____________________________________________________________________________________
FOR CITY CLERK ONLY
Council Meeting: _______________________
Disposition: ___________________________
Agenda Item No: 2.g
Meeting Date: March 2, 2026
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Department: Police Department
Prepared by: Teresa Komoda, Senior
Management Analyst II
David Spiller, Police Chief
City Manager Approval: ______________
TOPIC: 2025 POLICE ADVISORY AND ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT SUBJECT: ACCEPT THE 2025 POLICE ADVISORY AND ACCOUNTABILITY COMMITTEE
ANNUAL REPORT
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the City Council accept the 2025 PAAC Annual Report.
BACKGROUND:
On June 5, 2023, the San Rafael City Council approved Resolution No. 15225, establishing the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee (PAAC, or Committee). The Committee's main purpose is to provide insights that enhance public transparency and accountability within the SRPD. It aims to increase community involvement in recommending policies, practices, and procedures related to policing, including community relations, hiring practices, and training standards.
The Draft 2025 Annual Report was presented to the PAAC at the November 19, 2025, meeting. The Committee provided comments during the meeting. Staff considered these comments and made edits to the draft to include:
• The creation of an appendix that includes a matrix of the PAAC's recommendations, as well as the status of the recommendation and staff responses.
• Staff responses were moved from the section titled “Committee Recommendations” to the Appendix.
• Information regarding the purpose and content of each agenda topic was added to the “Committee Recommendations” section.
• The addition of 2025 complaint data.
On January 21, 2026, the Committee reviewed the final draft of the 2025 Annual Report, which was subsequently accepted through a motion.
ANALYSIS:
Pursuant to Section 1.3 of the PAAC Bylaws, the Committee serves in an advisory capacity to the City Council, City Manager, and Police Department. Its duties include acting as a sounding board for community concerns, making policy and procedural recommendations, requesting and reviewing operational data (as permitted by law), conducting community outreach, and producing an annual public report summarizing its work. The Committee is also charged with fostering effective communication and SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2
collaboration with SRPD and advising on matters intended to improve safety, trust, transparency, accountability, workforce diversity, and cultural competency.
The 2025 Annual Report, provided in Attachment 1, details the PAAC's activities. It outlines the work plans developed, the training topics addressed, the presentations delivered, and the recommendations made by the Committee. This report is submitted to the City Council in accordance with the Committee’s advisory responsibilities. It offers the City Council and the community a comprehensive overview of the Committee’s work, recommendations, outreach efforts, and engagement activities throughout the year.
The report underscores the Committee’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and fostering community trust.
Committee Recommendations
In 2025, the Committee issued 32 recommendations across a broad range of topics, including traffic safety, immigration law, Racial Identity and Profiling Act (RIPA) data and analysis, military equipment, police culture, human trafficking, transparency, and Committee governance.
Of the 32 recommendations:
• 19 have been completed.
• 3 were completed upon acceptance of the Annual Report at the January 21, 2026, PAAC meeting. • 9 remain pending or under consideration.
• 1 recommendation is not supported by staff.
Month Topic Summary of Pending
Recommendation Status / Next Steps
January
AB 43
Traffic
Safety
Conduct additional speed studies
and evaluate speed limit changes
on additional corridors (Phase 2).
Pending as part of the Phase 2
study; results to be presented to
PAAC before City Council
consideration.
January
AB 43
Traffic
Safety
Conduct a speed survey and
targeted outreach in the Canal
neighborhood.
Pending as part of the Phase 2
study and outreach efforts.
May RIPA
Adopt performance metrics to
monitor progress on RIPA-related
strategies.
Under consideration; aligns with
the development of an equity
dashboard.
May RIPA Establish an annual RIPA equity
assessment.
Under consideration; staff
supports collaborative
development of a public-facing
equity dashboard.
June Human
Trafficking
Allocate funding for additional
investigators dedicated to human
trafficking cases.
Under consideration; subject to
staffing, budget, and resource
availability.
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3
Month Topic Summary of Pending
Recommendation Status / Next Steps
August Police
Culture
Provide additional information
specific to SRPD organizational
culture.
Pending; identified as a priority
topic in the 2026 Workplan.
October Police
Culture
Conduct an annual employee
engagement survey to assess
organizational culture.
Under consideration; staff
exploring options consistent with
City policy and confidentiality
standards.
October Police
Culture
Expand community outreach and
return the topic as a 2026 Workplan
priority.
Pending inclusion in future 2026
presentations and outreach
planning.
November
RIPA
Working
Group
Review and analyze Working Group
findings and recommendations. Under analysis by SRPD.
PAAC Recommendations Pending or Under Consideration
In summary, the remaining PAAC recommendations that are pending or under consideration largely relate to longer-term policy evaluation, data development, resource allocation, and community engagement. These items are being advanced through existing planning processes, including Phase 2 traffic studies, development of equity and performance metrics, budget and staffing assessments, and inclusion of priority topics in the Committee’s 2026 Workplan. Staff will continue to collaborate with the Committee and provide updates as these items progress.
PAAC Recommendation Not Supported by Staff
One recommendation adopted by the Committee that is not supported by staff is the proposal to implement a one-year pilot program eliminating vehicle equipment violations or mechanical enforcement stops, which, to some, are referred to as pretext traffic stops. While staff acknowledge and respect the Committee’s interest in advancing equity and strengthening community trust, SRPD determined that broadly categorizing administrative or equipment-related stops as pretextual does not fully reflect the range of legitimate enforcement actions required to maintain roadway and public safety. Proactive traffic enforcement, including equipment and safety-related stops, plays an important role in preventing collisions, addressing hazardous driving conditions, and addressing community concerns about crime and traffic safety. For these reasons, staff does not support the implementation of this recommendation as proposed, while remaining committed to continuing to evaluate enforcement practices through data analysis, policy review, and ongoing engagement with the Committee.
Policy Considerations
The PAAC’s recommendations and the corresponding staff responses were evaluated in the context of existing City policies, SRPD policies, labor agreements, City Ordinances, and applicable state and federal law. Where recommendations were supported or partially supported, staff assessed operational feasibility, resource availability, and alignment with the City Council’s Strategic Plan and public safety objectives. The implementation of any recommendation is subject to legal requirements governing law enforcement operations, public records, confidentiality protections, labor relations, and due process.
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 4
City Council acceptance of the 2025 PAAC Annual Report aligns with the goals of the City’s FY 2025- 2028 Strategic Plan, including Objective E.1.4 “Identify and implement strategies to foster more community involvement to increase trust between law enforcement and the community.” Staff respectfully recommends that the City Council accept the PAAC 2025 Annual Report. Acceptance acknowledges receipt of the Committee’s work and recommendations and allows staff and the Committee to continue advancing ongoing and future efforts consistent with City policy and Council direction.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH:
A draft Annual Report was presented to the PAAC as part of the November 19, 2025, meeting packet.
The final draft of the Annual Report was presented to the PAAC on January 21, 2026.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with the acceptance of the 2025 PAAC Annual Report.
OPTIONS:
The City Council has the following options to consider on this matter:
1. Accept the 2025 PAAC Annual Report.
2. Direct staff to return with more information.
3. Take no action.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Staff recommends that the City Council accept the 2025 PAAC Annual Report.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. 2025 PAAC Annual Report
2025 Annual Report
Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ......................................................... 1 STRUCTURE ........................................................................... 1 COMMITTEE MEETINGS ........................................................ 2 COMMITTEE WORK ............................................................... 2 COMMITTEE WORK PLAN ......................................................... 2 PRESENTATIONS AND SPEAKERS .............................................. 4 COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................. 5 WORKING GROUPS ............................................................... 15 COMPLAINT DATA ................................................................. 18 TRAINING, DEVELOPMENT, AND CONFERENCES.............. 22 ORAL BOARD PARTICIPATION................................................. 23 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND FUTURE GOALS..................... 24 APPENDIX ........................................................................... A1 APPENDIX- STAFF RESPONSES TO PAAC RECOMMENDATIONS... A1 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Police Advisory and Accountability Committee (“PAAC” or “Committee”) is pleased to present the 2025 Annual Report for the City of San Rafael. Established on June 5, 2023, through the adoption of Resolution No. 15225 by the San Rafael City Council, the PAAC aims to foster trust, enhance transparency, and improve accountability within the San Rafael Police Department (SRPD).
