No police layoffs? Or just another budget fight?

In Ms. Glenn's story, the Pat(Jim) Morris made some more dumb comments...hopefully the ctizens will hld him accountable for ruining this city!

Pat Morris said, "Instead of working together in a time of great need, they recommended their members reject any concessions and hosted a job fair to encourage our police officers to leave the department," Morris said. "These actions have negatively affected both our community and our rank-and-file police officers."

Two things strike me with this statement Pat, first of all, we Police Officers take care of one another in a time of need, unlike you!

Let's take a trip back in time...last year, while YOU laid off city employees, YOU held a job fair too. YOUR job fair was for PAROLEES and other CONVICTED FELONS!!! Remember??? You, once again, did NOTHING for our city "family".

The job fair held by Police Officers, and for Police Officers was a gesture that you can't begin to fathom, since your loyalty lies solely with ensuring the well being of convicted felons and other folks that have been nothng but a drain on the social purse of society!

"Ding, Ding" you rag the bell, and the POA came out swinging, as I would expect from my Union! You do not deserve to associate yourself with the caliber of men and women that you put through mental hell with this gross practical joke you and Mr. Weinberg called LAYOFFS! I know Ashton Kutcher, and you're no Ashton Kutcher!!! We CAN'T be PUNK'D Pat!!!

Moving on to the other issue...I don't recall seeing you at th POA meeting. Our POA leaders explained what transpired in the meeting wth Mike Billdt (Can't cal him the Chief after TWO NO CONFIDENCE votes).

Rich and Travis did an excellent job explaining our options, and also explained that Mike had not called to tell them whether or not the City had accepted Mike and the POA's proposal, which was to include a "Zero layoff" clause. They gave it to us to vote on, and WE the MEMBERSHIP voted unanimously to reject the ever changing concession plan!

I am proud to see Rich, Travis, and our entire Board, whom you referred to as being adversarial, fighting you on our behalf! Those guys won't let you victimize us, like you let Mike Miller victimize those kids in your Operation Chickenhawk...errr..Phoenix program!!!

The bell has been rung mayor, and you've been on the ropes since the first "Ding". I hope Jimbo has the white towel ready...cause you ARE going to LOSE this fight!!!

WOW, 2 no confidence votes! I guess the POA thinks thats doing something. Wasn't the last one just a couple months ago? We heard your point then, and don't need to hear it again. Lets see if they take another vote next week if it turns up the same. The Chief is the Chief whether Mr ding ding thinks so or not. I know in a military, it is not up to the rank and file whether or not they get to chose who they think the commander is. Wake up cry babies. He is the CHIEF and maybe your attitude is part (yes only part), but a significant part of the problem in this city. Maybe the citizens have no confidence in our POA leadership!

If you don't have the confidence and respect of your troops, you can't be an effective leader. Billdt is disliked and or not respected by more than 90 percent of the 300+ men and women in law enforcement. The only person who loves him is the Mayor, and he is an uneffective leader.

As a recent wife, I have gotten the opportunity to watch my husband struggle through the application process, strive as hard as possible to complete a strenuous academy, and accomplish the position of protector, provider, and defender, for both myself and the City of San Bernardino. I attended his graduation, stood by as a proud wife during his swearing in ceremony, and adjusted to the difficult schedules that come along with being an Officer. We have put much on hold, including going on a honeymoon, because we knew that building this foundation to career that is satisfying on many angles is of high importance.

Chief, you shook my hand and looked me in the eyes when my husband got sworn in; you told me that you were proud to have him at your department. My husband was willing to take care of you and your department; he was willing to lay down his life to protect you and all of his newly found brothers at the department.
What you have now done is created a strong sense of insecurity within your entire department. You initially built up officers to be strong fighters who would defend their integrity and City to any extent. Well Chief, you have turned these officers against you and it is highly evident that nobody wants to stick around to see what might happen next.

My husband now holds a pink slip telling him that his last day with your department will be March 12th. Whether or not you now changed your mind, he still holds that letter and has done everything needed in order to ensure that he will transfer to a department that really is proud to have him.

How do you sleep at night knowing that you are putting so many officers in danger with burdening them with all of this and then throwing them out on the street. What you have done to these men and women is heartless and you have taken trust that will never be given back. You should really consider rethinking your accepting of a later retirement.

To Loving Wife,

I understand your concern and feelings but your anger and blame is misdirected. The sad thing about all this is it has maniefested into the hateful misinformed monster it has by an out of control POA leadership over the past couple years. These clowns have tried to run the PD and city since they ousted former POA president Filson. Now they are on good terms again. There is a behind the scenes story to that though.

Filson is the same guy who in the early nineties lead a vote of no confidence against then chief Dan Robbins and caused problems for A/C Harp. He is politically savvy and knows some power people but has an agenda. Could he be upset because he did not get his narcotics position back when the management went to great lengths to accomodate him when he asked to be taken out due to family issues?

Throw in the Desrochers and Lowes of the world and there is more fuel to the fire. These two have demanded Billdts head because they have big egos, are extremely stubborn, and did not like being disciplined for there own transgressions. They also screamed at POA meetings and demanded unjust action.

Lawhead and a couple other top POA people can not be trusted. They manufacture the vote of no confidence with slick means and misinformation to get the total set up they want. They were greatly unskilled when they came to power but now use different means to undermine the organization. Don't be surprised if they sacrifice the newest members of the department to save there promotions and claim the furloughs etc where avoided because of them. They will then blame Billdt. The only one on the POA with some sense is Mike Hudson but he will get run into the ground by the Lawheads, Schuelkes, and Birkes.

