost 200%! . Our own traffic analysis for 1999 found that 32% of motorists were unable to provide a valid driver's license at the time of a collision. This same analysis found that 57% of motorists were unable to provide proof of insurance at the time of a collision. These numbers should be alarming to anyone who operates a motor vehicle in the city. The effect of implementing a DUI/DL checkpoint strategy on the problem of hit & run accidents is well documented. In the city of Hawthorne, CA, monthly DUI/DL checkpoints were instituted as a way to reduce hit & run accidents. In just the first year, hit & run accidents were reduced by 44%. We would like to implement this strategy of conducting DUI/DL checkpoints as well in order to reduce the number of hit & run traffic collisions in Vernon. This would also have a collateral effect on our neighboring communities as well in that most of the people who are employed by the businesses in Vernon are local residents of the Southeast area. Additionally, we will be working closely with our local towing provider to begin implementing a 30 day storage period for vehicles stored or impounded as a result of the driver being unlicensed or driving on a suspended or revoked license. We also intend to implement a pro -active approach to the problem by meeting with employee groups as well as employers to point out the dangers and consequences of operating a motor vehicle while unlicensed or uninsured and allowing unlicensed employees to operate company vehicles. At the present time, we do not have the available overtime budget or resources necessary to engage in this type of enforcement effort. Long regarded as a factor contributing to collisions, speed has been -found to be directly related to the severity of vehicle crashes. As speed increases, the potential for injury also increases. In reviewing the Office of Traffic Safety statistics for 1997, Vernon ranked #1 out of 34 cities in it's population group for speed related injury or fatal traffic collisions. Speed was a factor in 14.5% of all accidents. This has remained consistent throughout the past three years. Our analysis of accidents for 1999 shows speed is the second leading primary collision factor for accidents in Vernon. In 1998, it was the leading primary collision factor in injury and fatal accidents. In order for any enforcement project to be effective, it must contain certain elements to address this problem of unsafe speed. By equipping sufficient units with mounted speed detection radar devices and/or handheld laser speed detection devices, we will be sending a clear message to the officers and the community, regarding the importance we are placing on speed enforcement and it's role in helping to reduce the number of collisions. At the same time, we are providing the officers with the tools they will need to effectively enforce the speed laws. The posting of signs, which advise that speed laws are strictly enforced, will be a part of the educational, pro -active approach we hope to take in addressing this problem. Presently, there are no funds available to cover the expense of implementing these types of measures designed to positively impact the rate. of injury or fatal accidents. As previously mentioned, we are also concerned about the impact that commercial vehicles and trains have on the safe flow of traffic within the City. Many of the commercial vehicles which provide transport services to businesses in the community are long -haul, independent truck operators who's ability to make a living often depends upon how quickly they can transport cargo from one location to the other. The inherent risk is that drivers may be pushing themselves beyond the legal or reasonable limit. This can result in poor judgments of distance and speed or worse. Implementing an information campaign utilizing "public service announcement" posters displayed at truck related facilities, reminding drivers of the risks involved in operating in an unsafe manner is one way in which we hope to focus attention on the problem. Our Department does not currently have monies available to develop this type of public information campaign. We have been working closely with the local District Attorney's office, representatives of the Public Utilities Commission, railroad representatives, our local Chamber of Commerce and the motoring public on the issue of how trains impact the flow of traffic through the City. The primary goal has been to reduce the number of trains that pass through the city during hours of heavy traffic. Such lengthy delays result in people taking chances on trying to beat the trains rather than having to sit for an extended period. While we will continue these efforts, we would also like to post