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and that authorizing the hiring of two additional officers is also recommended although with the specific funding mechanism to be determined during the mid- year budget review. He further stated that the plan for the Police Chief report back in November on staffing for the downtown may be somewhat delayed given this priority. He also emphasized the great need for volunteers that exists in the P.A.L. program where more services could be provided to youth if the volunteer pool were larger. Council Member Hartnett emphasized that Police Chief Bolanos has deployed resources in the best possible way to this stage but it is clear that he and the San Mateo County Sheriff are the most collaborative and organized in the County and employ the most innovative solutions working across jurisdictional boundaries. He stated that phase I is systematic, consistent, tough efforts to suppress gang violence and that we should be prepared to fund beyond three months if necessary. He further stated that the Police Department itself cannot solve the gang problem on its own; that communitywide effort is needed and other City departments will be needed to work under the leadership of the Police Department in this effort. Public Comment: Maria Diaz -C. Vivian thanked the Council Members for their attendance and support at the recent community meeting that exhibited a lot of good will from the residents and representatives from the County. She acknowledged Chief Bolanos' proactive approach stating that sometimes people ask about prevention, and stated that it is prevention in keeping people from hurting each other and innocent victims. She also thanked Chief Bolanos, Mayor Ira and Council Member Hartnett for advocating for the gang suppression task force because it is a very important component. She further stated that she looks forward to a countywide task force. City Manager Everett thanked Ms. Diaz -C. Vivian for hosting the meeting of approximately 150 -200 parents, concerned citizens and youth. He stated that based on the Council's community building focus, he has directed that all those in attendance be updated on Council action; that PCRC will be utilized and the meeting attendees will be divided into three geographic areas; meetings will occur at a more regional level; then those areas will come together and share ideas. In addition, a plan is being composed for use of existing resources in Code Enforcement to put more effort into enforcement with the assistance of the community. JOINT MEETING September 12, 2005 CITY COUNCIL AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY PAGE 8 MINUTE BOOK NO. 60 Page No. 574