The current economic crisis is global. The city is facing a 9 billion dollar deficit. The POA has generally taken the position of not budging when everyone else in the city is giving things up. But yet they blame Billdt. Ludicrous to say the least. This does not bode well for the association in the eyes of the community. But, during many years the POA had to claw tooth and nail to get things. The overall expenditures for Operation Phoenix and the crime impact teams is minuscule compared to the overall budget of the city and PD. Yet these impact teams and the allocation of resources has had a direct impact in reducing crime the past few years. Action was demanded after Mynisha Crenshaw was killed and plans were adapted.

As you read the blogs and support Billdt receives, notice the venom and garbage that comes from others. You will see the, Ok Mitch or Ok Brian type stuff. There is always that 10% even in the PD. Couple that with the POA, politics, one sided information, and the flames of misguided actions grow and glow brighter.

Its unfortunate that Mayor er Chief I mean President Lawhead came to power with a couple others at the top of the POA. That along with a few disgruntled egomaniacs and internal non-issues (use of force)etc, blown out of proportion has fed into this upside down frenzy.

Hopefully, layoffs and furloughs won't happen. But one thing is certain these issues and problems are not Billdt or Mayor Morris generated. If the POA was smart they would work intelligently to address these issues but in the long run they could potentially get long term adverse situations because of their actions.

The guy above me is a snake oil salesman in the worst sense. Operation Phoenix is "miniscule" cost and directly reduced crime?? You gotta be kidding me.

The bottom line is that Billdt took the city's blank check and blew money on helicopters and overtime to the tune of MILLIONS, all the while adding new officers and swearing his allegiance to them while the fiscal economic crisis had already become clear to everybody.

Meanwhile, Billdt promotes dirt bags like Brad Lawrence in a show of loyalty while derailing the careers of Desrochers and Lowes because they spoke out when they saw wrongdoing.

Those are the facts.

Been there is absolutely right. This city has a POA with an agenda. Lets get Lawhead and the rest to step down as well as the Chief. Let's see if Lawhead and his buddies are willing to leave if the Chief does. Come on Lawhead; make a press release that you and your buddies will leave if the Chief does! Here is your truth challenge! You must take credit for a portion of ruining this department. Step up and step out!

To Head Scratching,

I read your response and you are very typical of a person who does not read things closely and is unaware of the real facts.

First of all the police department desperately wanted the helicopter and pushed for it. The POA had a big play in obtaining it because at the time the funds where available and they lobbied the people favorable to it at city hall. Its a good tool for the SBPD if the money is there. Accusing Billdt of taking MILLIONS and blowing it is down right assinine. The city council approved all this because they wanted crime to be reduced and more police presence on the streets, all supported by the POA.

The crime rate for once in SB is drastically down compared to the eighties and nineties BECAUSE the resources (money, equipment, manpower), was available. Crooks don't like a lot of cops on the street. The PD budget year in and year out is roughly 40 million. The overall amount spent on Operation Phoenix and overtime costs, (approved by council,promoted by POA and membership) is minuscule in comparison to the PD budget and total city budget. Get it?

In the budget committee meetings I don't believe anyone saw this fiscal clamity coming. Look around everyone is being affected. We here in California have a 42 billion deficet and now want to raise taxes and other fees. Yet, we spend over 12 billion a year on incarceration, education, and health care for illegal aliens. Figure that out. Add health care to illegals not incarcerated. If we did things right and enforced our border laws do you think we would be in this mess?

The administration was told to continue the hiring by the council so don't sit back and blame the police admin.

Desrochers and Lowes are two peas in the pod. They did drop the ball and were disciplined. There retaliatory antics and schemes have not stopped. Lawrence got promoted because he was on the list just like anyone else you could take issue with. Let the Lawrence thing play out in the courts. But isn't it ironic how the one laying out Lawrence is one who demands action from the POA because he was removed from his prestigious spot because he tried to do things his way and buck the system. Think theres an agenda or scheme to deflect blame or say, See there not treating me fairly compared to other people or past situations.

So, all I can say to you now is keep scratching and maybe you will eventually get it.

To Been THere,

You are a classic example of a sycophant who will bend over backward to defend wrongdoing.

To call me "asinine" (and misspell it while you're at it) for stating a simple fact shows the depths of your distortions.

The fact is that Billdt has been rewarded with a budget that is MILLIONS (actually, more than 10 million) higher than his predecessors, and with that money he has beefed up executive ranks, executive salaries, and stupid expenses like helicopters.

To blame the POA for the helicopter is preposterous. Billdt lobbied for it. Billdt took the proposal to the council. Billdt OWNS that waste of money all on his own!

In the last 3 years, Billdt and Morris have spent at least $10 million on overtime and Phoenix. To call that miniscule is just plain dishonest, Get it??

Desrochers didn't "drop the ball," he outed Lawrence for doing things that were approved of by Billdt. Illegal things. Unconstitutional things. The kinds of things that can cost the city millions in lawsuits. What Desrochers did or didn't do or his motivation doesn't matter one bit so stop talking about it. This is about Lawrence and the extremely serious allegations of what he was doing out there - and being rewarded for.

The only thing ironic about the Lawrence situation is that his inexcusable behavior earned him praise and promotion from Billdt. Then again, it's not ironic at all. It's common for unethical dirtbags to rise to the top and honest honchos like Desrochers and Lowes to get the shaft. That's how business is done in the Billdt era.

I'd suggest that you keep an open mind and maybe you'll get it. But that isn't going to happen. You just keep warm in Billdt and Morris' laps while they feed you puppy treats. Enjoy it while it lasts.

Head Scratcher,

Thank you for taking a stand against this "Been There" tyrant.

Can I get an "amen" ?

Head Scratcher, aren't you the one bending over backward to defend wrongdoing? Oh, wait, it's only wrong doing if it is your side of the story. Is that right? How about the wrong doing of the POA, Lawhead's personal agenda, and the rest of the POA leadership. It appears you are bending over backward to defend them which is an absolute JOKE, as is the POA of this City! By the way, the helicopter is a proven useful tool and no, it is not the budget problem focus of the city. In the big scheme of things, I think it relates to about 2.5 fireman or 3.5 Sergeant payscales. Seems like this is equal to a fairly small portion of the total bucket to me.