public service announcements addressing the hazards of ignoring train safety devices to the motoring public. This effort would also include development of billboard displays which are in close proximity to heavily traveled railroad crossings. We will be working to forge constructive partnerships with the railroads to identify how this effort can be most effective. At the present time, we are not able to provide the funding necessary to create this type of billboard display. Funding through this grant would enable us to take advantage of this medium which brings the message of traffic safety to a large number of motorists. Attempts to Solve the Problem The Vernon Police Department currently has only one officer specifically assigned to traffic enforcement duties. Although he has been effective in helping to reduce the incidence of traffic collisions in the City, the efforts of just one officer are not enough to aggressively address the problems previously identified. Over the past three years, the percentage of our accidents which involve hit & run has remained constant. The biggest contributing factor to hit & run collisions is that one or more parties is unlicensed, driving on a suspended or revoked license or is uninsured. To date, we have not had a program in place to target this group of drivers. We have not had the physical resources or the available manpower to implement such a program.. Until recently we were unable to obtain approval to implement a program which would involve the storing of vehicles for a period of 30 days. We have since met with the owner of our local tow service provider and secured his commitment to assist us in this activity. With the addition of another traffic officer, implementation of DUI/DL checkpoints manned by officers on an overtime basis and saturation patrols conducted on an overtime basis, we expect to make a significant impact on this problem in the future. As previously stated, the Vernon Police Department has addressed the problem of the DUI driver by encouraging all patrol officers to actively investigate their observations of possible DUI drivers. Unfortunately, because of a limited number of officers, we have not been able to assign personnel to focus specifically on this problem. Frequently, our officers are busy answering other calls and are not typically available to make DUI enforcement a primary objective. We have been able to equip several of our units with in -car video cameras which have proven to be extremely effective in DUI arrests. We have also directed all patrol officers to carry a PAS device with them while on patrol to further assist them in their investigations. However, not all of our units are equipped with the in -car video systems and not every officer has a PAS device available. Under this grant, additional cameras and PAS devices would be obtained in an effort to equip all officers with the equipment they need to enhance their abilities to identify, arrest and provide testimony against DUI violators. In the past three years, speeding has been one of the primary causes of traffic collisions in our City. Although we have attempted to solve this problem, we lack the resources to actively enforce this violation. The traffic officer has been trained in the use of radar and laser and is the only officer in our Department authorized by the Vehicle Code to use these devices to measure speed. Although he has been effective in enforcing speed Laws, he is frequently called away to handle calls for service. Presently, we are utilizing two handheld laser guns. We do not have any unit -mounted speed measuring devices or signs posted to advise that speed is monitored on our City streets to assist in obtaining voluntary compliance with local speed limits. Traffic enforcement, including speed violations, is left to the area units to enforce as time and opportunity permit. Frequently, speed violations are obtained by pacing the violator. This makes obtaining strong evidence of excessive speeds somewhat difficult in a heavy traffic area. We have supplied each officer with the statistics from OTS as well as our own statistics which identify speed as an issue warranting their attention. We have also supplied them with information on the Locations where speed has been a factor in accidents and areas where these accidents have most frequently occurred. With the addition of another traffic officer, the obtaining of additional speed measuring devices and an improved informational campaign, we would be able to have a positive impact on the incidence of speed violations occurring in the City. We do not currently have any type of educational or promotional program in place to address the issue of train safety as it relates to the motoring