If we'd like to reintroduce community-oriented policing as opposed to the current quasi-military style of policing in Ithaca, we might as well start NOW.

On Sep 3rd, Common Council is expected to accept a $100,000 grant for the SWAT team.  The details are online in the "Minutes and Agenda" section of the City of Ithaca web site for the August 6th meeting.    http://www.egovlink.com/public_documents300/ithaca/published_documents/Agendas/Common_Council/2014/08-14/08-06-14%20Common%20Council%20Meeting%20Agenda1.pdf.  The vote was supposed to happen then, but no one of IPD was present.

Help Common Council & the Mayor understand that we would like them to TAKE CONCRETE ACTION that they have understood that the IPD culture has to change and it has to happen NOW.

As you can see on pp. 22-26 of the Common Council Meeting Agenda, the items to be purchased are protective gear & training, not weapons.  Nevertheless, the act of purchasing them implies that Ithaca is potentially a war zone, occupied territory in which IPD needs to be protected from us, the community.  THAT LINE OF REASONING HAS TO STOP.  It is not necessary for every small city in the USA to own such equipment. For the very rare occasions that it is needed, State Police & National Guard could provide this equipment.

If you agree, please sign this petition.

If you would like to help with organizing this presentation to City Administration, come to the meeting at 3 PM on Sunday, August 24th at St. James AME Church a 116 Cleveland Av.

Not in my name; not here - not anywhere; this is grassroots community; together we do better.