Proposed changes to the makeup of Columbus’ Audit and Review Committee for Citizen and Police Relations have some residents concerned. Currently, the committee has designated seats for the local NAACP and the African-American Pastor’s Alliance. Proposed changes would have no designated seats set aside for any one group. Those serving would be appointed by the mayor. Aida Ramirez, with the city’s Human Rights Commission, explains why…
Mary Ferdon, the city’s director of administration, stresses that it is the goal of the mayor to accurately reflect the demographics of Columbus and ensure that all voices are heard when it comes to making these appointments.
The purpose of the board is to hear appeals made by residents who are unsatisfied with how a complaint to the Columbus Police Department is handled. Currently, complaints are investigated by CPD with the results shared with the party making the complaint. If the person who registered the complaint is not satisfied with any aspect of the initial investigation, they can appeal it to the board.
Ferdon adds that a public forum to further discuss these proposed changes is set for Feb. 19th at Donner Center.