Whatta joke,

You brought up some valid points. You probably have to lay off this Head Scratcher guy though because he puts a nice spin to everything and doesn't have a clue.

The total expenditures he states is way off base and what was spent was approved by the council. As far as the helicopter goes of course Billdt wanted it. Many on the department did including POA leadership and they too lobbied certain council people for it. It was affordable at the time so luckily the PD got it.

Saying Desrochers and Lowes got shafted is nuts. They weren't liked in either of their positions Homicide and MET. They bucked the organization and were called on it in seperate matters.

As far as beefed up salaries every one benefited from charter 186 so blaming Billdt for having control of the budget and how the city approves expeditures is also misleading.

Just key in on the hatred, use of profanity, and it tells you a lot about the mindset off some. Also remember there is just no convincing some because they have an agenda and will twist and distort to fullfil there goals.

Having been involved with Operation Phoenix I can say that it is a total waste of time and money. Pat Morris did not support Operation Phoenix but left it to molder under the care of Glenn Baude and Kevin Hawkins - or somebody else, who knows.
Due to that lack of effort two little girls were molested by Mike Miller while LOTS of taxpayer dollars were spent on TV's, free food, and city employee overtime.
Did it lower crime? No....the residents of the area (which were mainly renters) weren't interested in changing their environment. The attempt to set up neighborhood watch was a laugh. The residents just wanted the free stuff.....when the free stuff went away they did too.
As for the Operation Phoenix Centers, sure kids attend. But it wasn't supported by the rank and file of the POA. It was touted as a Police Activities League but it wasn't - street cops weren't volunteering there. The kids were there because it was better than sitting on a street corner. There was nothing there that attempted to help them develop character. It was Babysitting 101 - and the staff wasn't even polite to the kids.
As a taxpayer I don't want my money wasted on that. I pay for my own childcare and so should the residents in the Operation Phoenix areas. But if it's free, they'll take it.

Today, (Tuesday, Feb 17, 2009), The or “our” new President signed onto law the much touted Democratic stimulus plan that is supposed to save our country from fall into the abyss. Many of the “experts” now say IF it works, it will show results 2 – 3 years out at best. The news says it is really worth about $1.14 Trillion but that could go higher too. Don’t forget that is our (your and mine) money we will have to repay somehow some day.

Also today, GM (47,000) and Chrysler (3,000) announced they will need about $21.6 Billion MORE to layoff these new 50,000 employees. Also the Governor of CA may or may not send out layoff notices to state employees. Just how many is TBD, but you can be assured it will be in the thousands. Also, there is a judge in San Francisco that is ordering the release of 67,000 prisoners. The P/O’s will really be busy now (as if they were not before).

What does this news tell each of us? If you are so wrapped up in yourself can you see it? Can you see that AMERICA is on its butt? Can you see it is affecting everyone? (Note: I was laid off 2 years ago and have been unable to find work myself).

It appears that there are select members of the SBPD who feel only they are being picked on and identified for layoffs. To those men and women, wake up and grow up. Stop pointing the finger unless you are pointing at yourself. YOU are not any better than anyone else who has or soon will lose their jobs. It is time to suck it up and get up and focus on YOUR individual tomorrow. If you have the magic solution to the dilemma the City finds itself (financially) I am sure there are 8 City leaders who would be happy to listen to YOUR plan on how to manage the City without layoffs and without the loss of City services to the general public. Come on, speak up!!

This “Chicken Little” attitude of running around screaming the sky is falling is not doing much to fix the problem. Remember, if you are not part of the solution, perhaps you are part of the problem. It is now time to focus on the whole of the issue and if that means you lose your job (like so many others) so be it, we must save the City. YOU were not selected because you did not do your job; we need your services now more than ever. If you like so many others, find it hard to find a job, perhaps you could volunteer as a reserve cop to ensure the community is still protected at the same level it was when you were a paid cop. If you gave of yourself one shift a week, I am sure it would help, it would help the city, its citizens and it will help you too! Think about it, instead of feeling sorry for yourself. You are no different than others who have been let go, with families and bills etc etc.

Bob...I can sympathize with your situation. I have had a number of friends that have been laid off in the last few months and have been unable to find work. However, you having no idea what is going on in the SBPD. Only some (rank and file) will be taking cuts. Everyone above that will be unaffected by the cuts, well except for maybe getting their cars taken away...boo hoo. So until you know the facts, you should probably keep your opinion to yourself.

So did people forget or not notice that the general unit (non sworn PD employees., library, parks and rec., city crews, city hall, and many more..) have already voted to take the 10% cut. We have stepped to the plate in an effort to try and save jobs. The economic times calls for it, look around. Every month that goes by is putting the city 3 million dollars more into the hole...where are they (city) going to make that up? On the backs of the general unit yet AGAIN?! I do agree this city has been irresponsible with it's spending and hiring and we shouldn't have to be in this predicament, there are cities out there who are not. Look at the county..thier deputies just voted on a 11.75 pay RAISE over 3 years, plus increased benefits, it goes to show that good management means everything. Don't wait for some 'silver bullet' from the state. Stop crying, save jobs. Take your 10% and walk away. Be happy you HAVE a job with good retirement and benefits there are tens of thousands of people out there who have it a whole lot worse...the POA is looking bad bad bad. BAD

San Bernardino is now paying the price not for just fiscal mismangement but how its done business for years. Unfortunately SB has always attracted the low lifes of society, gangs, and parolees. It is just like Compton, Oakland, Richmond. Its amazing that a city larger but yet so close (Riverside), can have a much lower crime rate and be more attractive to people. But the answer is right in front of everyone. Too bad addressing it might ruffle some feathers and create hostilities among some segments of society.

