DEPARTMENT: Police Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD: William P. McManus, Chief of Police
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT: Proposed Student Housing Safety Initiative
SUMMARY:
Discussion of proposed student housing safety initiative as requested by Councilman Pelaez
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
On June 12, 2019, Councilman Pelaez submitted a Council Consideration Request (CCR) requesting that City staff develop options to enhance protection and security to tenants at apartment complexes surrounding universities and college campuses. Of particular interest is the coordination of services between the SAPD, university law enforcement and apartment management to reduce the likelihood of criminal activity. The CCR also identifies the creation of minimum standards for apartments related to security cameras and archiving of recorded video, entry gate maintenance and lighting in parking lots and common areas to promote student safety.
SAPD Coordination with UTSA
In late June and July, the SAPD met with UTSA Police Chief Gerald Lewis and representatives from UTSA to discuss concerns associated with criminal activity at the student housing complexes immediately surrounding the 1604 Campus. While the discussion initially focused on the isolated crimes that have occurred, it was determined that the development of a comprehensive strategy between the SAPD, UTSA PD and apartment complex managers would minimize the likelihood of victimization for student tenants and enhance response to reported criminal activity .
It is important to note that area SAPD SAFFE officers have been actively working with the UTSA PD, students and area apartment complex management over the last several years to share information on available programs and services designed to promote public safety.
As a result of these meetings SAPD and UTSA agreed to the following three-pronged strategy to ensure student safety throughout the year:
* Parent/Student Interaction
* Move-in D...
Click here for full text