In conclusion, I would like to point out that the direction being taken by the District government in terms of infrastructure protection is very similar to the model that has been adopted by the federal government. Under the reorganization plan that created the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Protective Service, which is responsible for protecting many federal government facilities, was moved out of the General Services Administration and into Homeland Security. This move, like the one we are contemplating here in the District, recognizes two critical realities: first, that government buildings and other infrastructure represent very real targets for terrorism; and second, that integrating protective services into a larger public safety operation enhances coordination and provides for a more comprehensive and seamless approach to protecting our cities and our infrastructure.

 

Assistant Chief Wilson and I personally know the local leadership of the Federal Protective Service, and we have already spoken with them about the issues, challenges and opportunities facing our respective security operations at the federal and local levels. That dialogue will continue as we work to learn from the federal experience in this area and to make our own Protective Services Division a model of professionalism and excellence at the local level.

 

Thank you again. Chief Wilson and I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.