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PSC - Minutes - 02-26-26MINUTES OF THE ROSEMEAD PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING February 26, 2026 The Regular Meeting of the Rosemead Public Safety Commission was called to order by Chair Garcia at 7:00 p.m. in the Rosemead City Council Chamber located at 8838 East Valley Boulevard, Rosemead, California. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: was led by Chair Garcia INVOCATION: was led by Commissioner Foutz PRESENT: Chair Stephanie Garcia, Commissioners Billy Alarcon, Jeff Foutz, Jonathan Fung, and Amy Wu ABSENT: Vice -Chair Liz Fonseca and Commissioner Tommy Martinez STAFF PRESENT: Public Safety Director Tim Murakami, Public Safety Supervisor Mandy Wong, and Public Safety Administrative Assistant Julissa Del Rio 1. PUBLIC COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE Chair Garcia opened the Public Comment period. Public Safety Liaison Del Rio informed the Commission that a public comment was received by Jonathan Loc. Jonathan Loc introduced himself to the Commission and shared that he currently serves as a staff member for a State Legislator. He expressed his interest in becoming more involved in the community and his intentions to attend future Public Safety Commission meetings. Mr. Loc also offered to serve as a resource and provide assistance when possible. 2. CONSENT CALENDAR A. Minutes of January 22, 2026 ACTION: Commissioner Fung made a motion to approve the minutes of the January 22, 2026, Public Safety Commission Meeting, and motion was seconded by Commissioner Alarcon. Motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Alarcon, Foutz, Fung, Garcia, and Wu NOES: None ABSENT: Fonseca and Martinez 3. MATTERS FROM STAFF A. L.A. CADA Service Reports An L.A. CADA representative presented to the Commission the report requested at the January 22, 2026, Public Safety Commission meeting. Representatives informed the Commission that the report presented included data for the following categories: total number of engagements, individuals receiving housing services, individuals placed in interim housing, individuals who obtained permanent housing, and various demographic subcategories. Chair Garcia asked the Commission if they had any questions about the report presented. No questions or comments were received by the Commission. An L.A. CADA representative informed the Commission that during the month of January, twenty- one (2 1) of the 126 homeless individuals they encountered were first-time encounters. They were able to place four (4) individuals into housing: two (2) were placed at Soul Housing, and two (2) individuals obtained permanent housing. They also placed two (2) individuals into substance use disorder (SUD) treatment: one (1) was placed at Hoving Home, and one (1) was placed at Casa de Corazon. Commissioner Foutz referenced the previous month's Public Safety Commission meeting minutes, where L.A. CADA representatives shared "weather conditions aid in homeless individuals' willingness to accept resources" and asked whether that was a valid statement. An L.A. CADA representative noted that this was a valid statement. Commissioner Foutz asked whether, if funds are being defunded, L.A. CADA representatives will continue to offer resources. An L.A. CADA representative informed the Commission that there are programs funded by Medi - Cal, and not all the resources offered require funding. Representatives shared that they face many challenges when providing resources, and some situations require them to advocate on behalf of the individual. Chair Garcia asked the L.A. CADA representatives when an individual is placed into permanent housing, whether a socio-economic study is conducted to verify that the individuals will be able to sustain their household income and meet day-to-day necessities. An L.A. CADA representative informed the Commission that individuals continue to receive case management and are encouraged to follow up or request assistance when needed to avoid any regression. Chair Garcia added that she feared the individuals who obtained permanent housing may become dependent on L.A. CADA representatives to continue resolving sustainability issues. She asked whether, prior to these individuals acquiring permanent housing, they were given the proper education and tools to sustain themselves without the assistance of L.A. CADA representatives. An L.A. CADA representative shared that maintaining a sustainable household income can be a struggle. He added that approximately forty percent (40%) of housed Americans live paycheck to paycheck. The L.A. CADA representative further explained that based on this evaluation, the Los Angeles County Affordable Housing Solutions Agency (LACAHSA) has secured funding to help prevent evictions and homelessness. An L.A. CADA representative also shared that case management is a key factor, as their main goal is to help individuals learn to sustain themselves without their assistance. However, he noted the biggest challenge is getting individuals to follow through with their own plans. Chair Garcia asked the Commission if they had any further questions No further questions were received. This report was received and filed by the Commission. B. Public Safety Community Service Officer Program Statistics Public Safety Director Murakami informed the Commission that he would provide the summary of the January 2026 statistics, as the Public Safety Manager Co was unable to attend the meeting. Public Safety Director Murakami shared with the Commission that he worked with Lieutenant Tiwari to modify the Community Service Officer (CSO) Program so that CSOs can assist the Los Angeles Sheriff (LASD) deputies in initiating the report process, as this was considered helpful in reducing response times. Commissioner Foutz requested further explanations on how CSOs assist LASD officers. Public Safety Director Murakami explained that CSOs are dispatched by LASD and are tasked with initiating the report process by collecting the victim's personal information. When the