The second annual report emphasizes the PAAC’s ongoing commitment to encouraging meaningful dialogue between the community and police regarding practices and policies.
Building on the foundation established in the initial report, this document highlights the progress made over the past year, key achievements, and ongoing initiatives designed to improve trust, transparency, and accountability.
The PAAC recognizes the crucial role of collaboration between the SRPD and the community it serves. The Committee’s efforts are grounded in the belief that transparent and accountable policing is vital for building public trust and ensuring a safe and equitable environment for all residents and businesses.
This report outlines the Committee’s goals and objectives, summarizes significant initiatives and community engagement activities, presents recommendations to the City Council, and offers a forward-looking perspective on the priorities the Committee intends to pursue in the upcoming year.
STRUCTURE
Committee members must be residents of the City of San Rafael and pledge their commitment to impartiality, objectivity, and fairness. The PAAC aims to ensure that its membership is inclusive and representative of the community's diverse backgrounds.
This includes but is not limited to considerations of race, ethnicity, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, economic status, and various communities of interest.
To be eligible for membership, individuals must be at least 18 years old, except for one designated seat reserved for a youth member aged 17 to 26. Importantly, applicants are not required to possess specialized knowledge or skills to serve on the Committee. The current Committee comprises the following members:
Name Term Expiration
Paula Kamena 10/2027
Darlin Ruiz 10/2027
Daryoush Davidi 10/2027
Mydung Nguyen 10/2027
Marilyn Alvarez – Youth Member 10/20251
1 Member Alvarez ended her term at the end of October 2025, and Member Rodas was appointed in October 2025.
2 Kennedy Rodas – Youth Member 10/20291
Fatai Tokolahi 10/20292
Daniel Alm 10/20293
Salamah Locks – Alternate 10/2027
Karla Valdez - Alternate 10/2027
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
The PAAC held ten meetings in 2025, including a Special Meeting on January 11, 2025, to develop the annual workplan. Regular Committee meetings take place in the City Council chambers located at 1400 Fifth Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901, and are broadcast live online. Archived videos and materials from these meetings can also be accessed online at the following URL: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/paac-meetings/.
During regular meetings, the Committee conducts business as a whole body and invites public comments in an open forum where ideas, concerns, and input are exchanged.
Public feedback is highly encouraged and may also be submitted electronically in advance of the meeting. Post-meeting video recordings and meeting minutes are also made available on the Committee website for full transparency.
COMMITTEE WORK
During the December 4, 2024, meeting, the Committee elected Fatai Tokolahi as Chair and Daryoush Davidi as Vice Chair for 2025. At the November 20, 2025, meeting, the Committee selected Daryoush Davidi as the Chair and Darlin Ruiz as the Vice Chair for 2026.
COMMITTEE WORK PLAN
In 2025, the Committee created its annual workplan during a special meeting held on January 11, 2025. The topics suggested by Committee members were prioritized based on majority votes. The workplan acts as a strategic guide for the Committee's discussions and initiatives. It includes key training sessions and significant discussions aimed at developing recommendations to enhance community relationships by promoting transparency and improving SRPD practices.
The 2025 workplan was developed by the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee (PAAC) members to help fulfill their mission. The plan provides guidance to the San Rafael City Council on issues related to the SRPD, including training, hiring practices, and accountability efforts.
The table below reflects the topics discussed at the January 11, 2025, Special Meeting, along with the number of Committee members interested in each subject. 2 Member Tokolahi was selected for a second term from 2025-2029. 3 Member Alm was selected for a second term from 2025-2029. 3 Topic PAAC Members Interested in Topic
Youth and Policing 8
Police Culture 7
Prostitution/Human-Trafficking 6
Transparency 6
ICE/Immigration 6
Homelessness 5
AB481 4
RIPA 4
Traffic Safety 3
Collective bargaining 2
Police Academy 2
Pretext Stops 2
Theft and Burglary 2
Technology/Drones 1
Language Interpretation 1
Press Release Timelines 1
Use of Force 1
Bylaws 1
Complaint Data 1
Tie Breaking 2nd Round Vote
RIPA 5
Police Wellness 3
4 PRESENTATIONS AND SPEAKERS
The PAAC hosted a series of presentations designed to deepen community engagement and enhance understanding of policing practices. This series featured a diverse group of speakers—including legal experts, city employees, police department representatives, subject-matter specialists, and community advocates—who addressed key issues in public safety, policing practices, and accountability.
The table below reflects the 2025 schedule of topics and presenters as a result of the work plan created by the Committee. It highlights the Committee’s primary achievements, focus areas, and ongoing initiatives throughout the year. Together, these efforts demonstrate the Committee’s continued progress in promoting transparency, strengthening community trust, and fostering continuous improvement within the SRPD’s operations and practices.
Month Agenda Items Presenters
January
2024 Annual Report PAAC Staff Liaisons
Downtown Speed Limits,
Assembly Bill 43 (AB 43)
Jimmy Jessup, Parametrix
Eugelyn Lopez, Junior Engineer
Joanna Kwok, Asst. Public Works
Director
February U.S. Customs and Immigration
California Values Act (SB 54) Roy Leon, Capt. SRPD
March
Racial Identity and Profiling
Act
(RIPA) AB 953
David Swing, Former RIPA Advisory
Board Member
Kyle Williams, RIPA Analyst, Marin
County
PAAC Staff Liaisons
April AB481 Military Equipment Scott Eberle, Lt. SRPD
May
RIPA Tammy Edmonson, MVFREE
Homelessness
Daniel Cooperman, Community
Services Director
Lynn Murphy, Mental Health Outreach
Liaison
June Human Trafficking Chris Duncan, Sgt. SRPD
August Police Culture
Beth Dansie, Public Safety Family
Counseling Group
Mike Mathis, San Rafael Police
Association
PAAC Staff Liaisons
September Meeting Canceled
October Police Culture PAAC Staff Liaisons
5 Month Agenda Items Presenters
RIPA - Work Group Update
PAAC Staff Liaisons
PAAC Work Group Members: Davidi,
Kamena, Tokolahi,
November
Transparency
Francine Kerridge, Police Oversight
Director, City of Long Beach
Mark Wilson, Burke, Williams, and
Sorensen, LLP
Chair and Vice Chair
Selections
PAAC Staff Liaisons
2026 Meeting Schedule PAAC Staff Liaisons
2025 Annual Report PAAC Staff Liaisons
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS
The Committee’s proposed topics and recommendations were developed within the scope of its advisory authority and are aligned with the purpose and responsibilities outlined in the PAAC Bylaws4, including enhancing transparency and accountability, fostering collaboration between the San Rafael Police Department and the community, and maintaining ongoing community outreach and engagement.
This section offers a consolidated overview of the topics presented and the related recommendations, requests, and motions made throughout the Committee’s 2025 meetings. For full transparency and public access to the official record, each meeting date heading includes a hyperlink to the corresponding meeting recording. For a detailed or verbatim account of any discussion, members of the public are encouraged to review the full recording, which serves as the authoritative record of the proceedings pursuant to the Brown Act and applicable public records requirements.
Throughout the year, the Committee developed recommendations for the City Council’s consideration, informed by guest speaker presentations, training sessions, data review, and Committee discussion. Recommendations were submitted either individually by members or collectively through motions adopted by vote. The following section summarizes the recommendations presented for City Council review. A table containing each of the Committee’s recommendations, as well as the status of the recommendation and additional comments from staff, is provided in the appendix to this report. 4 Police Advisory & Accountability Committee Bylaws - San Rafael 6 January 15, 2025, Meeting
The following formal motions were made during this meeting, with the listed recommendations:
2024 PAAC Annual Report
Purpose: Section 1.3 of the Committee Bylaws states that the PAAC is responsible for producing an annual public report that outlines the Committee's work throughout the year.
This report is to be presented to the City Council to ensure community awareness.
