WHEREAS,
Recent publicized incidents about alleged police misconduct serves to undermine the public trust, and the rights and dignity of the citizens whom they serve; and
WHEREAS,
The balance between public safety and constitutional rights is one of the most challenging yet important issues between the Police Department and communities in Philadelphia; and
WHEREAS
, Meaningful police accountability, open to public dialogue and scrutiny, is an important component in facilitating transparency between city government and the public; and
WHEREAS,
Building and sustaining mutually respectful and trusting relationships between police and the community at large is an important component of the Philadelphia Police Department's strategy at responding; and
WHEREAS
, Police Commissioner Charles H. Ramsey has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving overall relationships between the Police Department and its citizenry, particularly minority communities, and listening to their concerns and experiences through town hall meetings, private meetings, open forums, and City Council sponsored meetings; and
WHEREAS,
Issues of crime and violence pose monumental problems for all persons who live and work in Philadelphia, and are best addressed through a strong, united effort among the Community, City Government and the Police Department; and
WHEREAS,
Ensuring public safety and openly discussing all police and community relations are crucial to the success and preservation of this great city;
now therefore be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA
, That the City Council Committee on Public Safety host a series of roundtables across the City focusing on Police Community Relations between the Philadelphia Police Department and the Citizens of Philadelphia, while fostering and encouraging improved relationships.
End