public. Our enforcement efforts have been limited to trying to eliminate extended train related road closures. When a delay caused by a train is likely to last a long period of time, motorists are more likely to try and "beat" the train through a crossing or commit other traffic violations in an effort to get around the train at some other location. In 1998, there were 11 train related traffic collisions. We have been working closely with a number of groups to help reduce the incidence of train stoppages and have devised a plan to move traffic away from crossing whenever such, delays occur. However, we are often unable to implement this plan in a timely manner due to a shortage of available officers. We have not had the resources available to conduct an organized public safety campaign to educate the public as to the dangers of these types of driving tactics. We would, through the use of funds obtained through the grant, create a public information campaign to help address this problem. We would also make train -safety a basis upon which to develop partnerships with the railroads in an effort to improve safety. We do not currently have any type of educational or promotional program in place to address the issue of commercial vehicle safety as it relates to the motoring public. Our traffic officer has received extensive commercial vehicle enforcement training and conducts commercial vehicle inspections as part of his routine duties. Due to the amount of commercial vehicles that travel through the City, a public information campaign to address commercial vehicle safety would direct different messages to the general motoring public, commercial drivers and transportation companies. Additionally, as part of their assigned duties, the traffic officers would be available to address various groups within the City on the issue of commercial vehicle safety. We have made efforts to address the traffic related problems which have been identified through statistical analysis as well as input from the public. Although we have made some progress, there is much more that can be done through the implementation of a comprehensive program such as the one detailed in this proposal. Performance Measures Project Goals The primary goal of this 27-month project is to reduce the number of traffic collisions that occur in our City by conducting the following: 1. To reduce total fatal and injury traffic collisions by 10% from 1998 base year of 146 to 131 by December 31, 2001. An additional 10% from 1998 base year total of 146 to 117 by December 31, 2002. 2. To reduce hit-and-run fatal and injury collisions by 10% from the 1998 base year total of 9 to 8 by December 31, 2001. An additional 10% from 1998 base year total of 9 to 7 by December 31, 2002. 3. To increase the enforcement rate of violations of Vehicle Code Sections 14601 — Driving with a Suspended or Revoked Driver's License and Vehicle Code Section 12500 — Unlicensed Driver by 10% from the 1998 base year total of 439 to 483 by December 31, 2001. An additional 10% from the 1998 base year total of 439 to 527 by December 31, 2002. 4. To increase the enforcement rate of violations of Vehicle Code Section 23152 — Driving while Under the Influence of Alcohol and/or Drugs by 5% from the 1998 base year total of 124 to 130 by December 31, 2001. An additional 5% from the 1998 base year total of 124 to 136 by December 31, 2002. 5. To increase the enforcement of violations of Vehicle Code Section 22350 — Basic Speed Law by 5% from the 1998 base year total of 908 to ` 953 by December 31, 2001. An additional 5% from the 1998 base year total of 908 to 999 by December 31, 2002. Project Objectives 1. To conduct four DUI/Driver's license checkpoint by December 31, 2001 and four additional checkpoints by December 31, 2002. 2. To conduct twelve saturation patrols by December 31, 2001 and twelve saturation patrols by December 31, 2002. 7 3. 1 To develop a manual to be distributed to 59 sworn personnel by December 1, .2000 concerning the various techniques of the enforcement program in the area of traffic -related laws, crash investigations, patrol techniques, traffic control, search and seizure as related to motor vehicles, officer -violator relations, proper stop and approach methods and criminal aspects of traffic law. 4. To develop an in-service program that refreshes the basic skills and provides updated methods of enforcement and a program specializing in advanced techniques for officers assigned to a specialized traffic unit. We will train 40 officers by December 31, 2001. 5. To develop a program to recognize outstanding performance by officers as the result of a traffic stop. Any significant arrest, seizure of drugs or other contraband, will be brought to the attention of the media for a minimum of 4 media contacts per year of the project. 