Granted the global economic situation does not help but people should stop getting caught up in the emotional side of this and look to work with officials. If the PD were to take a 10% reduction, make sure the POA leadership holds the city to re-instating that as soon as possible with no game playing.

I have to take exception to a lot of the misinformation that takes place when you read some of these blogs. Above, "On the inside" talks about how Operation Phoenix has not reduced crime. Thats malarky. Today in the paper Rich Lawhead talks about crime being reduced, having their foot on the throat of it, etc. This did not just happen overnight. It happened because of Op Phoenix and the crime impact teams that were put in place the last few years. Of course there were a couple unfortunate issues that arose but who expected that? To blast away on that is not responsible because the overall intent of programs was to change the environment and reduce crime. Homicides have been down and so have robberies along with other part 1 crimes.

But until SB changes its ways of doing business things will not change because you can not constantly have programs and continuously spend on crime programs. Crooks and undesirables only understand one thing. That is getting there butt kicked and going to jail but in todays liberal, touchy feely, think we can rehabiltate system that won't happen. So in towns like SB try to keep more cops on the street as the revolving door to the prisons and jails remain open.

One last unrelated comment. Joe Baca talks about the city holding on because money could be coming from this stimulus package to avoid layoffs. Maybe in the short term thats good. I would like to see Baca attack the massive illegal ilien problem that is occurring and the massive costs to the state of California. The amount of drugs being brought in is out of control. Hospitals and schools are overcrowded or closing down or having big financial trouble because of it. Just think if we had a controlled guest worker program with taxes paid and sent illegals back, you know common sense approaches we would not be in this predicament or its severity. Don't think he will do it though or he will back door it with some slick talk. It would not be politcally correct for him. Raising taxes is always easier.

Been there:
Baca is doing his very best to solve the illegal alien problem.
He wants to make them all citizens and then the problem is not due to illegals, but citizens!
See how simple it is to fix a problem.

S T,

Good Point. Forgot about that. Once the illegals are made citizens and given licenses and voting rights it plays right into the liberal platform and solves the issue. But I have to wonder how many others will get in and eventually create more havoc and problems. What happens when the population of our state gets to 50 or 60 million as projected. Infrastructer can't handle it. We already have water issues and building has been out of control. This will all just lead to chaos,riots,and civil disobedience. Like I mentioned earlier the costs of health care,education, incarceration for illegals is staggering. The amount of drugs brought across is staggering. Once you make exceptions to problems and issues and show indifference, eventually power is grabbed,groups are formed and then its harder to rectify the problems because the root of the problem has in itself established with smpathetic parts of society for starters.

There are only a handful of politicians out there who want to do whats necessary but I think you realize because of a few reasons they will be unable too. Stand by if the problems across the border escalate more or Mexico collapses. Hopefully the wall from here to eastern Texas is done and the border patrol is supported.

In rebuttal to: “To Bob said”

Sir, you are correct, I don't know except what is being pictured in these blogs and in the newspaper itself as to the on goings within the PD. However, the picture that is being painted is counter productive for all concerned. There appears to be no winners, only losers with the biggest losers being the taxpayers or citizens of SB of which I am one. If you are a member of the PD, it is time you reexamine who it is that you work for. It is me, the taxpayer of this City. Are you a resident or just one of the individuals who work here, collect your check and go home to another City?

Now that said, I do know that the rank and file of the PD has twice voted their dis-enhancement of the Chief of Police. That alone says volumes of what is ongoing within the PD. You no longer function effectively as a team as you are without a leader. With each walk of life there is, unless you walk with the individual, in his footsteps, you can only envision what it is like to be a Cop in SB or a fireman or a Councilman or Mayor or PD Chief or a City Attorney or a doctor at the County ER or a member of the military, whatever. We each have our cross to carry in our profession. Some are more public than others yet each is his/her own volunteered choice to become that cop or fireman etc. It is always easier to shoot holes in leadership than it is to bit the bullet and support it. You may think you have sight of the big picture that deals with the specific issue (in this case the City issues and the PD) but until you are one of the eight leaders or the PD Chief, you only think you know. Your tools to use if you are unhappy are limited to voting or leaving and seek the greener grass elsewhere. You either compound the problem or you join forces to fix it. With the PD, the picture painted in the media is a fractured organization. More effort is placed in working against one another (management/rank-in-file) than working together. You have lost sight of your employer and their needs, that being the taxpayer. Blind greed has overshadowed your common sense as you are more worried about yourself than those who you have sworn to serve. As such, the chaotic conditions today exist and they are all counter-productive. Based on what I know (admittedly that is not much) if I were King, I would systematically replace the entire management and leadership chain of the SBPD. Clean the slate, start over with dedicated focused individuals who place and demonstrate duty and honor first while serving the public/taxpayer.

Sir, I also know that this is an election year for some of the leadership of this City. I hope the voters can or will take the time to recall all the controversy that has surrounded these elected officials when it comes time to vote again. If ever there was a time for CHANGE and leadership in SB it is now or overdue. The PD Chief told the citizens he was retiring and that is what he should do ASAP. The Mayor should insist on it. I trust you are a registered SB voter (resident) and will cast your vote accordingly. If you are NOT a resident of SB, then you Sir have no right to complain about OUR City or how it is being run.

Lastly, with all due respect, I gave the greater part of my life ensuring the freedom of speech along with other rights granted by the Constitution of this country. What have you done? I defy you to tell me to forgo my right to voice my opinion where ever and however I deem it necessary. If what I say stings, so be it. If you are a City employee, then open your eyes to some constructive criticism that is long overdue. Unless you have been laid off and unemployed for 2+ years then and only then can you relate to my situation. Your laid off friends don’t come close with their “few months” of being without work nor it does not come close to the 30 months I have experienced. When YOU get there, let me know.

