Title
Communications Committee Meeting of September 18, 2014
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The minutes from the June meeting were circulated for approval. Motion: Les Pantin motioned to approve the June meeting minutes. Connie Crowther seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Higgins Fallon discussed the current situation and would like the advice of Communications Committee members on how to best assist in improving communications about the Police Department issues. The City has a new Interim Police Chief. Higgins Fallon met last Monday with Interim Police Chief Ed Hudak and was asked to collaborate in conjunction with Police PIO to address police communications with citizens.
Chairperson Herb Levin said that the main communication issue was clarifying whether the crime statistics given were really accurate. Connie Crowther agreed that this information needs to be published and informed in a better way. Luba DeWitt said that one must be careful on how the crime statistics are presented to the public.
Crowther also said that the message should be "it's a new day, and we have a new Police Chief, and things are being done to combat crime." Higgins Fallon will work on preparing a communications plan for the Police Chief's use and will get more involved in a collaborative role with the Police Department. Levin complimented Higgins Fallon for performing well under fire. Higgins Fallon thanked him and introduced Public Affairs Specialist Rodolfo Roman as a new staff member in her department.
Communications Committee membership
Motion: Herb Levin motioned to invite Luba DeWitt to continue her service as a member of the Communications Committee. Connie Crowther seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Crowther distributed the new directory of the Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce. Higgins Fallon also distributed the latest e-News issue. With no further issues to discuss, the meeting was adjourned.