KBIA Local
(2009-08-04)
COLUMBIA, MO
(KBIA) -
More structure is still needed for Columbia's Citizen Review Board. At last night's City Council meeting, members suggested creating an application process and in-depth training sessions. Only weeks ago (July 21), the Council approved the establishment of a nine-person Citizens Review Board to hear complaints brought against the Police Department. Since then, the city clerk says she's received numerous inquiries, but has only been collecting names so far. Councilmember Laura Nauser says before people commit themselves, she and the board want to make it clear what will be expected of members.
"We want to make sure that when people apply to this board they know there's going to be a requirement for them to attend a certain amount of training so they can be knowledgeable and versed in what they're going to be addressing in the future."
The council also discussed whether to establish a maximum number of meetings that could be missed by a citizen review board member. Nauser says it's a very important board and it has to have the utmost integrity and qualifications for individuals applying for it. The council will conduct interviews and simultaneously develop a training plan in order to get the ball rolling. The city ordinance establishing the board takes effect January. Although she says sh'ed like to have a board appointed by then, Nauser says she'd rather have things done right and postpone them if necessary.
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