City of Hercules

This meeting, which concluded a three-part series, focused on public safety and community trust. Key discussion points included emphasizing trust as the foundation for effective public safety, accountability, and continuous improvement within the police department. The Police Department outlined several implemented policies and training enhancements, such as specialized training in crisis intervention and deescalation, new protocols for reviewing use of force incidents, and stricter rules regarding body-worn camera muting. Other topics covered involved non-criminal call response protocols, officer accountability through performance reviews and body-worn camera audits, pending Post audit reviews, and updates on community engagement efforts including the return of the youth and community academies and the role of the Community Liaison Officer. Concerns were also raised by attendees regarding the promotion and recording of the town hall series.

The agenda includes discussion and possible action on various topics such as the District Strategic Plan and Sustainability Efforts, the 2023-2024 Annual Audit Report, the 2023-2024 Measure O Report, a Tax Increment Report, and a Weed Abatement Program. A public hearing will be held regarding a Measure O CPI increase. Other agenda items include the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, confirmation of Phillips 66 ad valorem property taxes, acceptance of a State Homeland Security grant for thermal imaging cameras, the Fire Chief's report, staff reports, board member reports, Measure O Oversight Committee comments, Local 1230 comments, and a request for future agenda items. A closed session will be held to confer with legal counsel regarding anticipated litigation.

The City of Hercules' strategic plan, completed in May 2024, focuses on seven key goals: advancing the Hercules Hub, ensuring fiscal sustainability, improving community transparency and communication, investing in city staff, planning and funding major infrastructure, developing a comprehensive land-use strategy, and creating a comprehensive economic development strategy. The plan outlines tactical steps and timelines for achieving each goal, including enhancing regional partnerships, exploring revenue sources, improving communication channels, addressing staff capacity, prioritizing infrastructure projects, updating the General Plan, and devising strategies to expand retail and attract businesses. The process involved interviews with city council members and staff, a facilitated workshop, and collaboration with Tripepi Smith Talent Solutions. The plan aims to align city staff with council priorities and provide a three-to-five-year vision for work and budget priorities.