Title
Community Oversight of Law Enforcement Open House
Recommended Action
Information Only. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Community Oversight of Law Enforcement Open House
Staff Contact:
Margo Morales, Community Engagement Program Specialist, Organizational Development and Performance, 360.753.8150
Presenter(s):
Michael Gennaco, OIR Group, Civilian Police Auditor
Margo Morales, Community Engagement Program Specialist
Background and Analysis:
On July 9, 2024 the City Council approved the Social Justice and Equity Commission’s recommendations for community involvement in law enforcement, including the creation of a Community Policing Board and expanded responsibilities for the Civilian Police Auditor. Since receiving Council approval multiple actions have taken place to recruit and hire a new Civilian Police Auditor and establish the Community Policing Board.
On October 16, 2025 the newly appointed Community Policing Board will have a brief meeting with the Civilian Police Auditor from 6:00-6:30 pm for introductions and preparation for the Open House. The Community Oversight of Law Enforcement Open House starting at 6:30 pm will include a short presentation on the function and expanded roll of these programs within Olympia’s police oversight system, followed by community conversations to help guide the Civilian Police Auditor and Community Policing Board in future community engagement and education initiatives.
Climate Analysis:
This is not expected to have an impact on greenhouse gas emissions.
Equity Analysis:
The process by which the Social Justice and Equity Commission developed their recommendations was a collaborative one that involved a community member work group and representatives from the Olympia Police Department. Subsequently, the final recommendations are representative of a diversity of lived experiences and perspectives and reflect community values on social justice and equity.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Community groups, especially those most impacted by policing, and underrepresented community groups have requested community involvement and oversight in law enforcement. The establishment of a Community Policing Board and requirement for the Civilian Police Auditor to do regular community engagement contribute to more community members having the opportunity to be involved in local law enforcement.
Options:
Information Only. No action requested.
Attachments:
Open House Agenda