6. To develop and maintain a well -coordinated public information and education program. The program will identify the problem areas, objectives, target audiences, community involvement and campaign management requirements, as well as plan for a detailed evaluation of the results of the enforcement program. We will distribute posters, pay envelop stuffers with educational information. We intend to educate more than 5,000 people a year as a result of this information and education program. 7. To establish a policy to ensure that appropriate enforcement action is taking when a suspended or revoked driver's license is found. The policy will not permit an officer to lodge a charge of driving without a license as a substitute for driving after suspension. 8. To design a billboard campaign, targeting the arterial corridors with speed messages for a total of 3 billboards on 3 streets. 9. To increase enforcement of all posted speed limits on all roads by 5% each year of the project. Phase I - Preparation Stage (October 1, 2000 to December 31, 2000) The Sergeant in charge of the Department's training program will evaluate available schools for their appropriateness in relation to this project and schedule personnel as needed. During this phase, enforcement techniques will be developed. All members of the Vernon Police Department will receive a briefing on the goals and objectives of the traffic program and of the participation effort expected of all members. Two Police Officers will be selected to participate in this program. They will be recruited from the present complement of officers currently employed with the Vernon Police Department. We will develop policies within the Department that will define the responsibilities of the project members and the enforcement officers. Schedules for checkpoint operations, community events and related activities will be completed. The Project Manager will be responsible for the selection, purchase and installation of necessary equipment. The Vernon Police Department will provide the necessary equipment for the project members to effectively carry out all duties of the grant. 8 The Project Manager and enforcement officers shall develop a format for program presentations in the community. The Project Manager will develop a list of area media resources (print, radio, and television). Of utmost importance will be to explain the operation of our project and to offset any negative impact as a result of increased citations and arrests. We will design and have printed new traffic safety materials specifically aimed at our City's traffic problems and objectives of this project. The District Attorney's office will be provided a calendar of our scheduled events and will be encouraged to participate in our checkpoints or saturation patrols. A policy will establish the appropriate enforcement action is taken when a suspended or revoked driver's license is found. The policy will not permit an officer to lodge a charge of driving without a license as a substitute for driving after suspension. Coordinate with the Traffic Engineer to ensure that all speed limits are set as reasonable levels with no lapse in the Engineering and Traffic Survey Phase II — Implementation of Comprehensive Traffic Safety Program (January 1, 2001) The implementation stage will begin after training has been completed. Traffic and Uniformed Patrol Officers will follow strict enforcement of 12500 and 14601 to include impounding of vehicles of motorists operating in violation of these sections. Uniformed personnel will focus on detecting motorists who are driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The Project Manager and traffic personnel will meet monthly to plan and schedule deployment, evaluate statistical data, address problem areas, schedule public information and education appearances and evaluate if project objectives are being met. The Project Manager will commit his/her non -enforcement time to program publicity, community education, logistics, checkpoint operational support and OTS quarterly and year-end reporting. Phase III — COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT — (Throughout Project Period) Community involvement will be encouraged throughout the duration of the project. We will conduct a strong public awareness campaign through newspapers, the internet and other available media informing the public of our project and problems associated with driving under the influence, driving while. unlicensed or with a suspended driver's license and speeding. We will establish a liaison with local news media to advise the public of all checkpoint programs and related education