Members Sought for City of Cambridge Police Review & Advisory Board

Cambridge, MA, February 25, 2021 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking Cambridge residents interested in serving on the Police Review & Advisory Board. Made up of volunteer members who serve five-year terms, the Board generally meets on the last Wednesday of the month at 6:00 p.m.

The Police Review & Advisory Board was established by City Ordinance in 1984 to:

• Provide for citizen participation in reviewing Cambridge Police Department policies, practices, and procedures;
• Provide a prompt, impartial and fair investigation of complaints brought by individuals against members of the Cambridge Police Department;
• Develop programs and strategies to promote positive police/community relations and provide opportunities for productive discussions, improved understanding, and innovative ways of resolving differences.

The Board consists of five Cambridge residents who are representative of the City's racial, social, and economic composition. Board Members must be a Cambridge resident; possess a reputation for fairness, integrity, and responsibility; and demonstrate an active interest in public affairs and service. For more information about the Board, visit: www.cambridgema.gov/prab.

Board Members serve as volunteers without compensation and are responsible for reviewing and evaluating completed investigations to make findings on the allegations contained in each complaint; identifying needs for changes to police department policies, procedures, or training, and reporting findings and recommended solutions to the Police Commissioner and the City Manager; and assisting in education and outreach to promote awareness and understanding of the Board and strengthen community-police relations.

The application deadline is March 26, 2021. Applications can be submitted at www.Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter describing interest and a resume and applicable expertise or experience can also be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. Please note that appointments are currently required due to COVID-19 pandemic protocols. To make an appointment to pick up an application, please contact the City Manager's Office at 617-349-4300 or email fgaines@Cambridgema.gov.