Discussion Item 5a
STAFF REPORT
City Council Discussion Item
DATE: December 18, 2023
TO: Honorable Mayor and Council Members
FROM: Casey J. Day, Chief of Police
THROUGH: Merritt Perry, City Manager
SUBJECT: Police Chief Training at the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy #289
Recommendation:
Discuss the Police Chief’s participation in the FBI National Academy, scheduled to take place in Quantico, Virginia, from January 5th to March 14th, 2024.
Executive Summary:
Chief Day has been chosen to participate in the 289th class of the FBI National Academy, renowned globally as a leading law enforcement training program. This opportunity will provide a valuable platform for Chief Day to bring innovative executive management and leadership concepts back to the City of Fortuna. Furthermore, it will enable the integration of cutting-edge law enforcement strategies within our community. The National Academy, serving as the pinnacle of executive formalized training, will also facilitate Chief Day's exchange of knowledge and experiences with police executives nationwide.
The curriculum for the program includes topics such as Managing the Law Enforcement Image, Leadership in Advanced Investigative Strategies for Violent Crime, Emerging Essentials for Law Enforcement Executives, Critical Incident Leadership for Executives (including Emerging Crisis Negotiation Techniques), Organizational Wellness, and Advanced Behavioral Science.
Chief Day's past executive courses, such as P.O.S.T. Command College, Executive Development Course, and Graduate Studies in Criminal Justice, highlight his proven ability to excel in demanding and academically rigorous programs.
Chief Day has support for his attendance from both the Fortuna Police Employees’ Association and the police department’s Command Staff and was provided with the attached letter of support.
The City Manager also supports Chief Day’s attendance.
Lieutenant Eberhardt, will act as the Acting Chief during this timeframe, ensuring continuity of operations during Chief Day’s absence. Regular check-ins and remote office hours with staff will be scheduled by the Chief as needed. Lieutenant Eberhardt and Sergeant Phinney will be responsible for tasks related to the police facility construction project and planning for the transition, which is expected to take place after Chief Day returns.
Discussion Item 5a
City's Travel Policy:
The City’s travel policy authorizes the City Manager and the Police Chief to approve out-of-state trainings and travel on a case-by-case basis. The purpose of this discussion is to gauge the level of support from the City Council for Chief Day’s attendance at the FBI National Academy.
Fiscal Impact:
The FBI covers most training expenses, including flights, tuition, food, and lodging. However, there are additional costs, including mandatory uniforms, transportation, and meals on the weekends.
These costs, may be up to $5000.00 and will be covered by the department's current travel and training budget, and the chief's contingency. No additional budget is being requested for the Chief’s attendance at the academy.
Recommended Council Action:
Discuss the Chief’s attendance at the FBI National Academy - Session 289.