Portland names police oversight board, testing reform promises

The Portland City Council appointed a police oversight board last week, fulfilling a voter mandate from 2020. This board will investigate police shootings and misconduct while imposing penalties, marking a pivotal moment for police reform in the city. Despite initial aspirations, the final proposal was scaled back significantly, reducing membership and retaining disciplinary power with the police chief. The council appointed 21 members from a pool of 121 applicants, ensuring they serve staggered terms to maintain continuity. The board's formation is crucial for rebuilding community trust, strained by past police actions.

In a bargaining agreement with the police union, board members must remain unbiased toward law enforcement, a definition that remains unresolved. The members include individuals from diverse backgrounds, such as a civil rights attorney and a housing advocate. The board's first major task will be to hire a director to lead its initiatives.