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Commander Sorenson confirmed no new equipment has been purchased and <br /> provided a presentation regarding the annual military equipment use report. <br /> Mayor Pro Tem Vazquez requested information related to the increase from .015% <br /> the first year, .054% the second year, and .023% this current year regarding total <br /> calls for service. He expressed concern regarding the deployment of military <br /> equipment used during protests related to ICE on June 9, 2025 and requested the <br /> Police Oversight Director create a report and policy on the use of weapons. <br /> Councilmember Lopez asked whether a member within the department has been <br /> designated to conduct yearly reports and clarification on the events in which the <br /> military equipment had been used. She requested a Zoom option be available for <br /> residents at the next community meeting, parking validations be offered, and a <br /> physical presentation be provided for future meetings. <br /> Chief Rodriguez confirmed multiple members within the department have been <br /> assigned. <br /> Commander Sorenson stated a data report was created in the department's RMS <br /> system to provide reporting access to all personnel and increased enforcement on <br /> East First Street related to the service of search warrants. He clarified the number <br /> of times the equipment was reported as being used as a force option and explained <br /> deployment refers to the removal of a 40mm launcher and projectile from a police <br /> vehicle, as opposed to the actual use of the equipment as a force option. <br /> Councilmember Penaloza echoed Councilmember Lopez's request regarding <br /> future community meetings and expressed gratitude to Chief Rodriguez for his <br /> efforts putting forth the policy. <br /> Councilmember Phan expressed gratitude to Commander Sorenson and <br /> acknowledged the department for taking responsibility for previous shortcomings <br /> while demonstrating a commitment to fixing the issue. She requested clarification <br /> on the purpose of each equipment item and emphasized the importance of <br /> transparency. She voiced support for Ordinance No. 3020 regarding the use of <br /> equipment when necessary and confirmed there have been no discussions within <br /> the City Council about purchasing drones. <br /> Councilmember Bacerra requested data regarding hate crimes be presented on <br /> the City website and echoed Councilmember Phan's comments. <br /> Councilmember Hernandez spoke in opposition to the item, voiced concerns <br /> regarding the potential harm to the community from the use of military equipment <br /> and the need for compliance, and asked when the protocol for deploying equipment <br /> is applied in a given situation. <br /> Chief Rodriguez stated proper approval from the commander is required for certain <br /> situations, such as SWAT deployments. <br /> CITY COUNCIL 11 AUGUST 19, 2025 <br />