PAB Regular Meeting Summary for January 5th, 2023
To see a recording of this meeting, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAQCyjWmWO8Larry Knox introduced the newly appointed Interim Executive Director, Sherry Walker-Cowert, who gave a brief staff report.
- She has been meeting one-on-one with staff and attending training in the two days she has been in her position. Following the continuation of these staff discussions, she will decide the most important next steps.
- As of December 30th, responses from the Rochester Police Department have been received for 44 of 49 cases referred to them for additional information.
- A priority for the Board and staff is ensuring that Sherry has what she needs to succeed.
- A focus for the new year will be increased accountability on the part of PAB and the Board.
Old business
The Board still has an open seat and the appointment is many months overdue. The community needs full representation on the Board and there is much work that has to be done to bring on a new member. The public is encouraged to inform City Council of their concerns about this delay.
New business
A legislative proposal concerning Board reform was passed by the City Council in December. PAB did not know about the proposal in advance and it is hoped that in the future, prior notice will be given with opportunities to collaborate with the Council before final decisions are made. Concern about the effects of the legislation has been expressed by PAB staff, the PAB Alliance and others. The Board will be following up with legal counsel once the legislation is better understood. If the public has concerns, they should communicate those to the City Council.
The meeting was adjourned.
Observed by Deborah Rice Gordon