Seattle residents invited to give input on search for police chief
SEATTLE - Seattle residents have been invited to share their input on what the city should prioritize in its search for the next police chief of the Seattle Police Department.
What we know:
The first of the events occurred on Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. at the Van Asselt Community Center Gym. The next one is set to take place on Monday at the Seattle University Campion Ballroom from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
On Sept. 30, a community listening session will be held at the North Seattle Community College's World Community Center, 9600 College Way N, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The city says the event is open to everyone and asks attendees to share their perspective on the skills, experience, and priorities that the next police chief should bring to the role.
To register, residents can visit this link and fill out the form. The form asks for a name, email, and zip code along with any accessibility needs someone may require at the event.
The city holds the events in partnership with Seattle Neighborhood Group. The listening session at North Seattle Community College marks the third public forum allowing the community to provide input on the search for the SPD's next police chief.
What they're saying:
"Everyone has the right to feel safe in their city and their neighborhood," a news release for the event said. "The Seattle Police Department (SPD) plays an integral role alongside business and community groups, service providers and first responders. The next permanent Chief of Police will lead SPD in shaping a public safety system that matches our city’s values and priorities."
"We are here to answer the question what qualities do we want to see in our next police chief," Aaron Yoon, Executive Director for Seattle Neighborhood Group said. "We have four questions today, asking about experience, character, trust building and what would you like to see them accomplish."
Donna Stringer, who lives in Columbia City, said, "We need a police chief that is committed to this city, and I don’t believe the last one was."
Bruce Jackson, a Seattle resident, said, "I think we have to find ways to bridge our gaps and hopefully this next person will be that person who bridges those gaps."
What's next:
Mayor Wilson has released a timeline for the city's search for a police chief, saying that community outreach and engagement is expected to continue through September and October
Once completed, a candidate review will take place before an exam and final interviews are conducted by the mayor.
Mayor Wilson has said that she expects to make a decision by the beginning of next year.
The Source: Information for this story came from the City of Seattle and original reporting by FOX 13 Seattle reporter Shirah Matsuzawa, who spoke with officials within Seattle Neighborhood Group and spoke with Seattle residents from various neighborhoods to hear their opinion on this topic.
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