Ross--Very interested on the other feedback you get as this will be a discussion for Bakersfield too, as we are adding Park Rangers.  Also, there will be vetting for body cameras for these park rangers and these are not sworn positions.  

SB does not permit staff to carry any form of weapon in the workplace - including pepper spray. The only staff authorized to carry a weapon in a public building or workplace is on-duty law enforcement.

Aggressive interactions with staff (not just Parks) is not unique to Santa Cruz. Staff from several operations (Parks, Library, Building Inspectors, etc.) asked SB about carrying pepper spray. SB declined the request for several reasons. A key component in the denial of the request is the use of pepper spray may not improve the interaction or safety of the staff. The use of pepper spray may escalate the issue leading to unwanted consequences - injuries and claims. 

SB trains staff to disengage, leave the area, call for police assistance, and document the encounter. We see teh documentation component as the missing link. The documentation moves the needle from anecdotal memories to actionable data. Documenting the encounter allows management (including Risk) to assess any changes or improvements in how staff deliver services and directing other community agencies to direct their services into needed locations or areas.    

No. We do not permit this.