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Public Comment: Angelina Steiner, Northland Ave. – Ms. Steiner addressed the nation's failure <br />to reconcile with its historical treatment of Black individuals. She argued that acknowledging <br />this dark past is essential to prevent the repetition of such injustices. Ms. Steiner advocated for <br />Lakewood’s Racial Equity Plan as a means of education and action, emphasizing the <br />responsibility of ensuring Lakewood remains an equitable and safe community for everyone. She <br />warned against the risk of performative justice without effectively taking meaningful action. <br />On the motion: All in favor. Motion passed. Resolution 2024-04 adopted. <br />*** <br />14. Communication from Mayor George regarding Mayoral reappointments to the Lakewood <br />Heritage Advisory Board. (pg. 70) <br /> <br />Motion by President Kepple, seconded by Vice President Shachner, to receive and file the <br />communication. All in favor. Motion passed. Communication received and filed. <br />*** <br />15. Communication from Mayor George regarding an agreement with the Westshore Council of <br />Governments (WCOG) for the purchase of a Bearcat for use by member communities. (pg. <br />71) <br /> <br />Motion by President Kepple, seconded by Vice President Shachner, to receive and file the <br />communication. <br />Discussion: In response to a question from Vice President Shachner, Mayor George explained <br />how Lakewood’s financial share of the Bearcat is determined. It is articulated in a formula within <br />the Council of Governments agreement and the formula is based upon population and other <br />factors. She further explained that the funds will come out of the Police Department budget. <br />Councilmember Rader asked why the Bearcat was not included in the WestshoreEnforcement <br />Bureau’s (WEB) 2024 budget. <br />The Director of the Westshore Enforcement Bureau addressed the question, explaining that in the <br />past, this type of equipment was paid for through grants. However, after an extensive search, it <br />appears that these types of grants are no longer available. <br />In response to additional questions and concerns by Councilmember Rader, WEB Director and <br />Commander Smykowski shared additional details about the equipment. They stressed that the <br />equipment is a replacement for the prior Bearcat with basic upgrades and improvements intended <br />for law enforcement use; not military-type use. <br />Notingthat the purchase is out of step with normal protocols, Councilmember Rader stated that <br />he is not sure that he is comfortable supporting the purchase but will not attempt to dissuade <br />others from supporting it. <br />It was clarified that the Bearcat is currently housed in Lakewood, as the new one will be. <br />8 <br /> <br /> <br />