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena moved to accept the 2024 PAAC Annual Report with a change in verbiage on page 10 of the Annual Report from the term “recommendation” to “topic” under the Youth and Policing item, along with amending the introductory language under the Committee Recommendations section to reflect that the recommendations were diverse amongst Committee members. Member Ruiz seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Alvarez, Davidi, Kamena, Nguyen, Ruiz, Tokolahi
NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
Status 1: Completed. The 2024 PAAC Annual Report was formally presented to the City Council on February 18, 2025. Former Chair Kamena, in collaboration with the PAAC Staff Liaisons, delivered the presentation.
Downtown Speed Limits (AB 43)
Purpose: Assembly Bill 43 (AB 43) expands the authority of local governments to lower speed limits on roads, including state highways, in business and residential areas and other stretches identified as “safety corridors.” The City’s Public Works Department presented the first phase of proposed speed limit changes in downtown San Rafael. The Committee’s review of AB 43 and related traffic policies focuses on transparency, policy understanding, and advisory recommendations to the City Council.
Following the presentation, no formal motion was made by the Committee; however, several comments and requests were noted in response.
Recommendation 1: Members Alvarez, Nguyen, Ruiz, and Valdez asked for other areas of the City to be studied and mentioned areas surrounding schools.
Status 1: Completed. Phase 1 of the project was presented to the City Council by the Public Works Department for consideration on February 18, 2025. In Phase 2 of the study, the City is evaluating other roadways in San Rafael that would be appropriate and follow the same review and City Council approval process for reduced speed limits described above. Initial Phase 2 results were presented to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory 7 Committee on December 3, 2025, and will be presented to the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee in early 2026 prior to presentation to City Council.
Recommendation 2: Member Alm requested that Traffic Safety be included as a discussion topic, which he raised at the special meeting. He further stated that it is a priority when he speaks with community members.
Status 2: Completed. The PAAC identifies its priority topics for the year through a collaborative, consensus-based process. The 2026 Work Plan was discussed at the study session on January 10, 2026. The topics of Traffic and Traffic Safety were identified as priority topics for the Committee in 2026.
Recommendation 3: Member Alm requested that the results of the Speed Creep be provided, for a traffic study to be conducted to include Second and Third Street, increase traffic enforcement on Second and Third Street, and reduce the speed limit on Miracle Mile from 35 to 30 mph.
Status 3: Completed/Pending. The request for increased traffic enforcement was forwarded to the SRPD Traffic and Patrol Divisions. The Traffic Unit is fully staffed, and enforcement has been increased. The remaining items are not under the purview of SRPD; therefore, they are referred to Public Works for consideration. Please refer to the response in Recommendation 1, which details Phase 2 of the study.
Recommendation 4: Member Ruiz requested that all outreach materials for AB 43 be translated into Spanish, requested a speed survey, and requested outreach in the Canal neighborhood.
Status 4: Completed/Pending. The Public Works Department has a dedicated webpage for Assembly Bill 43 (AB43). This page includes an option to translate all materials and information. You can access this information at: https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/traffic6/assembly-bill-ab-43-strategy-faq/. The remaining portion of this recommendation is pending in Phase 2 of the study. Please refer to the response in Recommendation 1 for a detailed timeline.
February 19, 2025, Meeting
U.S. Customs and Immigration
Purpose: Review of departmental policies and public-facing practices related to immigration status and community trust. This topic aligns with the Committee’s purpose of improving trust and transparency.
No formal motion was made during this meeting; however, Committee members shared the following recommendations.
Recommendation 1: Members Ruiz and Valdez recommended that SRPD provide outreach materials, such as an FAQ, in both hard copy and online formats to address misinformation and share information with the community. 8 Status 1: Completed. This information, along with a detailed FAQ, is published in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese online at SRPD.org, and the information was emailed to all PAAC members in April 2025.
Recommendation 2: Alternate Member Locks requested that “Red Cards” be provided.
Status 2: Completed. The link to the “Red Cards” was included in the outreach materials published in April 2025. The City also purchased “Red Cards” for distribution at City Hall and other City facilities.
Recommendation 3: Members Alvarez and Ruiz requested outreach efforts and materials for youth through the schools, so students can share them with their families at home.
Status 3: Completed. Outreach materials and efforts were shared with the San Rafael City Schools District partners.
March 19, 2025, Meeting
Public Comment Duration
Purpose: During the February 19, 2025, meeting, Alternate Member Locks requested that the public comment time limit be included on the agenda for a future meeting. Staff presented this item for discussion at the March 19, 2025, meeting.
Recommendation 1: Member Alm made a motion to maintain the public comment duration period at two minutes. Member Ruiz seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Kamena, Nguyen, Ruiz, Tokolahi, Valdez NOES: MEMBERS: Davidi
ABSENT: MEMBERS: Alvarez
Status 1: Completed. The Committee voted to maintain the two-minute public comment period.
Racial Identity and Profiling Act (RIPA)
Purpose: The Racial and Identity Profiling Act (RIPA) was enacted in 2015 through Assembly Bill 953, aiming to address and eliminate racial and identity profiling in California’s law enforcement practices. This legislation mandates all law enforcement agencies collect and report detailed data on all vehicle and pedestrian stops, including the perceived race, perceived ethnicity, perceived gender, and age of individuals stopped, as well as the reasons and outcomes of these encounters.
No formal motion was made after the RIPA presentation at the March meeting; however, the Committee members provided the following comments and recommendations.
Recommendation 1: Members Ruiz and Locks requested that a report be produced that identifies mechanical violations.
9 Status 1: Completed; staff provided this material at the May 21, 2025, meeting.
Recommendation 2: Members Alm and Locks requested to invite MVFREE to return at a future meeting and provide a presentation on RIPA.
Status 2: Completed. MVFREE was invited and returned at the May 21, 2025, meeting.
Recommendation 3: Member Ruiz inquired about the most common violations and reasons for stops of Latinx drivers.
Status 3: Completed; staff provided this material at the May 21, 2025, meeting.
Recommendation 4: Member Alm requested that the discussion on the topic of RIPA be continued to a future meeting.
Status 4: Completed. RIPA was agendized at the May 21, 2025, meeting, where staff presented additional data as requested, and MVFREE provided a presentation on RIPA.
April 16, 2025, Meeting
Military Equipment (AB 481)
Purpose: The Committee’s review of AB 481 focuses on understanding equipment types, authorized uses, reporting requirements, and transparency measures. The Committee does not direct deployment, access operational details, or review specific incidents involving equipment use. Review supports transparency by examining annual AB 481 reports and ensuring information is accessible to the public, consistent with legal disclosure requirements.
Recommendation 1: The following formal motion was made during this meeting:
Member Kamena moved that the PAAC unanimously support and recommend the Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program to the City Council. Member Davidi seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Alvarez, Davidi, Kamena, Ruiz, Tokolahi, Valdez NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: Nguyen
Status 1: Completed. The San Rafael Police Department presented its Annual AB 481 Report, as required by statute, during the City Council meeting on June 2, 2025. The report included a request for the acquisition of new equipment to support the implementation of the Drone as a First Responder (DFR) program. Following the presentation, the City Council approved the contract and associated purchases. The DFR program has since entered the implementation and training phases, marking a significant step toward expanding the Department’s technology-driven public safety initiatives. 10 May 21, 2025, Meeting
Racial Identity and Profiling Act (RIPA)
Purpose: At its March 19, 2025, meeting, the PAAC received a staff report and presentation on RIPA. During the March 19, 2025, meeting, several Committee members requested additional data and information related to traffic citations and mechanical violations. Additionally, Committee members requested that representatives from Mill Valley Free (MVFREE) return to provide a presentation on their RIPA report.
The following formal motions were made during this meeting, with the listed recommendations:
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena moved to recommend that SRPD adopt a Bias by Proxy policy. Member Alm seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Alvarez, Kamena, Nguyen, Ruiz, Tokolahi, Valdez NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: Davidi
Status 1: Completed. SRPD has adopted a Bias by Proxy Policy.
