ITEM 5.
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT
SEPTEMBER 14, 2026 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
ITEM: REVIEW AND PROVIDE DIRECTION ON CITY
COUNCIL CHAMBERS SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS
RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Resolution to Provide Direction for City Council Chambers Safety Improvements
SUMMARY:
The City Council has expressed interest in reviewing security enhancements for Council Chambers. City Hall currently operates with multiple existing safety and access control measures in place, including controlled access to staff areas, secured internal access points, and operational law enforcement presence during City Council meetings. As public facility security practices continue to evolve, staff have evaluated several enhancement options intended to build upon current safeguards while preserving public accessibility, customer service, and operational efficiency. Staff is presenting options as detailed below for Council consideration.
BACKGROUND:
City of Lathrop City HaII was originally constructed in 2005 and underwent remodeling improvements in 2021. Those projects focused on facility modernization, customer service functionality, and general building improvements consistent with the operational priorities at the time.
The facility currently incorporates a number of practical safety features, including restricted staff areas, electronic access controls, and operational staffing support during public meetings.
As standards and best practices for public building security continue to advance, staff reviewed opportunities to further enhance access management, employee safety, and visitor screening in a manner consistent with the City' s commitment to maintaining a safe, professional, and welcoming civic environment.
At the May 11, 2026, Council meeting, Council provided staff with direction to move forward with selected improvements to the lobby of City Hall, including safety glass and increasing controlled access to staff -only areas. Additionally, Council provided feedback for additional options for safety improvements for Council Chambers.
At subsequent Council meetings, Staff has presented multiple options to Council for consideration. Based on the feedback provided, the following options for Council Chambers are presented for Council review and consideration:
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT
SEPTEMBER 14, 2026 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS SECURITY
IMPROVEMENTS
PAGE 2
OPTION 1: Law Enforcement Personnel and K9 Officer Presence at Council Meetings
Currently, when staffing levels permit, law enforcement personnel are stationed at the entrance to the Council Chambers to monitor public access and meetings. Council feedback suggested that consistent attendance by law enforcement personnel, specifically, a K9 handler and their K9 officer, would provide an added layer of security to Council meetings.
Lathrop Police Department is currently providing law enforcement personnel for Council meetings when staffing levels permit. When available, a K9 officer is assigned to overtime. Adding additional law enforcement personnel, in addition to current services, increases overtime costs. Overtime cost is estimate at $ 165. 04 per hour, per officer. This cost can vary based on personnel actually assigned.
The challenges of Option 1 are that K9 law enforcement personnel are limited, and Lathrop Police Department staff may not be able to guarantee a K9 officer at every Council meeting. Additionally, each K9 is trained for a specific purpose or purposes and all Lathrop Police Department K9' s may not be suited to respond to all threats or violations of safety. Minimum staffing requirements are prioritized when personnel are limited.
This option is the least invasive to the public and most cost- effective. Overtime cost is estimated at $ 165. 04 per hour, per officer. Estimated ongoing costs for overtime is approximately $ 1, 500. 0 per meeting. Actual costs will vary based on personnel assigned and length of the meeting.
OPTION 2: Hand -Held (" Wand") Screening
Option 2 would include the use of a hand-eld ("wand") metal detector for screening upon entrance to Council Chambers. Hand- held screening provides enhanced detection accuracy and adjustable sensitivity, while portable and cost- effective.
This option can be monitored and administered by law enforcement staff to avoid increases in staffing costs. However, use of law enforcement personnel accompanied by a K9 officer is not recommended without additional sworn personnel to ensure proper K9 handling during the screening process. Two ( 2) additional law enforcement personnel are recommended with Option 2.
Option 2 presents additional challenges, including the potential for prolonged entry into Council meetings. This option is also slightly more invasive for meeting attendees.
