Collingswood Police Chief Advisory Committee Tackling Diversity

COLLINGSWOOD, NJ — Collingswood officials are appointing an executive committee that will select members from diverse backgrounds and expertise to review police department policies, procedures, and programs that affect the community in the aftermath of George Floyd's death, officials announced on Monday.

The borough is seeking members of the community to serve on the Police Chief’s Advisory Committee, which will consist of people from various backgrounds, including educators, business owners, civil rights and social justice advocates, religious leaders, mental health and substance abuse disorder providers, youth, and the community at large.

The committee will be responsible for maintaining an open channel of communication with the public, the review of policies, the formation of new strategies, and the expansion of community policing programs. The committee members will also act as liaisons to the community.

“Embracing residents’ voices is paramount for law enforcement agencies to promote trust and legitimacy within the communities they serve,” Collingswood Mayor James Maley said. “The Police Chief's Advisory Committee is a forum to address community concerns and expand communication between residents and law enforcement. The committee’s goals will be driven by the feedback of the community.”

“The focus of the Chief’s Advisory Committee will be to address concerns that center around public safety with a shared commitment toward building more positive relationships,” Collingswood Police Chief Kevin Carey said.

Work began on the committee earlier this year and recent calls to action nationwide in response to the death of George Floyd. Floyd was killed after then Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin kneeled on his neck for nearly nine minutes.

Video, which captured Floyd saying "I can't breathe," went viral, and sparked nationwide protests. In the aftermath of his death, officials released the following statement.

“The objective is to create an environment where our community feels their police department is accessible, transparent, and values the input of the residents regarding public safety and quality of life for everyone,” Maley said.

The initial goals of the Advisory Committee include but are not limited to the following:

• Work to build coalitions intended to strengthen the ongoing relationships between the police and Borough residents;
• Function as a “think tank” and make recommendations to the Police Chief about relevant issues in the community;
• Provide feedback on behalf of the community in response to proposed police programs and priorities; and
• Assist in educating the community at large about the function and role of the Collingswood Police Department.

Those interested in serving as an advisory committee member can apply at collingswood.com. Applications are now available.