Recommendation 2: Member Alvarez moved to recommend SRPD adopt MVFREE’s recommendation #2- “Adopt a one-year pilot program eliminating pre-text stops.” Member Ruiz seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Alvarez, Nguyen, Ruiz, Tokolahi, Valdez NOES: MEMBERS: Kamena
ABSENT:MEMBERS: Davidi
Status 2: The Department does not support implementing this recommendation. Please refer to the Appendix for staff’s response to this recommendation.
Recommendation 3: Member Alm moved to recommend SRPD adopt MVFREE’s recommendation #3- “Use a performance metric to monitor the progress on recommended RIPA strategies.” Member Kamena seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Alvarez, Kamena, Nguyen, Ruiz, Tokolahi, Valdez NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: Davidi
Status 3: Pending. This recommendation is under consideration.
Recommendation 4: Member Alm moved to recommend SRPD adopt MVFREE’s recommendation #4- “Establish an annual RIPA equity assessment.” Member Kamena seconded the motion.
11 AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Alvarez, Kamena, Nguyen, Ruiz, Tokolahi, Valdez NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: Davidi
Status 4: Pending. This recommendation is under consideration.
Homelessness
Purpose: At its annual workplan, the Committee identified homelessness as a priority issue, specifically requesting a follow-up update to further examine the City’s ongoing efforts, progress, and areas for continued improvement in addressing this complex challenge.
No formal motion was made following this presentation.
June 18, 2025, Meeting
Human Trafficking
Purpose: The staff presentation provided an overview of the current landscape of human trafficking, highlighting key trends, challenges, and the efforts being undertaken at the local and national levels. It also outlined the roles and responsibilities of SRPD in identifying, preventing, and responding to trafficking cases, with a focus on interagency collaboration, victim support, and policy development. The goal of this report was to provide the PAAC with the knowledge and tools necessary to contribute meaningfully to anti-trafficking initiatives, ensure compliance with relevant laws and protocols, and foster a culture of vigilance, compassion, and accountability.
The following formal motions were made during this meeting, with the listed recommendations:
Recommendation 1: Member Davidi moved to recommend that the City allocate funding to SRPD to staff additional investigators dedicated to Human Trafficking investigations.
Member Kamena seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Alvarez, Davidi, Kamena, Nguyen, Ruiz, Tokolahi, NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
Status 1: Pending. This recommendation is under consideration.
Recommendation 2: Members Alm, Alvarez, and Valdez requested that staff provide additional statistics on interactions, arrests, and calls for service related to human trafficking.
12 Status 2: Completed. Staff provided the requested information at the August 20, 2025, meeting.
Recommendation 3: Member Kamena recommended that the topic of digital platforms used for grooming potential human trafficking victims be included as a discussion item in the 2026 Workplan.
Status 3: Completed. The PAAC discussed the 2026 Workplan at a study session on January 10, 2026. Human Trafficking was identified as a priority topic for the Committee in 2026.
During this meeting, Chair Tokolahi announced the formation of the RIPA Working Group.
August 20, 2025, Meeting
Police Culture
Purpose: The staff report provided an overview and analysis of the culture of policing and the SRPD's current organizational culture.
No formal motions were made during this meeting.
Recommendation 1: Member Alvarez commented that she wanted more information specific to the culture of SRPD.
Status 1: Pending. The PAAC discussed the 2026 Work Plan at a study session on January 10, 2026. Police Culture was identified as a priority topic for the Committee in 2026.
October 15, 2025, Meeting
Police Culture
Purpose: This topic was previously discussed at the August 20, 2025, meeting. Staff sought additional feedback on the August 20 staff report and presentations on police culture.
In response to the Police Culture presentation in August. The following recommendations were made by Committee members:
Recommendation 1: Member Alm recommended that SRPD conduct an Annual Employee Engagement survey to measure culture.
Status 1: Pending. This recommendation is under consideration.
Recommendation 2: Member Alm recommended more communication and outreach with the community to better understand their interests and priorities related to this topic and to bring this topic back for the 2026 Workplan.
Recommendation 3: Alternate Member Locks made several recommendations and comments. She expressed her desire to coordinate a guest presentation on this topic in 13 2026. Member Locks referenced a Stanford professor who was a guest speaker and with whom she spoke during the NACOLE Regional Meeting in August. She further noted that while the presentation on Police Culture focused on wellness, she is looking for a presentation that more specifically addresses cultural issues, the efforts being made to build trust, and strategies to reduce lawlessness, mistreatment, and crime.
Recommendation 4: Members Kamena and Tokolahi noted that if this topic is to be included in the 2026 Workplan, additional efforts should be made to solicit feedback from the community to better understand their perspectives and specific requests related to the issue.
Status 2, 3, and 4: Pending; The PAAC discussed the 2026 Workplan at a study session on January 10, 2026. The Committee identified Police Culture as a priority topic.
Recommendations 2-4 are pending inclusion into a presentation at a future PAAC meeting in 2026.
The RIPA Working Group presented their work and findings at this meeting. That information can be found starting on page 16 of this document.
November 19, 2025, Meeting
Transparency
Purpose: The report and presentations provided a comprehensive overview of the department’s ongoing transparency efforts, highlighting key trends, existing challenges, and strategic initiatives to strengthen accountability and openness. It also provided the legal context regarding the disclosure of information to the public.
No formal motion was made following this presentation.
Chair and Vice-Chair Selections
Purpose: According to the City of San Rafael’s Rules and Procedures for Boards, Commissions, and Committees (BCCs), the PAAC is responsible for appointing one (1) representative as Board Chair and one (1) representative as Vice-Chair.
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena moved to have Vice Chair Davidi serve as Chair, and Member Alm serve as Vice Chair for the 2026 term. There was not a second on the motion, and Member Kamena withdrew the motion.
Member Kamena moved to select Vice-Chair Davidi as the Chair for 2026. Member Alm seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Davidi, Kamena, Nguyen, Rodas, Ruiz, Tokolahi, NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
Status 1: Completed. Member Davidi will serve as Chair in 2026. 14 Recommendation 2: Member Kamena moved to select Member Ruiz as the Vice-Chair for 2026. Member Alm seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Davidi, Kamena, Nguyen, Rodas, Ruiz, Tokolahi, NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
Status 2: Completed. Member Ruiz will serve as Vice Chair in 2026. 2026 PAAC Meeting Schedule
Purpose: Per the Committee Bylaws, the PAAC must adopt an annual meeting schedule.
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena moved to defer the item to the January 10, 2026, Workplan Study Session. Member Alm seconded the motion.
AYES: MEMBERS: Alm, Davidi, Kamena, Nguyen, Rodas, Ruiz, Tokolahi, NOES: MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS: None
Status 1: Completed. The 2026 meeting schedule was discussed during the Workplan Study Session on January 10, 2026. The Committee adopted the following meeting schedule:
Date Time Location
Saturday, January 10, 2026 * 9:00 a.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, January 21, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, March 18, 2026 6:00 p.m. TBD
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, May 20, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, June 17, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, August 19, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, September 16, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, October 21, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Wednesday, November 18, 2026 6:00 p.m. City Council Chambers The Committee unanimously adopted the 2026 meeting schedule with the exception of a February meeting date, due to conflicts with religious observances. An alternate February meeting date will be selected during the regular PAAC meeting on January 21, 2026. 2025 Annual Report
Purpose: Section 1.3 of the Committee Bylaws states that the PAAC is responsible for producing an annual public report that outlines the Committee's work throughout the year.
This report is to be presented to the City Council to ensure community awareness. 15 The DRAFT 2025 Annual Report was presented to the PAAC for comments and review.
Recommendation 1: Member Alm asked for less weight in the report to be allocated to the Working Group subsection and wanted to exclude the SRPD response from the report or move it to an appendix section.
Recommendation 2: Member Kamena stated she did not want to exclude the Working Group subsection of the report.
Recommendation 3: Alternate Member Locks shared that she felt the Working Group subsection was out of proportion to the report.
Status 1, 2, and 3: Pending. A revised draft 2025 Annual Report will be presented at the January 21, 2026, PAAC meeting.
