SEASIDE POLICE DEPARTMENT Vicki L.H. Myers, Chief of Police Louis Lumpkin, Deputy Chief Honor, Pride, and Commitment 440 Harcourt Avenue Telephone (831) 899-6748 Seaside, CA 93955 FAX (831) 899-6297 TDD (831) 899-6217 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 6, 2015 Earlier today, the Seaside Police Officer's Association, and the Pacific Grove Police Officer's Association reiterated their vote of no confidence against Police Chief Vicki Myers According to Chief Myers; “Change is always difficult. Policing today is different than it used to be, even from just a few years ago. | understand the frustration of our police officers. Providing police services in this modern period are difficult and often under- appreciated. There is greater public scrutiny with greater accountability. In addition, due to staffing levels, the hours are often long and personnel cannot always have the time off that they would like, or work the hours/days that they prefer. Alll of this can be very stressful for our police officers and police personnel.” Both departments stepped up recruitment efforts as vacancies occurred, but the process is slow. As with many agencies throughout California, finding good, qualified police officer candidates who are able to pass the extensive back-ground check is challenging. There have also been personnel off on long term injuries, which further decreases staffing. Seaside is working hard to address these issues despite financial challenges. Seaside recently funded two additional police officers and one police sergeant, but had to dip into reserve funds to do so. Chief Myers says she remains committed to hearing and addressing any concems in a positive and collaborative manner; to improving working conditions, and building relationships between the management team, the supervisors and the officers on the beat, with a focus on how to best serve the community. “My efforts have been and will continue to be in that direction. | am very proud of the amazing people in both departments, the incredible work they are doing, and the direction we are going.” Contact: Chief V. Myers 831/899-6748, ‘The mission of the Seaside Police Department is to provide quality police services, in partnership with our community, to enfiance and maintain a safe environment. SPO_72011