BP initiative on the horizon

After all that debate over the number of verifiable signatures submitted for a proposed public safety initiative in Baldwin Park, the city and the Police Department have finally reached common ground.

The Baldwin Park Police Association submitted nearly 5,000 signatures to the City Clerk’s office several weeks back for a proposed ballot measure that would essentially protect officers’ pay.

But there was some debate over how many of the signatures could actually be verified with the county. After several weeks of back and forth between the BPOA and the city, the matter has been resolved.

The City Clerk has confirmed the BPOA has submitted verified signatures for more than 10 percent of the city’s registered voter base, meaning the initiative can qualify for the November 2009 ballot.

Tonight, the council will decide whether to just accept the initiative, place it on the Nov. 3, 2009 ballot, or ask for a report laying out the possible effects and impacts of the initiative.

City staff members are suggesting the latter.