WORKING GROUPS
In 2025, the PAAC established two working groups, one focused on the topic of Youth and Policing and the other focused on the topic of the Racial Identity and Profiling Act (RIPA). The Youth and Policing Working group included Member Alm and Youth Member Alvarez. The RIPA working group included Chair Tokolahi, Vice Chair Davidi, and Member Kamena.
Youth and Policing
The topic of Youth and Policing was presented at the September 18, 2024, PAAC meeting. Following the presentation and discussion, several members of the Committee recommended dedicating additional time to this subject and revisiting it in future meetings.
As a result, Youth and Policing was selected as a priority topic during the January 11, 2025, Workplan Special Meeting.
At the March 19, 2025, meeting, the formation of the Youth and Policing Working Group was announced. Chair Tokolahi shared that Members Alm and Youth Member Alvarez were selected to attend youth listening sessions on this topic, coordinated in partnership with Youth Transforming Justice, to observe and provide feedback to the PAAC.
Member Alm provided the following progress report on behalf of the working group:
On May 14, 2025, Members Alvarez and Alm met with the Marin County Youth Commission to hold a roundtable discussion about youth experiences with police officers in the community.
A variety of perspectives were shared, highlighting both positive and negative interactions with school resource officers. Some youth described these officers as intimidating, both on campus and in the community. In contrast, others felt that having a visible police presence on school grounds could improve their sense of safety. Several participants noted that providing more opportunities to engage with officers at community events would help build more positive and trusting relationships.
Member Alm is working with Youth Transforming Justice to create a joint study that focuses on youth perspectives regarding policing in San Rafael. The study began on 16 November 11, 2025, with participation from 36 youth during the session. Additional progress reports from this working group will be available in 2026.
Youth Member Alvarez’s term concluded in October 2025. Subsequently, Kennedy Rodas was appointed as the new youth member of the PAAC in November of 2025, with the expectation that they would continue the initiatives begun by the outgoing youth member.
RIPA
A RIPA working group was initiated by Chair Tokolahi at the request of Member Kamena following the May 21, 2025, PAAC meeting in response to Committee discussions regarding racial disparities in traffic stops and the motion to explore a pilot program addressing “pretext stops.” Member Kamena requested the formation of a working group due to concerns that the approved motion lacked clarity and had further questions about the data presented. While there was general agreement on the importance of examining the data, there were differing perspectives on how administrative, or equipment violations should be categorized and whether all such stops should be considered “pretextual.” Chair Tokolahi announced the formation of the RIPA working group at the June 18, 2025, PAAC meeting. The working group met on three occasions: July 28, September 4, and October 9, 2025. The RIPA working group conducted a thorough review to determine what the implications and/or unintended consequence of implementing the policy.
The working group met, with staff support, to answer outstanding questions, and conduct research to identify factors contributing to disparities in stop data.
The RIPA working group requested that staff gather more information and provide context to clarify these processes, ensuring that future recommendations consider both legal and operational factors.
1. Agency Collaboration – This working group meeting was an information exchange with Mill Valley Police Department Chief Navarro to gain insights into the approaches of neighboring agencies. Mill Valley PD does not have a policy to ban pre-text stops.
2. Data Review and Analysis – The working group analyzed traffic stop and DUI data from the SRPD for 2025, reviewed the 2024 RIPA report, and the data provided by MVFREE to identify patterns, trends, and potential areas of disparity.
3. Comparative Research – The working group reviewed the Pennsylvania State Police Traffic Stop Study, focusing on traffic stop data to better understand benchmarking practices and the application of census data for demographic comparisons.
4. The working group asked the following questions to explore the operational, legal, and community impacts of implementing the new policies.. • What is the role of officer discretion in determining when and how traffic stops are conducted?
• What are frequently cited administrative and mechanical violations, and whether these correlate with safety outcomes?
17 • What are the accident and DUI statistics, and how might these be affected by changes to enforcement practices.
• What are the implementation and results of similar policies in other jurisdictions, including lessons learned?
• What is the relationship between discretionary enforcement, racial disparities, and public perception of fairness?
The working group was concerned that eliminating traffic stops could complicate officers' duties. Key points included:
• Community members are encouraged to petition members of the state legislature for changes in law enforcement.
• Concerns were raised about mailing citations for unregistered vehicles, particularly regarding accuracy and the likelihood of recipients ignoring them. • Racial and economic factors may affect vehicle registration, and it was suggested that community organizations explore financial assistance for registration fees.
During the October 15, 2025, PAAC meeting, the working group presented their research and shared with the Committee that after doing a deeper dive on this policy, they changed their minds and no longer believed it was a policy that they could support recommending to the City Council. Committee members asked questions, and Member Alm made several data requests of staff. There was discussion amongst the Committee. Some members did not agree with the working group. There was no consensus to change the policy recommendation to the City Council to ban pre-text stops, however the working group had a dissenting opinion, and those three members do not support recommending this policy to the City Council. No formal action, or vote, was taken at the meeting by the PAAC to modify the Committee’s recommendation to ban pre-text stops, which was voted on at the May 21, 2025 Committee meeting.
In response to the recommendations made at the May 21, 2025, PAAC meeting, the RIPA Working Group provided the following findings:
Committee Recommendation 1: SRPD adopt a Bias by Proxy policy.
RIPA Working Group Finding: The working group was pleased to report that SRPD has implemented this recommendation, and a Bias by Proxy5 policy is now in place.
Committee Recommendation 2: Adopt a one-year pilot program eliminating pretext stops.
RIPA Working Group Finding: The working group found through their research that banning pretext stops can increase crime by removing a proactive tool that helps officers deter criminal activity, identify repeat offenders, and interrupt illegal behavior before more serious crimes occur, reducing visible enforcement, 5 Bias by Proxy Policy
18 weakening deterrence, and limiting lawful opportunities to seize illegal weapons, drugs, or stolen property While they acknowledged the importance of addressing disparities in traffic stop outcomes, they believed that removal could compromise community public safety. The group emphasized the need to balance equitable policing with the responsibility of SRPD to conduct effective crime prevention in their mission to protect and serve the community.
Committee Recommendation 3: Use a performance metric to monitor the progress on recommended RIPA strategies.
RIPA Working Group Finding: The working group recommends ongoing evaluation of traffic stop data to identify disparities and areas for improvement, instead of a pretext stop elimination policy. They support collaboration with SRPD to enhance officer training on bias awareness and community engagement. These efforts aim to promote equitable policing while maintaining effective enforcement for crime reduction and roadway safety.
Committee Recommendation 4: Establish an annual RIPA equity assessment.
RIPA Working Group Finding: The working group supports the recommendation and proposes a new group to collaborate with staff on creating an equity dashboard. After the October meeting, Staff Liaisons asked Committee members if they were interested in joining the Equity Dashboard working group through the Chair.
COMPLAINT DATA
The SRPD takes all complaints about the services provided by the Department and the behavior of its members very seriously. The Department accepts and addresses all complaints of misconduct in accordance with its policies, as well as applicable federal, state, and local laws, municipal and county regulations, and any relevant collective bargaining agreements. Additionally, it is the policy of the SRPD to ensure that the community can report misconduct without fear of reprisal or retaliation.
Personnel complaints include any allegation of misconduct or improper job performance that, if true, would constitute a violation of department policy or of federal, state, or local law, policy, or rule. Personnel complaints may be generated internally or by the public.
Inquiries about conduct or performance that, if true, would not violate department policy or federal, state, or local law, policy, or rule may be handled informally by a supervisor and shall not be considered a personnel complaint. Such inquiries generally include clarification regarding policy, procedures, or the response to specific incidents by the SRPD.
Personnel complaints are classified in one of the following categories:
Informal - A matter in which the Shift Supervisor is satisfied that appropriate action has been taken by a supervisor of rank greater than the accused member.
Formal - A matter in which a supervisor determines that further action is warranted. 19 Incomplete - A matter in which the complaining party either refuses to cooperate or becomes unavailable after diligent follow-up investigation.
Personnel complaints are classified with one of the following dispositions:
Unfounded - When the investigation discloses that the alleged acts did not occur or did not involve department members. Complaints that are determined to be frivolous will fall within the classification of unfounded.