assigned LASD officer arrives at the designated location, the CSO hands over the initiated report, allowing the officer to continue the investigation. Chair Garcia noted that she has witnessed fewer Park Rangers patrolling City of Rosemead parks and asked whether their hours had been reduced. Public Safety Director Murakami informed the Commission that Park Rangers are overseen by the Parks and Recreation Department. He added how the Public Safety Department has both Code Enforcement officers and CSOs working on weekends. This report was received and filed by the Commission C. Crime Prevention & Emergency Preparedness Activities Public Safety Supervisor Wong informed the Commission that the summary report for February 2026 and forecast for March 2026 were included in the meeting packet and stated she was available to answer any questions. Commissioner Foutz requested additional information regarding the H.A.M weekly radio net check -ins and when they would resume. Public Safety Supervisor Wong informed the Commission that the H.A.M weekly radio check -ins remain a work in progress. She shared antennas that may need to be re -installed after the Public Safety Center renovation. And informed the Commission that there are currently other urgencies at the Public Safety Center that need to be addressed first. Chair Garcia asked whether the Community Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T) program dates were available. Public Safety Supervisor Wong announced that she and Lieutenant Tiwari have finalized the dates for the Public Safety Community Programs. She shared with the Commissioners that the Neighborhood Area Watch Meetings are by appointment only and provided the flyer for the Community Area Watch Meeting for the Reporting District 0530, which will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Rosemead High School Cafeteria. She added that this year they will not be hosting a Basic Academy but will instead host an Advanced Community Academy on the following dates: May 6, 13, 20, and 27 and June 3, and 10, 2026. She also shared that this year they will be offering a Summer Youth Academy that will be held during the summer after school. Additionally, she informed the Commission that the dates for the C.E.R.T. classes were scheduled and included in the packet. Lastly, she invited Commissioners to attend the Self -Defense Class on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at Garvey Park at 9:00 a.m. Chair Garcia asked if the Summer Youth Academy was tailored to a specific age group. Public Safety Supervisor Wong shared that the Summer Youth Academy is tailored for students in grades 7 through 12. This report was received and filed by the Commission D. LASD Crime Statistics Lieutenant Tiwari provided a summary of the January 2026 monthly statistics, and stated he was available to answer any questions. Commissioner Foutz asked whether the Flock System affected the statistics. Lieutenant Tiwari stated that the Flock system is a valuable tool for apprehending criminals, particularly in cases without any leads and in grand theft auto cases. Lieutenant Tiwari presented to the Commission data collected from a study focused on average response times over a five-year period. He added that the study -initiated efforts to identify downward trends, as LASD officers recognize that response times are a priority for the City Council members, the City Manager, and the Public Safety Commissioners. He further explained that for emergent calls requiring "lights and sirens," such as a child not breathing, or a vehicle accident with injuries, the calls averaged 4.2 minutes. For priority calls, including fights, domestic violence incidents, or vehicle accidents without injuries but causing traffic hazards, response times average 10.4 minutes. For routine calls, which are non -workable calls such as identity theft, trespassing, or alarm calls, response times averaged 67.3 minutes in 2024 and have significantly decreased to an average of 54.5 minutes. Commissioner Foutz requested clarification on whether LASD officers were receiving fewer routine calls. Lieutenant Tiwari clarified that within the past year, the lowest response times have been reported for routine calls. Commissioner Foutz asked whether the CSO's initiation of taking reports has helped lower response times. Lieutenant Tiwari shared that CSOs are a contributing factor but highlighted that the new facility provides deputies with a designated space to debrief, which has helped decrease overall response times. Commissioner Wu shared appreciation for LASD officers and the SAO team, expressing that response times are crucial when every minute counts. She also requested further details on the Virtual Deputy Program. Lieutenant Tiwari shared that there are certain criteria that will qualify for a Virtual Deputy to assist in taking a report. He explained how LASD dispatchers assess the call, and if the requested report meets the criteria, dispatchers will send a link to the informant's phone number, allowing the resident seeking to obtain a report to schedule the report to be taken at a convenient day and time. Lieutenant Tiwari referenced the January 22, 2026, Public Safety Commission Meeting, where it was requested that he provide photographs of the prepaid devices used by the Colombian South American crews. He informed the Commission that he prepared news clips to showcase the different devices. Lieutenant Tiwari elaborated that the Colombian South American crew burglaries are not unique to the City of Rosemead and are occurring across the nation. He added that the cameras used by these crews have their own backup batteries and hotspot devices, making it difficult for the Sheriff's High Tech Crime Units (HTCU) to evaluate and assess the source, as the data is encrypted and delivered in real time. Commissioner Foutz requested clarification on whether the cameras used only send real-time footage or if they also record and save it. Lieutenant Tiwari informed the Commission that the cameras are prepaid devices that utilize their own hotspots, making