CITY MANAGER' SREPORT
SEPTEMBER 14, 2026 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS SECURITY
IMPROVEMENTS
PAGE 3
This option is also cost- effective with hand-eld detectors ranging in cost from 200. 00 to $ 500. 00 per detector. Hand- held detectors require minimal training to operate effectively. Overtime costs are estimated at $ 165. 04 per hour, per officer.
Actual costs vary based on personnel assigned. Total costs are estimated at 1, 000. with ongoing costs for overtime at approximately $ 1, 500. 0per meeting.
Actual costs will vary based on personnel assigned and length of the meeting.
A draft related screening policy specific to this option is provided. Should Council select Option 2, the draft policy will be revised and brought to Council for final approval.
OPTION 3: Mobile Walk -Through Metal Detector and Secondary Hand - Held Wand") Screening
This option includes a mobile metal detector to be positioned inside the double -door public entrance to Council Chambers and operated by Lathrop Police Department personnel assigned to Council meetings. Secondary hand-eld screening would be used in the event the metal detector alerted staff to a prohibited item. Two additional law enforcement personnel are recommended for option 3.
A mobile metal detector provides additional security while limiting extensive improvements to the entrance and Council Chambers. It can be stored when not in use and is mobile to be used at other events, if needed.
This option requires a slightly larger initial cost and ongoing overtime cost for added Law Enforcement personnel. A mobile metal detector can range in cost from $ 5, 000 to $ 10, 000, depending on the model and features. Overtime costs are estimated at 165. 04 per hour, per officer. Actual costs vary based on personnel assigned. Total costs are estimated at $ 10, 000. with ongoing costs for overtime at approximately 1, 500. 0per meeting. Actual costs will vary based on personnel assigned and length of the meeting.
A draft related screening policy specific to this option is provided. Should Council select Option 3, the draft policy will be revised and brought to Council for final approval.
OPTION 4: Walk -Through Metal Detector, Bag Screening, and Secondary Hand -Held (" Wand") Screening
This option combines x- ray style bag screening, walk- through metal detector screening, and the option for secondary screening using a hand-eld, wand -style metal detector to investigate alerts from the walk- through detector.
Under this option, extensive improvements would be made to the Council Chambers lobby area and entrance to include screening equipment.. Option 3 can also potentially
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT
SEPTEMBER 14, 2026 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS SECURITY
IMPROVEMENTS
PAGE 4
delay entry to public meetings but would provide the most effective detection of prohibited items, although at a much higher cost. Scanning equipment pricing can vary widely based on size, capacity, and features, with additional costs for shipping, installation, and necessary facility improvements, as well as possible additional staffing costs. Staff estimates that this option could range from $ 15, 000 to $ 100, 00 for total improvements. These estimated costs are in addition to existing and potentially increased overtime personnel costs.
This option provides the most security during public meetings; however, has the potential for the most significant delays and would have the most fiscal impact.
A draft related screening policy specific to this option is provided. Should Council select Option 2, the draft policy will be revised and brought to Council for final approval.
Should this option be selected, Staff would return with actual costs and an implementation timeline.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Estimated costs for each option will vary based on equipment selection, final design, and installation requirements as outlined below:
Option 1 is expected to have the least fiscal impact, utilizing existing sworn personnel to monitor meetings. Overtime costs are estimated at $ 1, 500. 0 per meeting.
Option 2 is expected to have minimal costs for hand - weld metal detectors, at approximately $ 1, 000.O. Training for use is minimal, and additional overtime costs are expected at $ 1, 500. 0per meeting.
Option 3 is expected to have a slightly more significant fiscal impact, including one- time equipment purchases estimated at $ 10, 000.0. Overtime costs are estimated at $ 1, 500. 0per meeting.
Option 4 is expected to have the most significant fiscal impact, including onetime equipment purchases and potential facility improvements that could exceed $ 100, 00.. Overtime costs are estimated at $ 1, 500. 0per meeting.
These are rough estimates based on staff research. Upon Council direction, staff will return with detailed cost estimates, implementation timelines, potential funding options.
