Board of Police Commissioners urges public to view Chief of Police

candidate interviews on YouTube, Zoom, CityTV, and other channels

as COVID-19 cases rise again

With COVID-19 cases increasing again, Board of Police Commissioners Chair Jim Holley is reminding the public about expanded options to view and participate in BOPC meetings.

“This deadly disease and its variants clearly remain a very serious threat, and we are seeing many events canceled or returning to virtual only,” said Holley. “The Board will continue to meet in person, but we have expanded access to give everyone the best chance to see and participate at a time when CDC guidelines for public meetings really limit the space for public seating.”

The Board resumed in-person meetings on August 5, 2021 after emergency health orders expired. However, the Board is observing CDC guidelines for vaccinations, screenings, social distancing, masks, and other precautions for Board members and staff, as well as meeting participants and presenters in the Police Department.

Social distancing requirements use significantly more space to hold Board meetings, which at the same time limits space available for the public. At the in-person meeting last week, less than 10 seats were available, and presenters were not allowed in at the same time to ensure safeguards.

Through the City’s Media Services division, BOPC meetings now are available on YouTube, City TV, and other channels. The Board staff also uses the Zoom link to show the in-person meeting live and to allow participants to participate in public comments. Last week, almost 70 people joined on those platforms and several participated in public comments.

“Until we really defeat COVID-19, these expanded options are important to give all residents and other stakeholders the best, risk-free opportunity to see and take part in every Board meeting, including this Thursday’s community meeting with interviews of candidates for Chief of Police,” said Holley. “We know the interest is very high and hope to see hundreds of interested people on YouTube, Zoom, and other channels.”

The community meeting, hosted by CNS Healthcare’s Northeast Integrated Health at 2900 Conner in the 5^th Precinct service area, will have about 20 seats; however, it also has more meeting participants and presenters. Everyone will undergo COVID-19 screening at entry.

The interviews for Chief of Police are the latest step in the City Charter-mandated process that requires the Board to conduct a national search and to select three finalists to submit to the Mayor for his appointment. The Mayor’s appointment is subject to City Council approval.