HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-27-20 Public Comment - K. Meeker - Inclusive City Report Comment for 7_27 meetingFrom:Kelly Meeker
To:Agenda
Subject:Comment for 7/27 meeting
Date:Monday, July 27, 2020 7:23:53 AM
Hi there City Commission,
As you review the City of Bozeman's policies regarding inclusivity, I'd like you to consider
creating more ways for the public to participate in reviewing the Bozeman PoliceDepartment's policies and use of force. Specifically, I'd like you to create a Civilian Review
Board.
The current Police Commission “conducts hearings and decides on appeals brought by anymember of the Police Department who has been disciplined, suspended, removed or
discharged”. This is vastly inadequate for transparent oversight.
Please create a venue for community representatives to work with the City of Bozeman toprovide additional oversight for the Bozeman Police Department. Ideally, a Civilian Review
Board should be independent, operate transparently, and have the authority to investigatepolice actions.
I've also seen that Judith Heilman, Executive Director of the Montana Racial Equity Project, is
interested in being appointed to the current Police Commission. I enthusiastically support thispotential appointment, as she has policing experience and expertise that will enable our
community to ensure our police department is operating with equity and inclusion at theforefront of its goals.
Sincerely,
Kelly Meeker
2741 Allison CtBozeman MT 59718