Title
Consideration of Adding In-Person Public Comment to Community Policing Board Meeting Agendas
Recommended Action
Move to approve the addition of an opportunity for in-person public comment to Community Policing Board regular meeting agendas moving forward.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve the addition of an opportunity for in-person public comment to Community Policing Board regular meeting agendas moving forward.
Staff Contact:
Margo Morales Community Engagement Program Specialist, City Manager’s Office, 360.753.8150
Presenter(s):
Margo Morales, Community Engagement Program Specialist
Background and Analysis:
In March 2025, the City Council approved amendments to Olympia Municipal Code to establish a Community Policing Board (Board). The purpose of the Board is to ensure accountability and transparency related to the Olympia Police Department.
The City has a variety of advisory bodies, and each body has a different approach to how they receive public comments to inform recommendations and to provide feedback to the City Council on a variety of issues. At the Board’s first meeting in November 2025, members discussed the format of regular meetings and public comment collected in writing.
At the Board’s March 2026 regular meeting, it was suggested to include in-person public comment at the end of the Board’s regular meeting agendas. The Board expressed the desire to discuss the proposal at a future meeting.
The purpose of this agenda item is for the Board to discuss whether to add an opportunity for in-person public comment to its regular meeting agendas or continue to accept public comment in writing only.
Climate Analysis:
This project is not expected to have an impact on greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
The intent of the Community Policing Board is to enhance community involvement in law enforcement. Creating additional methods and opportunities for community members to provide comment directly to the Board expands opportunities for diverse perspectives and experiences to be considered in the Board’s feedback to the Civilian Police Auditor and the City Council.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
There’s broad community interest in community involvement in law enforcement, including the role of the Community Policing Board. Ensuring the Board has an effective method for receiving public comment will support the Board in effectively representing community perspectives.
Options:
1. Move to approve the addition of an opportunity for in-person public comment to Community Policing Board regular meeting agendas moving forward.
2. Continue to receive public comments in writing only, as is current practice.
3. Take other action.
Financial Impact:
There is no financial impact created by this discussion.
Attachments:
None