Now if what is currently ongoing within the PD is not what is correctly being portrayed in the media then YOU should step up to the plate and set the record straight, from A to Z! The voters and citizens of SB have a need to know. If you are not bold enough to bring light to this situation that you feel you know so well, then who will? If you are afraid of the politics associated with this issue, then what else are you afraid of…the truth? I refer back to my Chicken Little statement; we in SB have lots of individuals running around crying the sky is falling but can not or will not substantiate these (or your) cries with facts and specifics. Until someone does (YOU??) it is just noise. Nuff said!

It seems to me that 90% of the drama at the PD is an outgrowth of 90% of good having no respect for "their" chief?? Cut out the cancer (Billdt) and things will improve.

This is NOT THE TIME for this fight the POA is putting up, not when tens of thousands of californians and U.S. citiz. are getting layed off/out of work/wondering how to put food on thier table/heat thier houses. Here stands the mighty POA upset because what?...oh ya they STILL have JOBS but dont want to give up 10% for the greater good...good job POA! The "little people" (general unit) pulled together to take the 10% TO SAVE JOBS, and who is STILL going to get jobs cut? THE GENERAL UNIT!. and what is the POA doing? whinning and crying. Police officers DO have a job that put them in danger everyday we all get it!!...but right now it's time for them to look past thier noses and at the bigger picture. The POA looks like a bunch of A$$'s to the rest of us. Good job guys....hope the PR firm you hired for Lawhead can work wonders! Loyalty up/loyalty down right?....only when it applies to the badge I guess...

In reading your comments above you have good points. However, as the wife of a SBPD officer I took offense to the fact that you commented most officers just work there, collect a check and go home to another city. Think of it from the officers point of view.

Let me explain why - have you ever been eating at a restaurant with your family (including young children) and you see someone you arrested walk in? Do you know the tense feelings that go through the officers head. Here is someone who hates him and he sees his wife and children. It is a scary feeling. Have you ever been out with your family and been approached by someone you arrested? It does not sit well with the officer to put his family in jeopardy.

That is why each day after my husbands shift he heads home to another city. For the safety of his family. For once the officers put their families first and their safety. And by that I mean if there is an emergency going on in the city or surrounding areas (hense the 2003 fires) my husband didn't get to sit with me and worry about out home, family or belongings. He had to leave and go to work. Your right that is a life he chose and one I chose by marrying him.

However, I can say by moving us to another city it is his way of protecting his family. And looking out after us.

Thank you for your support of the PD. I just wanted to clarify.

To the SBPD Wife;

Many thanks for your thoughts. They have merit and I respect your opinion and your husband’s efforts to safeguard his (your) family. However, please do not ever think that living elsewhere will protect you. The undesirable elements of our society (the bad guys) DO NOT all live in San Bernardino (if you can believe that) many just get caught here. They reside in many of the surrounding cities to include Yucaipa to Rancho Cucamonga. The chances of encountering one of these individuals can happen anywhere…at the stoplight at the corner or the parking lot at Staters. That is just one reason your husband can (and should) carry his badge and gun always. It goes with the territory.

Now, that said, we have departed from the original thrust of all this exchange…the SBPD being above the issues that are affecting EVERY employee of “OUR” City. Each section from the F/D to the blue-collar or trades were asked and expected to give. The PD is no better and should NOT be exempted, they are expected to do what is asked of them regardless. Their homes or car payments, family meals, doctor bills etc are all the same as the F/D or Parks employee’s. This is not something that has been asked of JUST the P/D but it is the P/D who think they are above sacrifice, and that is where they and the POA are flat out wrong! If they can not come to the table as have every other section within SB City has, then the political leaders need to act for them. It is just that simple. They are not the only ones doing a sometimes thankless job in this City. Their lofty perch is no higher than others. Each has a (as you have said) chosen job to do. You went into this profession with your eyes open. Just as every member of the military and they do what they are asked to do…without question, without hesitation. Bottom line…the SBPD and POA need to appear at the Council meeting tonight and offer up whatever is being requested of them. This problem (SB City’s financial dilemma) is much bigger than the PD/POA, the City or the State. Last I looked it is a national problem and hundreds of thousands of AMERICANS are or will be impacted. It is time the SBPD joins the society and does their part NOW! Or…offer up an immediate solution that will encompass every City employee EVENLY across the board. It is just that simple.

Thank you for your comments and I understand what you are saying and appreciate your point of view. And trust me I completely understand crime is everywhere - however, my husbands has a slighter chance of running into someone he has dealt with in the past in our city vs. San Bernardino. It is just the way it is unfortunately.

I understand that our POA has their own agenda and it is not necessarily correct. I do believe they need to give a little also. But I also believe the the city needs to make all PD not just the officers take a cut. During all this admin has been sitting in their offices not saying a word - nothing at all - not even I'm sorry. They are keeping quiet because they know they will not be affected. Maybe the officers could take this better if it was being fairly distributed to the whole department and not just the guys who go out on the streets everyday.

Admin should be ashamed of themselved. They hide in their office ashamed to show any kind of support or sympathy to their officers and what this is going to do to their families.

The nation can go ahead and about 250 more people to the economic problems and foreclosures because this will surely cripple families in the PD. All the while admin sits in their homes (not in San Bernardino I can assure you) and rests easy. Their wives are not going to feel any cuts or their children see their parents worry. That sits solely on their shoulders what they have done to the many families this is going to affect.

Thank you for your point of view and concerns.

PD Wife:

Try as I may to stay objective and open minded during our discussion, I stumble now and then. Please excuse me. I do enjoy learning from your point of view. You said your husband elected to NOT live in SB due to the chance of meeting one of his customers as you enjoy a family dine-out. Now you say there is a greater chance of meeting a select individual in “your city”. So again, why are not you living in SB as the rest of us who are trying to pull SB out of the abyss and back to the level of All America’s City that it once was??