CITY MANAGER' S REPORT
SEPTEMBER 14, 2026 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS SECURITY
IMPROVEMENTS
ATTACHMENTS:
PAGE 5
A) Resolution to Provide Direction for City Council Chambers Safety Improvements B) Example of Hand - Held, Wand - Style Metal Detectors C) Example of Mobile Metal Detector
D) Rendering of Council Chambers with Option 3 Screening Improvements E) Draft Screening Policy
CITY MANAGER' SREPORT
SEPTEMBER 14, 2026 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS SECURITY
IMPROVEMENTS
APPROVALS:
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Finance iD' ector
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Date
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PAGE 6
Thomas Hedegard Date
Deputy City Manager
Salvador Navarrete Date
City Attorney
Foy 9•`( •Zolc.
Stephen J. Salvatore Date
City Manager
RESOLUTION NO. 26-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LATHROP TO
PROVIDE DIRECTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS SAFETY
IMPROVEMENTS
WHEREAS, City of Lathrop City Hall was originally constructed in 2005 and underwent remodeling improvements in 2021. Those projects focused on facility modernization, customer service functionality, and general building improvements consistent with the operational priorities at the time; and WHEREAS, the facility currently incorporates a number of practical safety features, including restricted staff areas, electronic access controls, and operational staffing support during public meetings; and
WHEREAS, as standards and best practices for public building security continue to advance, staff reviewed opportunities to further enhance access management, employee safety, and visitor screening in a manner consistent with the City' s commitment to maintaining a safe, professional, and welcoming civic environment; and
WHEREAS, the following options are presented for Council review and consideration:
OPTION 1: Law Enforcement Personnel and K9 Officer Presence at Council Meetings
OPTION 2: Hand - Held (" Wand") Screening
OPTION 3: Mobile Walk -Through Metal Detector and Secondary Hand - Held (" Wand") Screening
OPTION 4: Walk -Through Metal Detector, Bag Screening, and Secondary Hand - Held (" Wand") Screening
WHEREAS, staff is requesting Council select one Option and staff will implement additional staffing for Council meetings.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Lathrop does hereby select Option
Resolution No. Page 1 of 2
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of September 2026, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
PAUL AKINJO, MAYOR
ATTEST: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Teresa Vargas, City Clerk Salvador Navarrete, City Attorney Resolution No. Page 2 of 2
ATTACHMENT B
Hand -Held Metal Detector
Beep your way to safety at public events.
Detect guns, razor blades, large knives or foil -
wrapped drugs.
Sharp audible alarm or silent vibration.
Weatherproof case with rubber handle.
9V battery included.
ATTACHMENT C
WALK- THROUGH METAL DETECTOR
Quickly detects guns, knives and razor blades at
schools, concerts, night clubs and government
buildings.
Portable and easy to use. 5 -minute setup with no
tools required.
Operates up to 40 hours on rechargeable 12V
batteries. No cords needed.
3 sensor zones with LED indicators provide head -to -
toe detection.
Carry strap and 2 wheels make transportation quick
and easy.
100 sensitivity settings. Can be adjusted to pick up
items as small as a bobby pin.
For the Waryoi sseryma _ ice
entenng City HaA,
all persons and bags w
are subject to screen ng.
Thank you for
your cool... Wn
ATTACHMENT E
Security Screening Procedures for City Council Chambers POLICY NUMBER:
ADM- XXX
EFFECTIVE DATE:
Insert Date]
REVIEW DATE:
Insert Date]
APPROVED BY:
Chief of Police / City Manager
I. PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to establish standardized security screening procedures for individuals entering City Council Chambers and other designated public meeting areas in order to enhance public safety, protect elected officials, staff, and attendees, and ensure the orderly conduct of public meetings while preserving constitutional rights and public access requirements.
II. POLICY
It is the policy of the Police Department and City to provide a safe and secure environment during public meetings conducted at City facilities. Security screening measures, including the use of walk- through metal detectors and handheld metal detectors (" security wands"), may be implemented for all persons entering designated meeting areas when deemed necessary for public safety.
