Public To Get Say In Recruitment Of New Police Oversight Director

LONG BEACH, CA — Recruitment for Long Beach's first-ever Director of Police Oversight launched Tuesday, and residents will have the chance to share what qualities and characteristics they'd like the director to have.

The Director of Police Oversight will work closely with the newly adopted Office of Police Oversight as well as collaborate with the Police Oversight Commission. City officials said the new position will help ensure accountability and transparency in the Long Beach Police Department.

"The selection of a Director of Police Oversight is a historic opportunity to foster a culture of public trust, accountability, and best practices,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We look forward to carefully choosing a leader with the expertise, integrity, and dedication necessary to uphold the highest standards of public service.”

Some responsibilities of the position could include systemic reviews and audits of police policies, training, uses of force, complaints and general operational practices. The director would make between $148,244 to $209,860 a year according to city officials.

The city is partnering with the recruiting firm Wendi Brown Creative Partners, a minority and women-owned firm, to conduct the search. As part of the recruitment process, the city encouraged members of the community to share recommendations in a short survey that will be available until 5 p.m. on Friday, June 30.

In addition to the survey, officials will conduct community outreach in person and those who wish to provide feedback in person were encouraged to attend upcoming city meetings such as:

• Virtual Community Meeting on July 12 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Public Safety Committee Meeting on July 15 at 3 p.m.

Officials said the recruitment process is expected to be finalized in September of this year and the Director will be announced shortly after. More information about the position is available in the job brochure.