Exonerated - When the investigation discloses that the alleged act occurred but that the act was justified, lawful, and/or proper.
Not sustained - When the investigation discloses that there is insufficient evidence to sustain the complaint or fully exonerate the member.
Sustained6 - When the investigation discloses sufficient evidence to establish that the act occurred and that it constituted misconduct.
Inquiry- A matter about conduct or performance that, if true, would not violate department policy or federal, state, or local law, policy or rule may be handled informally by a supervisor and shall not be considered a personnel complaint.
IA- Indicates a complaint that was initiated internally and stands for Internal Affairs. 2024 Complaint Report
The PAAC received both quarterly and annual reports from SRPD Staff Liaison Lieutenant Scott Eberle. At the meeting on January 15, 2025, the Committee was presented with the annual complaint data for 2024. Lieutenant Eberle reported the following complaint data for 2024:
• 33 Complaints
• 23 Exonerated
• 6 Unfounded
• 2 Sustained
• 2 Pending
• 1 Complaint was for bias
• 1 Complaint was for the use of force
Neither the complaint regarding bias nor the use of force was sustained, and no additional information is subject to public disclosure under §832.7 of the Penal Code. Annual complaint data is published on the SRPD Transparency webpage. 6 Sustained findings subject to public disclosure under §832.7 of the Penal Code are published on the SRPD Transparency webpage at: https://www.srpd.org/transparency. 20 The Committee requested more frequent complaint reports from staff; as a result, quarterly complaint reports were provided to the PAAC throughout 2025.
First Quarter 2025 Complaint Data
During the April 16, 2025, meeting, Lieutenant Eberle discussed the first quarter complaints for 2025. A total of three complaints were received. Upon investigation, all complaints were determined to be unfounded. No additional information related to these complaints is subject to public disclosure under California Penal Code §832.7, which protects the confidentiality of peace officer personnel records and related investigative materials not specifically authorized for release under state law. Only records that meet the disclosure requirements outlined in Senate Bill 1421 and Senate Bill 16, such as incidents involving the use of deadly force, sustained findings of dishonesty, sexual misconduct, or discrimination, may be released to the public.
Second Quarter 2025 Complaint Data
During the August 20, 2025, meeting, Lieutenant Eberle provided the second quarter complaint data. Nine complaints were received during the second quarter, eight of which were cleared with a disposition of exonerated, and one complaint was cleared with a disposition of unfounded. No additional information related to these complaints is subject to public disclosure under California Penal Code §832.7, which protects the confidentiality of peace officer personnel records and related investigative materials not specifically authorized for release under state law. Only records that meet the disclosure requirements outlined in Senate Bill 1421 and Senate Bill 16, such as incidents involving the use of deadly force, sustained findings of dishonesty, sexual misconduct, or discrimination, may be released to the public.
Third Quarter 2025 Data
During the October 15, 2025, meeting, Lieutenant Eberle presented the third quarter complaint data. He reported that, year to date, the Department has received fifteen complaints, with one complaint currently under investigation. Of the complaints that have been completed, none have resulted in a sustained finding. No additional information related to these complaints is subject to public disclosure under California Penal Code §832.7, which protects the confidentiality of peace officer personnel records and related investigative materials not specifically authorized for release under state law. Only records that meet the disclosure requirements outlined in Senate Bill 1421 and Senate Bill 16, such as incidents involving the use of deadly force, sustained findings of dishonesty, sexual misconduct, or discrimination, may be released to the public. 2025 Complaint Report
The following table outlines all complaints received by the SRPD in 2025, along with the investigative disposition or current status.
21 Tracking
# Alleged Violation Status
25-01 Procedures Exonerated
25-02 Conduct Not Sustained
25-03 Conduct Exonerated
25-04 Procedures Exonerated
25-05 Procedures Exonerated
25-06 Procedures Exonerated
25-07 Procedures Exonerated
25-08 Procedures Exonerated
25-09 Conduct Exonerated
25-10 Procedures Exonerated
25-11 Conduct Not Sustained
25-12 Procedures Exonerated
25-13 Procedures Unfounded
25-14 Procedures Exonerated
25-15 Procedures Unfounded
25-16 Procedures Exonerated
25-17 Conduct Not Sustained
25-18 Procedures Exonerated
25-19 Procedures Unfounded
25-20 Procedures Unfounded
25-21 Conduct Unfounded
25-22 Procedures Exonerated
25-23 Use of Force Exonerated
25-24 Procedures Exonerated
25-25 Procedures Exonerated
25-26 Procedures Exonerated
25-27 Procedures Unfounded
22 Tracking
# Alleged Violation Status
25-28
IA-01 Conduct Sustained
25-29
IA-02 Procedures Pending
25-30
IA-03 Procedures Pending
Summary of 2025 Cases
• 30 complaints
• 18 Exonerated
• 6 Unfounded
• 3 Not Sustained
• 1 Sustained
• 2 Pending
• 1 Complaint was for the use of force
TRAINING, DEVELOPMENT, AND CONFERENCES
In 2024, the Committee and staff discussed the possibility of attending an upcoming National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE) conference.
While no formal decision about NACOLE membership was made in 2025, a Regional NACOLE meeting occurred in August 2025 in San Francisco. Two Committee members and one staff member attended this two-day meeting.
Member Ruiz participated in the SRPD Community Academy. The San Rafael Police Department offers two Academy sessions during the year; one of the two academies is taught in Spanish. Member Ruiz participated in the Spanish Community Academy.
Academy classes are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Academy is designed to foster an increased understanding of police operations, enhance awareness of the Police Department’s roles, capabilities, and limitations, and develop realistic expectations of Department responses. Additionally, it aims to bridge the gap between the community and the Police Department by building trust, respect, and a sense of cooperation. The program provides a forum for meaningful police-citizen exchange and dialogue.
The Community Police Academy provides community members with an inside look at local law enforcement. During academy training, students are introduced to a wide range of topics. The academy course is designed to provide residents with an overview of the Police Department’s function and operational procedures. During the Academy, students have an opportunity to ride in a marked patrol car and ride on the patrol boat. 23 Academy classes are taught by civilian and sworn police personnel of the San Rafael Police Department. Participants meet the Chief of Police and many members of the Department.
ORAL BOARD PARTICIPATION
The SRPD has made significant improvements to its hiring practices by including a member of the PAAC on the Oral Board Panel for SRPD recruitments for both sworn and non-sworn vacancies. PAAC members have participated in six different Oral Board Panels for the positions of Police Officer, Police Recruit, Records Specialist, and Police Dispatcher. Additionally, committee members took part in two promotional panels for internal sworn staff members. This change demonstrates the department's commitment to enhancing community involvement, transparency, and accountability in the selection of its officers. By inviting a PAAC member to participate, the department ensures that diverse perspectives are incorporated into the hiring process, fostering a stronger connection between the police force and the community it serves.
The Oral Board process is a critical component of the initial hiring phase. Candidates undergo a structured interview in which a panel, now including a PAAC representative, assesses their qualifications, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and suitability for the role of a police officer or cadet. This evaluation is designed to determine how well applicants align with the department’s values and its mission of communityoriented policing. The inclusion of a PAAC member enhances the objectivity and thoroughness of this process, ensuring that successful candidates not only possess the necessary skills but also reflect the values of integrity, service, and community partnership.
Ride Along Participation
Committee members participated in ride-alongs with officers throughout the year. Each member completed at least one ride-along, during which they observed patrol procedures and community interactions firsthand. These experiences provided valuable insights into the day-to-day operations of the SRPD and helped members better understand the challenges and complexities of maintaining public safety. By engaging directly with officers, committee members were able to see the practical application of the department's policies and the significance of community-oriented policing. This experience also allowed them to build relationships with law enforcement personnel, helping to bridge the gap between the police and the communities they serve. Their involvement in these activities highlights the committee's commitment to transparency, accountability, and collaborative community engagement.
Community Events
Throughout the year, Committee members also engage in various community events, meetings, and discussions. Committee members share their outreach efforts during the Committee Reports portion of each PAAC meeting. Below is a partial list of events attended in 2025.
