To continue to address public safety concerns in the City of Annapolis, Mayor Ellen Moyer is requesting changes be made to the current agreement between the City and the Housing Authority.
"Since 2004 Annapolis has provided the Housing Authority with $200,000to employ police officers to work as off duty security," said Mayor Moyer. " This money was to be matched with HACA funds for a $400,000 public safety program. HACA has not utilized all of the City's contribution. It has also been unsuccessful in recruiting from other law enforcement agencies. Accountability for public safety expenditures on a $400,000 program is sketchy at best.
I am, therefore, requesting that the City change its grant commitment and manage its own resources dedicated to HACA.
Recognizing that HACA is federal property and that their consent is needed for partnership, I propose a new and separate agreement of understanding be negotiated to do the following:
1. The Housing Authority of the City of Annapolis and the Annapolis Police Department share to outfit each HACA neighborhood with surveillance cameras.
2. HACA and APD share costs for a sub-station program.
3. APD, if HACA agrees, assign undercover police to the area and enhance neighborhood watch training.
4. HACA to implement the community service program for all residents as required by HUD.
This program will clarify accountability for services and clarify roles and responsibility. The goal is to enhance public safety.
Additionally, I am requesting the City's Community and Housing Board to review successful housing programs in other jurisdictions, research opportunities for home ownership and social service needs, and to recommend changes in our federal housing program required to enhance public safety. Some changes may require federal or state legislation.
Money will be allocated for a staff consultant to assist in the task." Mayor Moyer is requesting a meeting with HACA Executive Director Eric Brown to discuss the changes.