About having the SB City identify who within the PD (the admin team members) will take their portion of the expected layoffs, I share this; From where I sit and based on my management/leadership background, that is NOT for the City to decide. It is for the Management Team of the PD to identify those who will be affected. I say the management team which equates to the Sergeants and above. If you read the last (or first listed) entry today in the SB Now Blog, (entitled Senior Management Cuts) you will see that the senior level of the City Team is saying good-bye to 4 Director level employees. There is a lot of valuable corporate knowledge fixing to walk away when they are desperately needed to run this City. It is they who are holding SB together, NOT the executive (elected) level. Sadly, the City’s weakest link in the management/leadership chain is at the top. The November elections will fix that we assume if we can just hold on that long. Remember, the City has next year’s budget to develop and approve in four months (July/09). It is only going to get worse before it gets better!

Again, the PD has demonstrated a lack of faith in the Chief. I as an outside observer feel this is nothing more than a political chess game within the PD, but what do I know? However, it has impacted the entire department just as the POA has…all negatively. I have been associated with organizations where the top individual, laid himself off for the betterment of the company which must always come first. That kind of logic is not found in the PD at any level…and that is a big part of what is impacting the PD as a whole. I see a bunch of individualists…lots of “me and I”, with very little “we and us”.

You touched on the POA having their own agenda. That is exactly what is destroying the SBPD from the core out. This is no time for private or personal agenda’s. If that is truly the case (and I don’t doubt you…it is I have no way of knowing) then the leadership of the POA should turn in their gun and shield and go else where ASAP. They are in no way effectively looking after the wellbeing of the rank and file officers. They have lost their focus, forgot their mission. The remainder of the PD membership should demand this action themselves. That could be the first who are identified to the City Council of those being let go. This is an opportunity to clean house of the counter productive politics that appear to be eroding the PD from within. I feel sure there are those who can see through clearer eyes what has or needs to be done for the PD to regain the respect of the people who pay their salaries and whom they are sworn to serve. The Chief is leaving, and I am sure there is an Asst Chief within the SBPD that is more than capable of providing leadership and direction to the SBPD. Operating above the good-old-boy politics with the ability to make the difficult decisions that MUST be made NOW and work WITH the City Council to help bridge these difficult times. The leaders within the PD must act now, remembering this is not about politics or agendas, it is about survival of the PD itself and of the City ability to function. Without such immediate action now, the next step could be something no one in the entire PD will like. Remember, it is survival. Who or where are the needed 10% that will unfortunately have to join the others the City is having to say good-bye to. The PD “team” must decide. Thanks…

PS: Sorry, if I allowed my passion for SB to show. Please remember, this is MY city, MY town and has been for a very, very, long time. I know what it once was, and I believe in what it can be again. It all begins with true top level leadership and management skills that have been lacking for a long time.

to restate reader Bob comments here in:
Reader Bob said:
PD Wife:

Try as I may to stay objective and open minded during our discussion, I stumble now and then. Please excuse me. I do enjoy learning from your point of view. You said your husband elected to NOT live in SB due to the chance of meeting one of his customers as you enjoy a family dine-out. Now you say there is a greater chance of meeting a select individual in “your city”. So again, why are not you living in SB as the rest of us who are trying to pull SB out of the abyss and back to the level of All America’s City that it once was??

READER BOB, You are too old school. I am not PD and I realize the delimna that law enforcement face as PD wife states. The days of small town PD residing in same are gone. Her points are very well taken and you have missed her and her husband's deep concern for their fmaily. You have the talking sense of "let us tax you that earn your money here". Sounds kind of like a city tax supporter at any cost.
You do make some other very fine points ( for which I will not embark on for now), and I would hope you can see thru the eyes of this heart felt explanation PD wife has expressed. We do have some Pd living here in Berdoo, but would you also have the other agency officers residing here from LA, Riverside, SanDiego and Orange counties then leave here for parts unknown, as they feel safe here as PD wife does where she and her husband have chosen to reside?
I know you can see this and trust you have the ability and heart to see this. Your other comments show that in print.

Just for some clarification the PMA or Police Management Association agreed sometime back to take a 10% paycut and do their part. The misinformation out there about only Sgts and below being effected is untrue. This belief that the PMA is all about themselves and doing nothing to help is coming from those totally ignorant to the facts or being intentionally perpetuated to create more controversy for the administration. But that has been part of the master plan all along and the person above is right as far as his analysis that the POA leadership lost there focus long ago.

I was raised to believe that government employees are servants of the people, that includes law enforcement. As servants of the people, government employees are expected to act for the greater good. It seems to me that the POA is only acting on behalf of their own self interest. They state that they would agree to 10% concessions but only if their demands were met. Watching the council meeting on Thursday evening the POA demands are far greater than any other bargaining unit asked for and completely unreasonable. From where I stand the POA is not acting as good public servants but rather "what's in it for me". This budget crisis does not only affect the employees of this city but every citizen in this city. It is time the POA thought of the greater good and remembered that they are public servants. Although I agree they have difficult jobs, they chose those jobs freely and are compensated well for what they do. As individuals they are no better or more important than any other individual in this city or on this earth, and it might be a good time to remember that.

After the councils decision last night to take 10% from the officers I told my husband as he just left for his shift - "Bye, love you and be safe. Oh Yeah - do 10% less today!"

Sadly enough that is how I feel. The city and POA let my husband and the fellow officers down. I think it is time for a whole new admin - and new POA!

I wonder how many guys called in today just because the morale is down. I wanted my husband too - but because of his oath he wouldn't. How can they go to work knowing they have a city and POA who don't support them but both support their own agenda! Shame on all of you, Mayor, city manager, chief, admin and yes POA!