it difficult for LASD HTCU to trace the source. Commissioner Wu asked whether the cameras are waterproof. Lieutenant Tiwari shared that it depends on the camera the crew decides to utilize. He encouraged individuals to report any suspicious activity and to "fight back" by installing their own cameras or security systems This report was received and filed by the Commission. E. Rosemead SAO Team Weekly Report Lieutenant Tiwari informed the Commission that the weekly LASD reports were included in the January 2026 packet and that he was available to answer any questions. Commissioner Foutz commented that it was a thorough report and asked about the LASD operation on January 31, 2026, involving numerous motorcyclists. Lieutenant Tiwari informed the Commission on January 31, 2026, approximately 1,600 motorcyclists visited the City of Rosemead. He shared that deputies were on standby, set up their command post at the Public Safety Center, and were pleased to report that there were no incidents. Commissioner Foutz commented that LASD officers were on standby during the week of the operation, noting that, according to the report, the LASD motorist issued extra citations. Chair Garcia added that she appreciates the LASD motorists being more visible throughout the City of Rosemead and the schools. Lieutenant Tiwari shared that the LASD motorist maintains a routine of monitoring schools and assisting in addressing any concerns throughout the city. This report was received and filed by the Commission F. LA 28 Lieutenant Tiwari shared with the Commission that he is part of the LA28 San Gabriel Valley Committee, which will assist in overseeing security during the 2028 Olympics. He informed the Commission that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Secret Services (USSS) will be responsible for overall security. He added that discussions have begun regarding leveraging public transportation, as organizers would like to promote a no -vehicle Olympics. Lieutenant Tiwari also shared that the department is expected to work 12 -hour shifts due to anticipated influx of visitors in the San Gabriel Valley, particulary at hotels and restaurants. He informed the Commission that he will provide updates as they become available. Commissioner Foutz asked whether the 1-10 Freeway would be the major throughfare. Lieutenant Tiwari shared that the athletes participating in the Olympics will be staying in the City of Brentwood and transported to the corresponding cities, such as the City of Pomona, the City of Arcadia, the City of Industry, and the City of El Monte. He informed the Commission that the California Highway Patrol (CHP) will escort the athletes from one destination to the next, typically within an hour or less, by dedicating a lane to them on the I-10 Freeway. Commissioner Foutz inquired whether there had been any discussion regarding State Route 60 closures. Lieutenant Tiwari informed the Commission that, at this time, there has not been any discussion regarding freeway closures and noted that any closures would be handled by CHP. This report was received and filed by the Commission G. Drone Program Public Safety Director Murakami provided a brief overview of the City of Duarte's drone program. He informed the Commission that before a drone program is considered in the City of Rosemead, City Council would need to approve it, and a policy would need to be developed in accordance with the City Attorney's guidance, as there are many laws and regulations governing the use and deployment of drones. Commissioner Foutz asked whether the $22,000 would be considered as a down payment, considering the hours of training, equipment purchases, and licensing required. Public Safety Director Murakami informed the Commission that the $22,000 would be considered an initial investment, as ongoing training and equipment maintenance are required. Commissioner Foutz asked whether there was a direct liaison with the City of Duarte, as he would like to know the pros and cons of their drone program. Public Safety Director Murakami informed the Commission that Lieutenant Tiwari is the resident expert on the subject. Lieutenant Tiwari informed the Commission that the City of Duarte has shared positive feedback, but he noted that it has different objectives for the drone's use. For instance, Duarte has a riverbed, flooding concerns, and mountainous terrain, and they use drones for 4th of July fireworks enforcement and code enforcement investigations. Commissioner Alarcon requested clarification on the current protocol and procedures for deploying drones for LASD, as he believed they could only be used for search and rescue. Lieutenant Tiwari informed the Commission that there is a deviation that must be approved by the Sheriff's Department, as there are certain criteria under which drones can be utilized. Public Safety Director Murakami shared that LASD officers would be trained to deploy drones rather than relying solely on the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, but noted protocols and procedures still need to be established. Lieutenant Tiwari added that drone deployment and training are topics currently under discussion within the department, and that details still need to be finalized. Commissioner Foutz asked whether the drone flight time could be increased by removing certain gadgets and specifications, as the report indicated the drone has "approximately a 40 -minute flight time". Public Safety Director Murakami referenced the operation on January 31,2026 and informed the Commission that drones were deployed by LASD, and those drones had backup batteries. He added that there are new technological advancements that could be considered in lieu of utilizing drones. 4. MATTERS FROM COMMISSION A. Commissioner Comments Chair Garcia thanked all Public Safety staff for their hard work. 5. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 p.m. The next Public Safety Commission meeting will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers. ;APPRtephanie Garcia, Chair Timothy Murakami, Public Safety Director