Elgin, IL – The City of Elgin is seeking qualified applicants for its newly established Civilian Review Board (CRB). This independent body will play a crucial role in evaluating the Elgin Police Department’s practices and ensuring transparency and equity in law enforcement activities.
The CRB’s primary functions include reviewing and assessing the police department’s efforts in promoting racial, gender, and cultural diversity in officer recruitment and training. Additionally, the board will provide an objective review of civilian complaints and the consistency of disciplinary measures imposed by the department.
CRB Structure and Terms
The CRB will consist of nine members. To ensure balanced representation, at least four members must reside east of the Fox River, and at least four must reside west of the Fox River. For the inaugural appointments in 2024, three members will serve four-year terms, three will serve three-year terms, and three will serve two-year terms. Subsequent appointments will be for three-year terms, except to fill unexpired terms.
The CRB’s chairperson will be elected by board members for a one-year term.
Selection Process
The Civilian Review Board Selection Committee, which includes the Elgin Police Chief, a full-time police officer from the bargaining unit, and three members of the Community Task Force on Policing, will oversee the review and interview process. All proceedings will comply with the Illinois Open Meetings Act, ensuring transparency and public access to meetings.
The Selection Committee will provide its recommendations to the Elgin City Council within sixty days following the application deadline. The City Council will make the final appointment decisions, also in accordance with the Illinois Open Meetings Act.
Eligibility and Training
Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include a background check to ensure compliance with CRB ordinance requirements regarding forcible felonies and crimes of dishonesty. Additionally, board members must complete sixteen hours of training, a prerequisite for serving on the CRB.
Public Engagement
As mandated by the Illinois Open Meetings Act and Freedom of Information Act, all CRB meetings will be open to the public, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Application Details
Interested individuals are encouraged to submit their applications to the Elgin City Clerk by August 30, 2024. For further information on the application process and eligibility criteria, please click here.
About the Civilian Review Board
The CRB is dedicated to enhancing the accountability of the Elgin Police Department and fostering trust within the community. By providing an external perspective on police practices and civilian complaints, the CRB aims to support fair and impartial law enforcement.
Media Contact:
Kim Dewis
City Clerk
City of Elgin
kim.dewis@ElginIL.gov
847-931-5660
ElginIL.gov |