I can't imagine how those officers feel today walking around that station or patrolling the city! I feel for each and every one of them. As I cried for them last night, for them, their families and my own!

I will work diligently to help my husband find another job at a different agency. He has nothing to lose as he is low on the totem pole anyways - so why stay in San Bernardino.

Bildt and Kimball you should help ease the pain of these officers and do the right thing and step down immediatley as you originally promised. However, the same should be said of the current POA officers. Let them start fresh and try to recover from this. I don't know how you can walk the halls knowing you have lost the respect of the same men and women (and their families) you are supposed to support!

Its a sad day at SBPD today!

Recognizing What Is Right or Good for SB Who’s Time May Have Come

Through-out American history as our country grew matured and became an industrial giant, there has been a love/hate affair with organized labor (Unions). In the early days, many companies became totally focused on the bottom line…cost. Employee welfare was not an issue. The companies provided everything, from doctors, to homes, shops for staples. Unions came about to try to rectify untold cases of abuse to the employees. They, the unions were needed. They helped refocus companies and management to realize the greatest commodity was not their product but it was the employees that made these products or companies what they were. Overtime, management got wiser and unions got stronger. Both sides never mastered the art of hearing and listening and as a result some very good companies have folded as a direct result of union actions and their refusal to understand that the company is not in business for the union. Often times in the last 30 years, unions have shot themselves in the foot with their headstrong demands that could not be met and as a result it became a lose/lose situation, the company went out of business and the union employees along with everyone else, lost their jobs.

The question of today has to be now asked. Have select unions gotten too big for themselves? Has their leadership forgotten how to fairly and sanely bargain for the rank and file and not solely to make or prove a point or to hurt management or teach them a lesson?

The union’s role is not to dictate, demand or make management decisions of those who are charged with managing or leading the company (or city). In some union/company environments, the union (representative) is ALLOWED to sit and witness some of the management processes. They have No voice, No vote, they only observe. These are just some of managements attempt to institute team building.

Now let’s look at what appears to be underway in the City of SB. Again, this is from an outsider who has NOT experienced any meetings where the City Leadership and the Union Leadership have tried to work out their differences. What is known is what has appeared over the course of years in the local newspapers (stories and articles) and with talks with off duty PD officers. If this smacks close to the truth, if you do not agree that is your right and it is respected. Here is my take…Joe citizen and taxpayer who, by the way pays the salaries of all involved, City Management, P/D and it’s management and yes, the P/D officers and their union representatives…assuming they are still PD officers.

The City of SB, like so many local and State Governmental agencies are in deep financial hardships. During these times some necessary but very hard decisions MUST be made. These decisions impact the City’s customer big time…the citizen/voter. Services that were nice to have and became the norm have to be cut back or eliminated altogether. No one likes to see this form of regression but if the money is not there or if the costs are greater than the available money, these decisions become necessary. This includes regrettably saying good-bye to very talented valued team members. Trying to be fair and equal is much tougher than it appears. The unions have worked with management to establish pecking orders or seniority lists. Most everyone accepts this as fair. However, the union has NO right or say who within the management structure of the City or any company must go. This includes the Chief of the PD. That decision belongs to the Mayor and/or the Council. Management is NOT part of the union or its membership and if the union tries to demand or intimidate or influence these decisions they, the union leadership is totally out of line. It can quickly become an example of the union losing its focus of it true mission and reflects that the union leadership has gotten too big and assumed powerful. They are no longer good for the union team (rank and file) or for the City.

The City of SB has (as reflected in the media) tried many creative and different approaches to get the PD to recognize the financial dilemma the City are currently in without success. The PD has yet to offer up their slice of the pie without strings or demands as other City Departments have. What they have offered or expected has their imposed strings attached that dictate policy or to intimidate management decisions that are totally out of line. All the while, the clock is ticking and the costs to the City are mounting at an alarming rate as a result of these PD Union tactics.

Now according to the City Attorney, there stands a chance this issue will be shuffled into the courts that will further delay finding a workable solution and expand or increase costs to the City where there is no money. Again, this is unacceptable and must not be allowed to happen.

There is a solution however. Unpopular as it would be to those who would be impacted, they have only themselves and their Union leadership to thank. They themselves can quickly resolve this matter or they can continue to exercise their power struggle with the City trying to influence and manage the City to meet their (Union) agenda.

The solution is to contact the County of San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department and request they prepare a proposal to assume the SBPD requirements and oblations for the City of SB. Just like you find in the Cities of Yucaipa and Rancho Cucamonga as well as others too. If their proposal comes close to what the PD is currently costing the City then the Mayor and Council should seriously consider placing this solution before the voters of SB. By the way, the Sheriff comes with its own aviation department to include a helicopter or two. This action would also purge the city of this long ongoing battle with the PD (Union) and allow for the redirection of the time devoted to these types of matters to be devoted to finding positive productive solutions geared at returning SB to financial solvency. City Leadership does not have the time or money to devote to this counterproductive undermining long ongoing relationship with the PD (Union) that has torn the City apart. When any member (s) of an agency gets to the point in their career where they think they are so important they can’t be replaced, it is time for replacement to occur ASAP. You have outlived your usefulness where you are, it is time to move on.

Again, this is a matter of survival. This is a management type decision based on what is BEST FOR THE CITY OF SB, not the PD Union! The City can and would function without the PD (union’s) influence and it would be expected that the Sheriff would solicit those PD personnel/officers who are wanting to be members of a organization that demonstrates pride and wellbeing for the City of SB and not try to structure or intimidate City Management. A long sought win/win situation for the citizens and voters of SB. Success and doing what is right/correct for the City is not always based on popularity.

Well Reader Bob,
If I could format my comment to you on the preceeding, I woud put it in caps and 32 print!
It would say:

AMEN!