Handheld metal detector screening shall generally be used as a secondary screening method when a walk- through metal detector alarm is activated.
Screening procedures shall be conducted in a fair, impartial, and non- discriminatory manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
ATTACHMENT E
III. DEFINITIONS
A. Walk -Through Metal Detector
A stationary electronic screening device designed to detect metallic objects on a person entering
a secured area.
B. Handheld Metal Detector (" Wand")
A portable electronic device used to identify the approximate location of metallic objects after an alarm or alert from a walk- through metal detector.
C. Secondary Screening
Additional screening conducted after an alarm activation or identification of a suspicious item during primary screening.
D. Prohibited Items
Items prohibited from entry into City Council Chambers, including but not limited to:
Firearms and ammunition ( except as authorized by law); Knives or edged weapons;
Explosives or incendiary devices;
Chemical agents or hazardous materials;
Any item determined by security personnel to pose a safety risk.
IV. PROCEDURES
A. Implementation of Screening
1. Security screening may be implemented:
o For all City Council meetings;
o During meetings anticipated to have elevated attendance or heightened security concerns;
o At the direction of the Chief ofPolice, Watch Commander, City Manager, or designee.
2. Screening procedures should be communicated through:
o Posted signage at building entrances;
o Public notices;
o Agenda postings when practical.
3. Signage shall advise attendees that entry into Council Chambers is conditioned upon compliance with security screening procedures.
ATTACHMENT E
B. Primary Screening Process
1. All individuals entering the Council Chambers may be required to:
o Pass through a walk- through metal detector;
o Remove metallic items from pockets when requested;
o Submit bags, backpacks, briefcases, or containers for visual inspection.
2. Personnel conducting screenings shall:
o Maintain professionalism and courtesy;
o Conduct screenings uniformly and without bias;
o Respect personal dignity and privacy to the greatest extent possible.
C. Secondary Screening — Handheld Metal Detector (Wand)
1. Individuals activating the walk- through metal detector alarm may be subject to secondary screening using a handheld metal detector.
2. Prior to wand screening, personnel should request the individual remove identifiable metallic objects, including but not limited to:
o Keys;
o Cell phones;
o Belts;
o Coins;
o Watches or jewelry.
3. Handheld wand screening shall:
o Be conducted by trained personnel;
o Be limited to identifying the source of the alarm;
o Avoid unnecessary physical contact;
o Be conducted in a professional and respectful manner.
4. Ifthe handheld metal detector alerts to a specific area:
o The individual may be asked to identify or remove the item; o Additional screening may occur as necessary to resolve the alarm.
5. Ifthe alarm cannot be resolved or a prohibited item is identified:
o Entry may be denied;
o Appropriate enforcement action may be taken consistent with law and Department policy.
D. Refusal to Comply
1. Individuals refusing to comply with screening procedures may be denied entry into Council Chambers.
2. Personnel shall:
ATTACHMENT E
o Advise the individual that screening is required for entry; o Provide an opportunity to voluntarily comply;
o Attempt to resolve the matter through voluntary cooperation whenever feasible.
3. Individuals who refuse to leave the screening area or who become disruptive may be subject to enforcement action consistent with applicable law and Department policy.
E. Accommodations and Medical Considerations
1. Reasonable accommodations shall be provided for individuals with disabilities or medical devices.
2. Individuals with medical implants or conditions affected by metal detectors may request alternative screening procedures.
3. Screening procedures shall comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
V. TRAINING
Personnel assigned to screening duties shall receive training on:
Operation of walk- through and handheld metal detectors; De- escalation techniques;
Constitutional considerations and civil rights;
ADA accommodations;
Identification of prohibited weapons and hazardous items; Professional screening procedures.
VI. PUBLIC ACCESS
Nothing in this policy is intended to unlawfully restrict public access to open meetings.
Screening procedures shall be narrowly tailored to address legitimate safety concerns while preserving lawful public participation rights.
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