programs. We will utilize the radar speed trailer as an educational tool to address problems associated with hazardous citations and collisions. The radar trailer will be placed alongside designated streets of each roadway that have been identified as a "speed problem" area. We will also conduct speed surveys using an on -board computer system that calculates time, date and speed of vehicles. If the need arises, enforcement will commence after a review of the computer generated study. We will continue and form collaborative partnerships with our local District Attorney's office, area alcohol/drug agencies, schools, hospitals, community groups, businesses, and employee groups. We will provide public information through specially prepared literature and promotional items relating to unlicensed drivers, speed and driving under the influence. All literature will be printed in English and Spanish. Phase 1V - Data Gathering and Analysis (Throughout project duration) Program data will be analyzed periodically and the results will be incorporated into timely reports. Quarterly project evaluation reports will be prepared by the Project Manager and submitted to the Office of Traffic Safety. These reports will involve an in depth analysis of the project's accomplishments and to ensure that project objectives are met. They will include concerning any changes made by the Project Director in planning or guiding project efforts. The reports will also include budgetary information in the format specified by the Office of Traffic Safety. The following are some of the methods to be used to evaluate the success of the program. A. Computer Printout Information The establishment of the enforcement program will begin with the identification of the current problem affecting the City. To accomplish this, an information system has been established that is capable of tracking historical trends as well as providing up- to-date information on vehicle crashes and enforcement activity data. Statistical information will be gathered and evaluated on a monthly basis. The purpose of the statistical information is to maximize the productive use of officer time and to achieve meaningful reductions of traffic collisions and/or violations throughout the City. The use of the statistical information is to keep abreast of changes in violation and collision patterns. This information will be provided to Department personnel and submitted to OTS. B. Activity Logs Each 12500 and 14601 arrest and vehicle impound will be logged. Each unlicensed driver, suspended/revoked driver's license and speed citation will also be logged to determine the effectiveness of enforcement. C. Supervision The Project Director and Project Manager will maintain close supervision of the program. The Project Manager will make recommendations for the deployment of personnel in order to maintain maximum effectiveness. Phase V - Completion of Project (December, 2002) Prepare final project report. Method of Evaluation Using the data compiled, the Project Manager will evaluate how well the project goals and objectives, were accomplished. The following questions will be addressed: 10 1. Were total fatal and injury traffic collisions reduced by 10% from the 1998 total base year total of 146 to 131 by December 31, 2001? Was the total fatal and injury traffic collisions reduced an additional 5% from 1998 base year total of 146 to 117 by December 31, 2002? 2. Were hit-and-run fatal and injury traffic collisions reduced by 5% from the 1998 base year total of 9 to 8 by December 31, 2001. Was the hit-and-run fatal and injury traffic collisions reduced by an additional 5% from the 1998 base year total of 9 to 7 by December 31, 2002? 3. Was the enforcement rate of violations of Vehicle Code Sections 14601 and 12500 increased by 10% from the 1998 base year total of 439 to 483 by December 31, 2001? Was the enforcement rate increased by an additional 15% from the 1998 base year total of 439 to 527 by December 31, 2002? 4. Was the enforcement rate of violations of Vehicle Code Section 23152 increased by 5% from the 1998 base year total of 124 to 130 by December 31, 2001? Was the enforcement rate increased by an additional 5% from the 1998 base year total of 124 to 136 by December 31, 2002? 5. Was there an increase in the enforcement of violations of Vehicle Code Section 22350 increased by 5% from the 1998 base year total of 908 to 953 by December 31, 2001? Was the enforcement rate increased by an additional 5% from the 1998 base year total of 908 to 999 by December 31, 2002? 6. Were four CDVDUI checkpoints conducted by December 31, 2001 and an additional four CDVDUI checkpoints conducted by December 31, 2002? 