As one who has been in major management, I know from where you speak. You are very correct. You have correctly identified both sides and their faults.
"Good write sir."
I am sure their are some who will not see your even- handedness in these last comments. And as you say, that is their right .
I think you should submit this to "Op-Ed".

To Reader Bob,

I totally agree with you , The city of Rancho Cucamonga is well staffed with Deputies of the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department. I think that the city of San Bernardino would be able to afford to pay the County enough for good staffing and still save money. I think the city needs to seriously look at that option.

To Reader Bob, You obviously dont keep up on current events. The Sheriff Deputies just signed a new contract that gives them a 11% raise over three years bringing them in line with SBPD pay.
And you're right they do a good job of patrolling cities like rancho Cucamonga which only has 1/3 the population of San Bernardino.What you dont seem to realize is those cities have a good tax base and a solid working population. Bob where do you think you are going to find 300+ deputies to work the City Of SB. Do you think the Sheriff and Mayor Morris are dummies. It would take millions of dollars to take over the city. When Rialto asked for a proposal the Sheriff admitted he would not be able to provide the same current service.
Bob you really seem as frustrated as a lot of the sworn and civilians who work hards at the SBPD and want all the personal attacks and bickering to be over. Believe me there are several who think all thia public fighting are a real waste of time. I'll tell you this much i've learned recently. When times get tough it's dog eat dog in San Bernardino and it really is a rudderless ship at the SBPD. Thanks for your time.

For Sickened…

Sir,

Thanks for your viewpoint. I am learning a lot about the SBPD as this issue is being kicked around by various individuals. Please know that I glean my information from the SUN articles or these blog pages and an occasional discussion with random PD personal. All of what I say or share are just my thoughts or opinion as a voter/taxpayer in SB. And yes, you are correct the personal attacks you mention and such have AGAIN driven a wedge between City Leadership and the PD or should I say POA. It is completely counterproductive for all concerned. Not discounting the fact that the POA does not dictate policy to the City Leadership. Although they try they are totally out of line by doing so.

You failed to mention that the City of SB is broke. Those who are elected to lead and direct our City are trying very hard to overcome a desperate financial situation and keep our City functioning as best as possible. I have yet to see any suggested ideas on how to fairly and evenly spread available monies across all the different organizations within the City whole, coming from the POA. They have however, offered contempt and what could easily be taken as blackmail. (They will endorse/support a PD cutback but ONLY if they can say who is or who is not in charge of the PD). That is not their call and it will never be in my book. If the POA wants that form of power, this is an election year for the Mayor’s job, one of the POA representatives should get in line and declare his candidacy. Until then they should stop the games they are playing at the expense of the PD rank and file as well as the citizens of SB, and support the Mayor and Council as they try to do the impossible (lead the City with little to no funds). They are NOT in the management structure of the City and they need to fully understand and accept this and get back to assisting the PD and leave the running of this City to those whose job it is.

Now about the Sheriff and that suggestion. I would expect the SBSD would hire 98% of the SBPD personnel immediately. Also, all the assets (weapons, vehicles, ect.) now belonging to the City/PD would transfer to the SBSD. Some officers would elect not to make the move for personal reasons. With other PD agencies experiencing the same funding and staffing issues as SB, I would expect to see a line of applicants wanting to go to work ASAP if slots are available and funded. Additionally, should this move become necessary I would expect there will be those who will not be hired as they have lost sight of being a PD officer and their focus is now elsewhere. I still think this idea should be explored by those who are much more knowledgeable than I.

About the pay raise recently enjoyed by the SBSD. They are very lucky the SB County is run much differently and they have the funds available to be able to reward their employees now when others have to suffer cutbacks. I am sure the 11% is well earned based on the jobs they do.

The bottom line here is simply this. The SBPD has some very big internal problems that have gone very public and now have become a distracter to the PD doing their jobs as effectively as they could. Please understand than no elected official of SB caused these problems. However, there are two separate courses of action that can be taken to effectively deal/resolve these internal issues. 1st, the SB Mayor is working to find a replacement for the Chief of the PD. That is his job, NOT the POA. How much clearer can that be stated? 2nd, or next, the PD rank and file needs to ensure who they elect as their representatives (POA officials) are best for the officers in uniform and also for the City itself. There is some vast room for improvement there. The rank and file must come to terms with this matter and act positively instead of continuing with this counterproductive political attempt to operate out of scope of their charter. Again, leave running the City of SB to those whose job it is.

As an outsider, I would venture to say the troops of the SBPD are not a happy bunch. Moral can not be very high and this can not be attributed to one person. There is a group of fine leaders within the PD of all ranks that impact the overall moral issue. Good leadership is not a gift, it comes with experience and heart. Leaders are not born, they are molded and shaped, taught and supported. Lose either and you have what is ongoing today in the SBPD. Remember, the Mayor is working on his end to meet his responsibility (find a new Chief). When this individual is found, he should be supported 110% by every member of the PD as his job will be unbelievable…doing the impossible with big limitations (funding). The finding of a new Chief is a work in progress, we all see that. The track record of the POA has been to lightly support the Chief for no more than two years and then try to replace him. That has to stop. What is missing is the demonstrated necessary support of the POA to the rank and file and to the City Leadership of SB. When will that be demonstrated?

There has always been a problem in the SBPD with the people that are elected as POA presidents. It seems that the Presidents are always the ones with the personal agendas and are always a member of a clique. We have had good people run for president in the past, but the ones that don't seem to have their own personal agendas don't win the popularity contest. The presidents are usually two faced, when it is to their benefit they will bend over backwards for admin behind our backs and when its not, they will buck admin.

For In Blue:

Sir... If this is as you say and it is or has been a known for many years, why haven't the rank and file recognized it for what it is and done something about. Who else can fix this internal problem if not the membership itself? Accepting the status quo is never going to correct this situation. Please help me understand.