I met with Chief Matulavich and members of his command staff a year-and-a-half ago to discuss this very issue. At that time, Chief Matulavich did not agree to allow such owners to employ off duty officers.

As of today, under the authority granted me by the city charter, I am modifying the policy of the Akron Police Department regarding secondary employment.

Effective immediately, business owners who request such services and who are able to demonstrate a need for off-duty Akron police officers - including Bungalo 5 - will be able to receive such services on a trial basis.

Offers of secondary employment are dependent on the availability of officers who choose to accept such employment.

This new policy will be in effect through October of this year, and will be evaluated thereafter.

If establishments who obtain this new level of security - including Bungalo 5 - are unable to create a safe environment for patrons and residents of the area, the City will use all available measures to appeal their license renewals to the Ohio Department of Liquor Control.