7. Were 12 saturation patrols aimed at drivers under the influence of alcohol and or drugs conducted by December 31, 2001? Was an additional 12 saturation patrols conducted by December 31, 2002? 8. Was an aggressive public information and education campaign conducted to stress the consequences of driving without a license, a suspended or revoked license, DUI, and the dangers of unsafe speed conducted? Were billboards placed within the City? 9. Were promotional materials provided to the motoring public as a means of encouraging them to support the need to drive responsibility? 10. Did the Vernon Police Department develop and implement a "Vehicle Impound" training program for patrol and traffic officers by December 1, 2000? Did the training program include reading and interpreting DMV printouts: preparing cases for prosecution as well as familiarizing officers with applicable Vehicle Code sections? Statement of Intent The Vernon Police Department is committed to the safety of all motorists through education, engineering and enforcement. The Vernon Police Department will continue programs developed by this project and continue the enforcement of all violations of the Vehicle Code. The Department will continue to employ the traffic enforcement officer funded by this grant for the purpose of enforcing traffic laws. 11 Administrative Support The City Council of Vernon considers the prevention of injuries and or death due to traffic collisions to be of the highest priority. As such, they enthusiastically endorse the goals of this project. The Vernon Police Department's Chief of Police is dedicated to the goals of D.U.I. enforcement, collision reduction and traffic safety related community education. This is evidenced by his assigning of a patrol division officer to the specific responsibilities of commercial vehicle and traffic enforcement. He has directed his command staff to ensure the objectives of this project are met and the goals of the project are achieved. Agency Contributions Project Director (Police Lt.) 4 hrs per month @ 56.08 (27 mo.) $ 6,056.64 Traffic Enforcement Officer 6 months salary w/ benefits $32792.63 The City will also contribute to the goals of the grant by covering the costs incurred for court appearances as costs associated with the booking and housing of prisoners arrested for D.U.I. and other traffic related offenses. Access to office and storage space and specialized office equipment will be made available to project personnel to accomplish the objectives of this project. The city will also cover vehicle and mileage expenses incurred as a result of efforts expended on meeting the objectives of the grant proposal. Budget Narrative The Vernon Police Department requires a total of $359,739.00 to implement this comprehensive traffic safety program. The funds will be used as follows: A. Personnel Costs The Vernon Police Department will hire one additional police officer. The new officer will replace the officer that will be assigned to the grant. Funds will be used to pay 100% of the officer's salary and benefits for the first operational year and 50% of the officer's salary and benefits for the second operational year. The current traffic officer will be the Project Manger of this grant. The Project Manager will be funded through the grant by overtime. The duties associated with the grant will be performed outside the course of his/her normal work hours. The grant will pay for overtime for involved personnel for the conduction of CDL/DUI checkpoints, special enforcement activities and warrant service operations. B. Travel Expenses The travel portion of the budget will be utilized for expenses to send two Department members involved in the grant project to the OTS Traffic Safety Summit and the Police Traffic Seminar. 12 Funds have also been included for two Department members involved in the project to attend the out-of-state NHTSA Lifesavers Conference. C. Non -Expendable Property The funds will be utilized for the purchase of necessary equipment to facilitate the objectives of this project which include the following: One radar speed trailer with a computer to be used in areas where speed has been determined to be the primary collision factor in injury or fatal traffic collisions. One sobriety checkpoint trailer to be utilized at all checkpoints. Five handheld laser units to obtain a more reliable reading for enforcement of speed violations. Two of the laser units will be equipped with a mapping program to assist in traffic collision investigation. Five mounted radar units to increase the available, resources and encourage patrol officers to write citations for speed violations versus having to rely on the speedometer (pacing) of violators. One laptop computer and printer to automate traffic records management. Two