Should Oakland put civilians in some police jobs?

The International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers Local 21 (IFPTE) is negotiating a new contract that includes a proposal to civilianize five positions in the Oakland Police Department, currently held by officers. This includes roles such as intake technicians who handle misconduct complaints, with the union citing potential savings of $160,000 per position. The proposal aims to allow more officers to engage in patrol work, addressing a staffing shortage where actual police numbers fall below budgeted levels. City leaders have acknowledged the merits of civilianizing certain roles but have yet to respond to the union's demands. The city is grappling with a $265 million budget deficit and has already cut hundreds of vacant positions.

IFPTE representatives express frustration over the lack of engagement from the City Administration, which has left them without a counter-proposal option. Oakland has previously explored the idea of placing civilians in police roles, particularly in Internal Affairs, to enhance efficiency. The ongoing silence from city officials casts doubt on the feasibility of these changes.