24 National Night Out Canal Community Fair Porchfest
West End Traffic Safety
Meeting
1st Baptist Church Black
History Month Celebration
Sun Valley Neighborhood
Association Meeting
Canal Community Fair Human Trafficking
Awareness Forum
San Rafael City Schools
Board Meeting
25th Anniversary
Celebration of the
Jeannette Prandi Center
County Community Land
Trust Initiative Meeting
City Council Meetings
Marin County Sheriff
Civilian Oversight
Commission Meeting
West End Neighborhood
Association Annual Picnic
Nuestro Futura
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND FUTURE GOALS
The 2025 Annual Report emphasizes the PAAC's ongoing commitment to building trust, transparency, and collaboration between the San Rafael community and its Police Department. This report details the Committee's successes in creating comprehensive work plans, organizing engaging training sessions, and developing actionable recommendations. Each of these efforts aims to enhance community relations and ensure that policing practices align with the values and needs of the community we serve.
Throughout 2025, the PAAC advanced meaningful initiatives to promote accountability and deepen community understanding of public safety practices. Through collaborative discussions, presentations, and focused research, the Committee has made significant strides toward enhancing transparency and building a stronger foundation of mutual trust.
The PAAC is committed to evolving policing in San Rafael with community partnership.
We urge residents, business owners, and organizations to stay engaged in this dialogue to help create a safer, more inclusive, and equitable city. Collaboration and commitment will drive meaningful progress and ensure our Police Department reflects the community.
The PAAC appreciates the ongoing partnership of the San Rafael community, City leadership, and SRPD staff. In January 2026, the Committee will hold a special workshop to develop its annual work plan and set priorities for the coming year.
A1
APPENDIX
APPENDIX- STAFF RESPONSES TO PAAC RECOMMENDATIONS
This appendix provides formal staff responses to the recommendations made by the Police Advisory and Accountability Committee (“PAAC” or “Committee”). Each recommendation is presented alongside a detailed staff response intended to offer context, clarify operational considerations, and outline any actions taken or planned. The information is presented in a table format so readers can see the month the item was presented, the agenda topics discussed, PAAC’s recommendations, the status of the recommendation, and the formal staff response.
The purpose of this appendix is to ensure transparency, document the collaborative work between the PAAC, the City, and the San Rafael Police Department, and provide the community with a clear record of how recommendations were evaluated. Responses may include:
• operational or legal constraints.
• implementation steps already underway or completed.
• alternative approaches recommended by staff; or
• explanations when a recommendation cannot be implemented as originally proposed.
All responses reflect the best available information at the time of publication and are aligned with Department policies, City procedures, and applicable state and federal laws.
A 2
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses January
2024 Annual
Report
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena
moved to accept the 2024 PAAC
Annual Report with a change in
verbiage on page 10 of the Annual
Report from the term “recommendation”
to “topic” under the Youth and Policing
item, along with amending the
introductory language under the
Committee Recommendations section
to reflect that the recommendations
were diverse amongst Committee
members. Member Ruiz seconded the
motion. Motion passed 7-0.
Completed.
The 2024 PAAC Annual Report was
formally presented to the City Council on
February 18, 2025. Former Chair Kamena,
in collaboration with the PAAC Staff
Liaisons, delivered the presentation.
Downtown
Speed Limits,
Assembly Bill
43 (AB 43)
Recommendation 1: Members Alvarez,
Nguyen, Ruiz, and Valdez asked for
other areas of the City to be studied and
mentioned areas surrounding schools.
Completed.
Phase 1 of the project was presented to
the City Council by the Public Works
Department for consideration on February
18, 2025. In Phase 2 of the study, the City
is evaluating other roadways in San Rafael
that would be appropriate and follow the
same review and City Council approval
process for reduced speed limits described
above. Initial Phase 2 results were
presented to the Bicycle and Pedestrian
Advisory Committee on December 3,
2025, and will be presented to the Police
Advisory and Accountability Committee in
early 2026 prior to presentation to City
Council.
Recommendation 2: Member Alm
requested that Traffic Safety be
included as a discussion topic, which he
raised at the special meeting. He further
stated that it is a priority when he
speaks with community members.
Completed.
The PAAC identifies its priority topics for
the year through a collaborative,
consensus-based process. The 2026
Work Plan was discussed at the study
session on January 10, 2026. The topics of
Traffic and Traffic Safety were identified as
priority topics for the Committee in 2026.
A3
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses Recommendation 3: Member Alm
requested that the results of the Speed
Creep be provided, for a traffic study to
be conducted to include Second and
Third Street, increase traffic
enforcement on Second and Third
Street, and reduce the speed limit on
Miracle Mile from 35 to 30 mph.
Completed (Traffic Enforcement) Pending
(Additional Study).
Traffic safety and enforcement continue to
be key priorities for the SRPD. Throughout
2025, the Traffic Division focused on
rebuilding its staffing levels as resources
allowed. The division is currently staffed
with one Sergeant, one Corporal, and
three Officers, representing a significant
improvement from 2024, when it operated
with only one Sergeant and one Officer.
This increased staffing capacity allows for
a more consistent presence in traffic
enforcement, education, and collision
reduction efforts across the community.
The remaining portion of this
recommendation is pending in Phase 2 of
the study.
Recommendation 4: Member Ruiz
requested that all outreach materials for
AB 43 be translated into Spanish,
requested a speed survey, and
requested outreach in the Canal
neighborhood.
Completed (Translation)/Pending (Speed
Survey).
The Public Works Department has a
dedicated webpage for Assembly Bill 43
(AB43). This page includes an option to
translate all materials and information. You
can access this information at:
https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/traffic6/assembly-bill-ab-43-strategy-faq/. The remaining portion of this recommendation
is pending in Phase 2 of the study.
February
U.S. Customs
and
Immigration
California
Values Act
(SB 54)
Recommendation 1: Members Ruiz and
Valdez recommended that SRPD
provide outreach materials, such as an
FAQ, in both hard copy and online
formats to address misinformation and
share information with the community.
Completed.
https://www.srpd.org/transparency
The materials were produced and
distributed. SRPD supports efforts to
ensure that community members have
clear, accessible information about the law
and its implications.
Recommendation 2: Alternate Member
Locks requested that “Red Cards” be
provided.
Completed.
Recommendation 3: Members Alvarez
and Ruiz requested outreach efforts
and materials for youth through the
schools, so students can share them
with their families at home.
Completed.
A4
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses March
Racial Identity
and Profiling
Act (RIPA) AB
953
Recommendation 1: Members Ruiz and
Locks requested that a report be
produced that identifies mechanical
violations.
Completed.
This information was provided to the PAAC
at its May meeting. The Department is
committed to providing detailed reports
and statistical information whenever
possible.
Recommendation 2: Members Alm and
Locks requested to invite MVFREE to
return at a future meeting and provide a
presentation on RIPA.
Completed.
MVFREE presented at the May meeting.
The Department welcomes guest
presentations and values the opportunity
to engage with community members and
partner agencies while contributing to
community dialogue and learning.
Recommendation 3: Member Ruiz
inquired about the most common
violations and reasons for stops of
Latinx drivers.
Completed.
This information was provided to the PAAC
at its May meeting. The Department is
committed to providing detailed reports
and statistical information whenever
possible.
Recommendation 4: Member Alm
requested that the discussion on the
topic of RIPA be continued to a future
meeting.
Completed.
RIPA was placed on the May meeting
agenda. The Department continues to
provide detailed reports and thorough
statistical data whenever feasible.
Additionally, the Department encourages
guest presentations and appreciates
opportunities to connect with community
members and partner agencies.
A5
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses April
AB 481
Military
Equipment
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena
moved that the PAAC unanimously
support and recommend the Drone as a
First Responder (DFR) program to the
City Council. Member Davidi seconded
the motion. The motion passed 7-0.
Completed.
SRPD presented its Annual AB 481
Report, as required by statute, during the
City Council meeting on June 2, 2025. The
report included a request for the
acquisition of new equipment to support
the implementation of the Drone as a First
Responder (DFR) program. Following the
presentation, the City Council approved
the contract and associated purchases.