digital cameras to document collision scenes, checkpoints and publiceducation activities. Five preliminary alcohol -screening (PAS) devices to provide officers with additional objective information to establish probable cause for arrest and further chemical testing. Two mounted in -car video cameras to assist in the prosecution of offenders. D. Other Direct Costs Ten radar/laser enforcement signs Ten "seat belt law strictly enforced" signs. Promotional items and brochures to be distributed at checkpoints and public safety events, press/businesses packets on our project and film processing. Recognition items for involved personnel. Program Income There will be no program income generated as a result of this project. 13 10/1/00 10/1/01 10/l/02 TOTAL 9/30/01 9/30/02 1 2131 /02 PERSONNEL 1 Full Time Police Officer 6 months @ 4,975 inc. benefits) 100% 29,848.00 29,848.00 6 months @ 5,214 (inc. benefits) 100% 31,283.00 31,283.00 6 months @ 5,214 inc. benefits) 50% 15,642.00 15,642.00 6 months @ 5,465 (inc. benefits) 50% 16,395.00 16,395.00 Project Manager (Overtime) 3 Months - 30 Hours Month, 4,208.00 4,208.00 9 Months - 20 Hours Month 8,417.00 8,417.00 12 Months - 20 Hours Month 11,222.00 11,222.00 3 Months - 20 Hours Month 2,806.00 2,806.00 Saturation Patrol (Overtime) Officer 12,625.00 16,834.00 4,208.00 33,667.00 Vernon Service Officer 2,061.00 2,748.00 687.00 5,496.00 Checkpoint Overtime Sergeant 1,740.00 2,320.00 580.00 4,640.00 Police Officer 14,028.00 18,704.00 4,676.00 37,408.00 Vernon Service Officer 1,717.00 2,290.00 572.00 4,579.00 Dispatcher 880.00 1,173.00 293.00 2,346.00 Records Clerk 704.00 939.00 235.00 1.878.00 MISCELLANEOUS Presentations 300.00 300.00 300.00 900.00 NON -EXPENDABLE PROPERTY 5 Handheld Laser Guns 20,075.00 20,075.00 2 Accident/Crime.Scene Mapping for Laser 4,990.00 4,990.00 1. DUI Checkpoint Trailer 14,904.00 14,904.00 5 Unit Mounted Radar Units 14,900.00 14,900.00 1 Radar Speed Trailer 14,985.00 14,985.00 2 Unit Mounted Video Cameras 8,390.00 8,390.00 6 PAS Devices 5,215.00 5,215.00 1 Laptop and Printer 4,000.00 4,000.00 2 Digital Cameras 2,000.00 2,000.00 500 Mouthpieces for PAS Devices 110.00 110.00 1 Mobil Computer Terminal for Trailer 15,000.00` 15.000.00 1 Police Radio for Trailer 3,500.00 3,500.00 1 Set of Graphics for Trailer 235.00 - 235.00 Arrow Stick for Trailer 500.00 500.00 OTHER DIRECT COSTS 20 Seatbelt and Radar/Laser Signs 1,000.00 1,000.00 8 Checkpoint Signs 800.00 800.00 Cones and Collars 800.00 800.00 Checkpoint Brochures 5,000.00 5,000.00 Film and Processing 250.00 100,00 50.00 400.00 Promotional Items 20,000.00 20,000.00 Presentation Supplies 1'000.00 500.00 100.00 1.600.00 Recognition Items 1'000.00 1'000.00 TRAVELEXPENSES OTS Related Conferences'for 2 people. 4,000.00 4,000.00 1 .600.001 9,600.00 Lifesavers conference for 2 people TOTAL 1249,465.00 1 93,167.00 1 17,107.00 359,739.00 14 SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS CITY COUNCIL LEONIS C. MALBURG Mayor THOMAS A. YBARRA Mayor Pro-Tem WM. 'BILL" DAVIS Councilman H. "LARRY" GONZALES Councilman W. MICHAEL MCCORMICK Councilman BRUCE V. MALKENHORST City Administrator / City Clerk FAX (323) 581-7924 City Council City of Vernon Honorable Members: UARDO OLIVO City Attorney q FAX: (562) 927-8722 �J KEVIN WILSON Director of Community Services & Water FAX: (323) 588-2761 CITY HALL 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA 90058 TELEPHONE (323) 583-8811 September 14, 2000 KENNETH J. DeDARIO Director of Municipal Utilities FAX: (323) 583-1983 DAVE TELFORD Fire Chief FAX: (323) 581-1385 BRUCE W. OLSON Police Chief FAX: (323) 583-5236 The Police Department has applied for a California Office of Traffic Safety (COTS) Grant from the State . The funds can be used for Police Department projects relating to Street issues that can assist us in attempts to reduce traffic collisions. That grant could be as much as $359,000.00. It is hereby recommended that the application submitted by the Police Department be approved and ratified. Very truly yours, Bruce V. Malkenhorst City Clerk BVM/ng VERNON POLICE DEPARTMENT OFFICE MEMORANDUM September 11, 2000 TO: B.V. Malkenhorst, City Administrator FROM: Bruce W. Olson, Chief of Police SUBJECT: Office of Traffic Safety Grant Funds Sir: As we discussed in January of this year, grant funds are available through the California Office of Traffic Safety. I would like to apply for and receive these funds amounting to approximately $359,000. These grant funds would be used for a number of enforcement projects which will result in safer streets throughout our City. My goal will be to reduce the number of fatal, injury and non injury collisions occurring within our jurisdiction. Your consideration in this matter is appreciated.