“The Transition from Half Moon Bay Police Dept. to San Mateo County Sheriff’s Dept.: How Will the Community and Officers Adjust?”
Free public forum welcomes Lt. Lisa Williams and moderator Council Member Marina Fraser
The Half Moon Bay City Council voted on April 2 to outsource the city’s police department in an effort to save money. After protecting and serving its community for over 50 years, the Half Moon Bay Police Department is now in the process of transitioning their facilities, personnel and operations to the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office. Interim Police Chief Lee Violett estimates that there will be a 50% decrease in cost three years from the transition.
The Half Moon Bay Brewing Company invites the public to participate in a friendly and open community forum on the transition, led by Lt. Lisa Williams of the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, who will be in command of the Half Moon Bay and Coastside law enforcement after the merge. Half Moon Bay Council Member Marina Fraser will moderate. The discussion will attempt to address the many questions the community has about the city’s decision. What should Coastsiders expect from this major shift in the public’s system? How will it affect the community and public safety? How is the transition going? How can citizens give feedback and help?
Lt. Lisa Williams is a 26-year veteran of the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office. She began her career as a secretary before being promoted through the ranks as Correctional Officer, Deputy Sheriff, Sergeant, and currently as Sheriff’s Lieutenant. She has worked in all divisions of the Sheriff’s Office, with assignments that included Patrol, Investigations, and Training and Corrections. Lieutenant Williams was the Public Information Officer on behalf of the Sheriff during the Scott Peterson Trial. Prior to her current assignment, Lt. Williams established a transitional facility and programming for men and women at the Maple Street Correctional Complex in Redwood City. Through collaboration with nonprofits and community groups, Lt. Williams was able to establish programs within the facility that were designed to reduce recidivism and prepare inmates for release back into their communities. Two of the most notable programs are Culinary Arts and the TAILS Program with the Peninsula Humane Society. Lt. Williams is a local resident and is currently responsible for law enforcement services on the Coastside.
Admission and snacks are complimentary. Beer, wine, and other beverages will be available for sale at the event. Ten percent of the proceeds from all dinner sales at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company for this event will be donated to the Cabrillo Education Foundation.
Thursday, July 7, 6 to 8 p.m.
The Half Moon Bay Brewing Company
390 Capistrano Road, Princeton-by-the-Sea, Calif.