Madison Common Council Debates Police Civilian Oversight Board Appointment Process

The Common Council of Madison convened on September 2, 2025, to address several key agenda items, with a significant focus on the Police Civilian Oversight Board (PCOB) and its appointment process. The meeting began with a brief inquiry regarding the shelf life of pallet shelters, which was not conclusively answered.

The primary discussion centered around agenda item 66, which proposed amendments to the PCOB appointment process. Public comments were made by several registrants, including civil rights advocates and community members, who expressed their views on the proposed changes. Jessica Saxton, a civil rights advocate from Washington, D.C., emphasized the importance of adhering to constitutional guidelines in the appointment process, while also highlighting the need for clarity on the board's function.

Amelia Royko Maurer supported Alder Madison's alternate amendment, which aimed to prioritize smaller community organizations in the appointment process. She argued that eliminating this provision would consolidate power among larger organizations, undermining the PCOB's potential to amplify marginalized voices.

Erica Bach, another registrant, reflected on the historical context of the PCOB's formation and the ongoing struggle for equitable representation in policing discussions. She urged the council to consider the voices of smaller organizations that often lack political access.

Shadrach Kilfoy Flores, a former chair of the PCOB, criticized the amendment proposed by Alder Figueroa, claiming it was developed without proper input from the board and did not reflect the community's needs. He advocated for Alder Madison's proposal, which he believed better represented the interests of the community.

The council members engaged in a structured dialogue regarding the amendments, with Alder Madison seeking clarification from Stephanie Rearick about the proposed changes and their implications. The discussion highlighted the ongoing tension between different factions within the council regarding the composition and function of the PCOB.

As the meeting progressed, the council decided to take a 10-minute recess to allow for further deliberation on the matter. The outcome of the discussions and any resolutions regarding the PCOB appointment process will be addressed in future meetings, as the council continues to navigate the complexities of community representation and police oversight.