The DFR program has since entered the
implementation and training phases,
marking a significant step toward
expanding the Department’s technologydriven public safety initiatives. The San Rafael Police Department supports this
program, which also aligns with City
Council Strategic Plan Objective E.2.1,
Enhance community safety through
innovative programs that strengthen
neighborhood security and public safety,
and reduce emergency response times of
Police Priority 1 calls, and enhance
community safety and operational
efficiency.
May RIPA
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena
moved to recommend that SRPD adopt
a Bias by Proxy policy. Member Alm
seconded the motion. The motion
passed 7-0.
Completed.
The Department concurred with this
recommendation and implemented a new
policy to address Bias by Proxy. SRPD
Policy 401.1
A6
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses Recommendation 2: Member Alvarez
moved to recommend SRPD adopt
MVFREE’s recommendation #2- “Adopt
a one-year pilot program eliminating
pre-text stops.” Member Ruiz seconded
the motion. The motion passed 7-0.
The Department does not support
implementing this recommendation.
The Department does not support
implementing this recommendation.
Categorizing all administrative or
equipment-related stops as “pretextual”
oversimplifies the range of legitimate
enforcement actions officers undertake.
Proactive enforcement efforts, including
specific types of traffic stops, are vital in
enhancing public safety and meeting
community expectations for decreasing
crime. Additionally, many of these
violations, such as those related to
equipment failures or vehicle safety, are
essential for maintaining roadway safety
for both drivers and pedestrians.
Recommendation 3: Member Alm
moved to recommend SRPD adopt
MVFREE’s recommendation #3- “Use a
performance metric to monitor the
progress on recommended RIPA
strategies.” Member Kamena seconded
the motion. The motion passed 7-0.
Pending.
This item is under consideration. SRPD is
supportive and acknowledges the positive
impact of performance measures. This
recommendation aligns with the
development of an equity dashboard as
outlined in recommendation #4.
Recommendation 4: Member Alm
moved to recommend SRPD adopt
MVFREE’s recommendation #4-
“Establish an annual RIPA equity
assessment.” Member Kamena
seconded the motion. The motion
passed 7-0.
Pending.
This item is under consideration. The
Department strongly encourages a
collaborative effort with Committee
members in creating a transparent equity
dashboard for public access. This initiative
will not only promote accountability but
also foster community trust and
engagement.
Homelessness No formal motion was made following this presentation.
June Human
Trafficking
Recommendation 1: Member Davidi
moved to recommend that the City
allocate funding to SRPD to staff
additional investigators dedicated to
Human Trafficking investigations.
Member Kamena seconded the motion.
The motion passed 7-0.
Pending.
This item is under consideration. The
Department welcomes additional staff and
resources to investigate and combat these
types of cases, which are often very
challenging.
A7
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses Recommendation 2: Members Alm,
Alvarez, and Valdez requested that
staff provide additional statistics on
interactions, arrests, and calls for
service related to human trafficking.
Completed.
Staff provided the requested information at
the August 20, 2025, meeting. SRPD is
dedicated to sharing clear, data-driven
reports and statistical information that
enhances public understanding and
support evidence-based community
partnerships.
Recommendation 3: Member Kamena
recommended that the topic of digital
platforms used for grooming potential
human trafficking victims be included as
a discussion item in the 2026 Workplan.
Completed.
The PAAC discussed the 2026 Workplan
at a study session on January 10, 2026.
Human Trafficking was identified as a
priority topic for the Committee in
2026.SRPD staff are pleased to facilitate
discussions on each topic by providing
relevant data, presentations, and subjectmatter expertise to support informed dialogue and constructive
recommendations.
August Police Culture
Recommendation 1: Member Alvarez
commented that she wanted more
information specific to the culture of
SRPD.
Pending.
The PAAC discussed the 2026 Work Plan
at a study session on January 10, 2026.
Police Culture was identified as a priority
topic for the Committee in 2026. Staff
encourages members to be specific and
intentional when providing feedback or
recommendations regarding desired
content, focus areas, and outcomes to
ensure that future discussions are
meaningful and productive.
September Meeting Canceled
October Police Culture
Recommendation 1: Member Alm
recommended that SRPD conduct an
Annual Employee Engagement survey
to measure culture.
Pending.
This recommendation is under
consideration. Staff appreciates the
recommendation to conduct an Annual
Employee Engagement Survey as a way to
assess and monitor organizational culture.
SRPD recognizes the value of measuring
employee perspectives to support a
healthy, transparent, and inclusive
workplace. The Department will explore
potential options for implementing a survey
process that aligns with existing City
policies, confidentiality standards, and
available resources.
A8
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses Recommendation 2: Member Alm
recommended more communication
and outreach with the community to
better understand their interests and
priorities related to this topic and to
bring this topic back for the 2026
Workplan.
Pending.
The PAAC discussed the 2026 Workplan
at a study session on January 10, 2026.
The Committee identified Police Culture as
a priority topic. Recommendations 2-4 are
pending inclusion into a presentation at a
future PAAC meeting in 2026. Staff
encourages members to be specific and
intentional when providing feedback or
recommendations regarding desired
content, focus areas, and outcomes to
ensure that future discussions are
meaningful and productive. Additionally,
the coordination of guest speakers or
presentations will require collaboration
with staff to ensure that all deadlines are
met in compliance with the Brown Act,
including the timely preparation and review
of staff reports, agenda materials, and
scheduling requirements.
Recommendation 3: Alternate Member
Locks made several recommendations
and comments. She expressed her
desire to coordinate a guest
presentation on this topic in 2026.
Member Locks referenced a Stanford
professor who was a guest speaker and
with whom she spoke during the
NACOLE Regional Meeting in August.
She further noted that while the
presentation on Police Culture focused
on wellness, she is looking for a
presentation that more specifically
addresses cultural issues, the efforts
being made to build trust, and strategies
to reduce lawlessness, mistreatment,
and crime.
Recommendation 4: Members Kamena
and Tokolahi noted that if this topic is to
be included in the 2026 Workplan,
additional efforts should be made to
solicit feedback from the community to
better understand their perspectives
and specific requests related to the
issue.
RIPA - Work
Group Update
Please refer to page 16 for the findings
of the PAAC Working Group. Pending.
The Police Department is analyzing the
RIPA Working Group’s recommendations.
November Transparency No formal motion was made following this presentation.
A9
Month Agenda
Topics PAAC Recommendations Status Updates Staff Updates & Responses Chair and Vice
Chair
Selections
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena
moved to have Vice Chair Davidi serve
as Chair, and Member Alm serve as
Vice Chair for the 2026 term. There was
not a second on the motion, and
Member Kamena withdrew the motion.
Member Kamena moved to select ViceChair Davidi as the Chair for 2026.
Member Alm seconded the motion. The
motion passed 7-0.
Completed. Member Davidi will serve as Chair in 2026.
Recommendation 2: Member Kamena
moved to select Member Ruiz as the
Vice-Chair for 2026. Member Alm
seconded the motion. The motion
passed 7-0.
Completed. Member Ruiz will serve as Vice Chair in
2026.
2026 Meeting
Schedule
Recommendation 1: Member Kamena
moved to defer the item to the January
10, 2026, Workplan Study Session.
Member Alm seconded the motion. The
motion passed 7-0.
Completed.
The 2026 meeting schedule was
discussed during the Workplan Study
Session on January 10, 2026. The
Committee unanimously adopted the 2026
meeting schedule with the exception of a
February meeting date, due to conflicts
with religious observances. An alternate
February meeting date will be selected
during the regular PAAC meeting on
January 21, 2026.
2025 Annual
Report
Recommendation 1: Member Alm
asked for less weight in the report to be
allocated to the Working Group
subsection and wanted to exclude the
SRPD response from the report or
move it to an appendix section.
Pending.
A revised draft 2025 Annual Report will be
presented at the January 21, 2026, PAAC
meeting.
Recommendation 2: Member Kamena
stated she did not want to exclude the
Working Group subsection of the
report.
Recommendation 3: Alternate Member
Locks shared that she felt the Working
Group subsection was out of proportion
to the report.