It’s been tried a few times over the last decade, but Tulsa city councilors are taking a different approach with their latest proposal for independent oversight board.
Previous attempts were limited to independent review of the Tulsa Police Department, but this time the scope has been broadened to cover all aspects of public safety.
An ordinance introduced in the Public Works Committee meeting Wednesday would create the Office of Independent Review and Oversight of Public Safety.
“When government investigates itself, there should be another set of eyes looking at whether the investigation was thorough, objective and consistent with the rules.” District 7 Councilor Lori Decter Wright said.
The office would have the ability to review investigations into police, fire, emergency management, 911 operations, animal control city security and code enforcement. According to a council presentation, the office must review investigations into incidents such as deadly force, discharge of firearms, duty-related deaths or deaths occurring in custody.
District 1 Councilor Vanessa Hall-Harper said the purpose is not to assume wrongdoing.
“It is a quality control check,” Hall-Harper said. “Did investigators address the allegations? Did they identify and consider important evidence and witnesses? Did they follow their investigative policies and procedures?”
The office would have a director, appointed by the mayor, and an 11-member board with representation from every City Council district and two at-large members. The board members would also be appointed by the mayor, but would have to be confirmed by councilors.
The office’s findings would be for advisory purposes only and it would not have the authority to impose discipline or direct operations.
The Tulsa City Council could vote on the ordinance as soon as September 23rd.
Read the presentation shown in the Public Works Committee meeting here
