Item 3D: Appointment to Police Commission

Home Browse Search

Police Commission February 18, 2009 Honorable Mayor Kitty Piercy 777 Pearl Street, Room 105 Eugene, OR 97401 Dear Mayor Piercy, Last month one of the members of the Police Commission, Chuck Hare, elected to resign. Following a two-week recruitment process, we invited four applicants to an informational meeting. A group of three commissioners (Tamara Miller, Chair; Joe Alsup, Vice Chair; and Juan Carlos Valle) and staff met with the four applicants. The purpose of the meetings was to develop a recommendation for applicants who seemed most qualified to take on the important work of the commission, and would help maintain a membership that is reflective of our community. Some characteristics of interest included age, gender, ethnicity, location of residence, perspectives/life experience, and connections with other community groups. Each applicant was evaluated on responses to questions regarding their experience developing policy and resource recommendations, their opinions on the three most critical policing issues facing the City, and their suggestions on how they would ascertain what community values are for Eugene residents. The candidate pool was rather disappointing, with few capable and accomplished individuals. Only two candidates stood out from the group during the meetings and have our recommendation. If you do not concur with the two recommended candidates, we will support a decision to reopen the recruitment process. Mr. Frank Travis was very concerned about raising his three children in a safe community and wanted to ensure that schools are equipped with the best public safety resources. He was interested in seeing the Police Department increase its involvement in schools and prevent drug use early on. As a commission member, he would take a proactive approach to crime and participate in prevention planning. In addition, he demonstrated a high level of enthusiasm for being involved in City activities and being a more active resident of Eugene. Mr. Jim Hale is a Real Estate Broker who has been very active in local government committees and associations. He has participated on advisory boards, budget committees, and neighborhood transportation plans. He is aware of the most critical policing issues facing the Eugene Police Department which is a good background to have coming into this role. He did mention that he is also a candidate for the Civilian Review Board, but a decision has yet to be made regarding that vacancy. Since its inception, the Police Commission has had a diverse and dedicated membership that is representative of the community it serves, and we are appreciative of the consideration given to the appointment process. We understand that this will be a difficult selection for you, and hope that these recommendations will assist in your decision. Please do not hesitate to contact either of us if you would like further comments on the candidates. Sincerely, Tamara Miller, Chair Joe Alsup, Vice Chair Eugene Police Commission Eugene Police Commission 686-7198 687-3371 We strive to create a climate of mutual respect and partnership between the community and the Police Department that helps achieve safety, justice and freedom for all people in Eugene.