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Report regarding a resolution authorizing the acceptance of a donation of two Police eBikes valued at $11,235.57 from Genentech, Inc., adding to the police fleet to be used by C.O.T (Community Outreach Team). (Scott Campbell, Chief of Police)
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RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution accepting a donation of two Police eBikes valued at $11,235.57 from Genentech, Inc., adding to the police fleet to be used by C.O.T (Community Outreach Team).
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BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION
In December 2022, Genentech, Inc. reached out to the City of South San Francisco’s Police Department staff regarding the possibility of donating two eBikes (electronic bikes) from the American Bike Patrol Services Inc.
The use of eBikes will enable officers to patrol areas that may not be accessible by vehicles, such as the Centennial Trail, Bay Trail, and accessing homeless encampments. The eBike is capable of moving any officer to speeds of up to 28 mph quickly, via pedal or throttle. The eBike is built for officer needs or urban terrain, specializing in going over curbs, down stairs or other high-impact maneuvers.
The difference between eBikes and standard pedal bicycles lies in the motorized system which can operate from a throttle or pedal assist - meaning the motor kicks in as the rider pedals the bike, increasing in speed as the rider increases their pedaling.
eBikes benefits versus a standard pedal bicycle:
• Access to more areas - allows officers to reach areas not accessible by vehicles and can keep up with people on traditional bikes with ease, intermediate maneuverability between a standard police bike and police motorcycle
• Less threatening - bike patrol officers are generally considered more approachable than their counterparts in patrol cars
• Improved community outreach - C.O.T places officers in the heart of their communities, facilitating more chances to have positive interactions with residents
• Greater stealth - C.O.T. offers a greater chance to prevent crime due to the stealth factor offered by a bike versus a patrol car
The police department currently has five standard pedal bikes in the fleet. Adding eBikes to the fleet will only enhance the service we will provide to our community and residents.
FISCAL IMPACT
Receipt of this donation will have no fiscal impact to the City’s general fund.
RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN
Acceptance of this meets Strategic Goal #3: Public Safety by rendering skilled police, fire and emergency service management and Strategic Goal #5: Supporting the economic vitality of the downtown area.
CONCLUSION
Staff recommends that City Council adopt a resolution authorizing the acceptance of a donation of two Police eBikes valued at $11,235.57 from Genentech, Inc., adding to the police fleet to be used by C.O.T.