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COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
City Manager’s Office
GENERAL INFORMATION
Agenda Date: 09/12/05 Communication No.: 05-518
Agenda Item Type: Resolution Roll Call No.:
Submitted by: Bill McCarthy, Chief of Police
SUBJECT—
Lease Agreement with HOLA Center.
SYNOPSIS—
Authorizes a three-year lease agreement with the HOLA Center (Hispanic Outreach with Legal Assistance Resource Center), located at 618 East 18th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50316, for office space to house two Des Moines police officers.
FISCAL IMPACT—
The Police Operating Budget will fund the space identified at $416.67 per month.
RECOMMENDATION—
Approval
BACKGROUND—
For several years, the Hispanic population of Des Moines has been increasing. The language and cultural customs of the members of this ethnic group have made it difficult for them to participate in available public safety and human services. In an effort to improve this situation, community and neighborhood leaders in conjunction with the Roman Catholic Diocese have created the HOLA Center. The HOLA Center is a renovated school building that provides office space to several government and private agencies that assist the growing Hispanic community. Some of the organizations involved include Polk County and the State of Iowa.
Law enforcement assistance is also provided by the Des Moines Police Department at the HOLA Center. An office space has recently been identified at the HOLA Center to house two police officers and their office equipment. The Police Department desires to maintain a close relationship with the Hispanic community. Locating two officers at the Center will make the officers more available and responsive to community needs.
All parties have agreed to the lease which now requires City Council approval to complete the process.