In response to the death of Minneapolis resident George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers on May 25, 2020 and the ensuing public anger and widespread protests that reached every corner of this nation, Mayor John Aguilar has called for a community discussion on race, policing, and economic opportunities in Cathedral City. Police Chief George Crum will provide a brief update on policy changes made in the department, training provided to officers and a planned strategic plan update. He will also examine the calls for service the department receives, which ones require response by a Police Officer, and which might be better handled by non-sworn personnel. The Cathedral City Police Department has and continues to be committed to serving our community and protecting the life and property and the rights of all the people of our city.
The community can participate in the discussion, which will be held virtually. Residents who want to speak, must register using the following link:Â
Cathedral City has been a leader in promoting a culture of non-discrimination and protecting the rights of the people of the community as evidenced by:
- Adoption of prohibitions against arbitrary discrimination (CCMC 11.88) occurred early in the city’s history (1987) and code was amending twice thereafter to expand protections to additional groups. The protections also apply to employment, business, education and real estate transactions.
- Adoption of a Sanctuary City resolution in 2017.
- Adoption of an ordinance requiring that single stall restrooms be gender neutral (CCMC 5.86) in 2015.
- Promotion of events celebrating the richness of our diverse community including Cathedral City LGBT Days, Tejano Music Festival and Taste of Jalisco.
The purpose of the listening session is to allow the Councilmembers to hear from the community. It will not be a question and answer format. Councilmembers will likely not respond to speakers during the meeting and they will not be taking any action. Instead they will listen, learn from the people who speak, and determine what steps, if any, may be needed to be take at a future date.
