Policing, consent judgment among topics discussed by Chelsea City Council

(Publisher’s message: this is the second story from the June 15 City Council meeting.)

During the Monday, June 15 Chelsea City Council meeting, there was a lengthy discussion of Chelsea’s Police Department policies and training.

The discussion was requested by Mayor Melissa Johnson.  

To listen to see the full meeting and discussion, please click this link. https://chelseami.viebit.com/?folder=ALL

Police Chief Ed Toth gave a lengthy presentation of the city’s policing policies, training, history and regulations beginning with the fact that the department is only responsible for the City of Chelsea and not the surrounding townships.

In addition, in the 14 years since he’s been chief, there have been very few complaints lodged against the department, maybe one a year. He said the most he could remember in one year were five and those included complaints within the department about other officers.

Among the points he explained was the many hours of training and the 300 combined years of experience that members of the department possess. He answered City Council questions and encouraged city residents to contact him with any questions or concerns they might have.

He also told the City Council that the department works with local community partners to assist with a myriad of problems such as mental health issues, seniors with middle of the night issues in their homes like plumbing problems or critters. The department also works with local financial institutions to combat elder financial abuses.

The broad-based overview of the policies and training included an explanation of Chelsea’s community policing philosophy, which is a partnership between the officers and the residents, the many hours of training and testing as well as policies undertaken regularly by the officers and communication not only within the department but also with the City Council.

It was suggested that residents attend the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Citizen Police Academy or request a ride-along with a Chelsea police officer.

Following the presentation, the City Council unanimously adopted a resolution opposing systemic racism and discrimination also put forth by the mayor.

In other business, the City Council voted unanimously to accept a consent agreement with Cavanaugh Investments, LLC, that clarifies a title for property on West Middle Street.

In what’s referred to as a “quiet title” the building owners retained the title to the property while the city retained an easement for a sanitary sewer line and a manhole cover, pipes, etc. some of which are located under the corner of the building where Zou Zou’s currently stands.

The City Council also unanimously approved a short-term lease of Suite 203 in the Clocktower complex for $1,500 per month when public meetings can be held in person. The governor recently extended virtual public meetings through July 31.

When allowed, the about 2,000 sq. foot space will be used for all city public meetings while the Municipal Building repairs continue.

It’s expected that the City Council chambers will be available for public meetings in September. The city’s liability insurance will cover the rental costs.

Council Member Charles Wiseley recused himself from this vote because he is employed by the company that owns the Clocktower.

The City Council also approved yearend budget amendments, the annual Other Post-Employment Benefit (OPEB) Liability Funding of $25,000 for current retirees, and approved the annual electric transfer payment in lieu of taxes, which amounts to about 5 percent of the budgeted electric sales or about $475,800.

Karon Barbour was approved as the delegate to represent Chelsea at the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System (MERS) Annual meeting in September and Toth was approved as the alternate delegate.