As part of a broader response to police reform following high profile incidents of police brutality in the summer of 2020, Redwood City is set to form an 11-member Police Advisory Committee that aims to ensure accountability and transparency at the Redwood City Police Department.
The committee will have 11 council-appointed community representatives that will report to the City Council and advise the police chief. It may review policies including those related to use of force or body worn cameras, discuss crime and policing practices, review data on crime and police interactions or receive annual reports on police personnel complaints. However, the committee is legally unable to participate in departmental personnel and disciplinary actions, ongoing criminal or internal investigations, active critical incident and civic and criminal litigation, the city said.
“Each Council Member will appoint one member to a two-year term, and the full Council will appoint four members to four-year terms,” the city said, adding, “The Police Advisory Committee will develop its annual work plan in partnership with staff from the Office of the City Manager and the Chief of Police. The Committee will present its work plan to the City Council.”
The city aims to have a committee that reflects the diversity of Redwood City. Interesting in becoming a member? Complete an application online no later than March 31 by clicking here.
The committee is among several steps the city has taken in an attempt to satisfy demands in the community to reform policing. One includes a partnership with the County to have mental health clinicians accompany officers on calls involving individuals in crisis.
Photo credited to the Redwood City Police Department
