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Fargo oversight board discusses converting to informal Citizens Advisory Board; city commission to review
Summary
At its May 8 meeting, the Police Advisory and Oversight Board discussed whether to convert from an ordinance-created board into a less formal Citizens Advisory Board, with legal staff warning about open-meeting requirements and the city commission scheduled to consider board continuance June 9.
The Police Advisory and Oversight Board on May 8 discussed converting from an ordinance-established advisory board into a less formal Citizens Advisory Board to increase community engagement, but city legal staff cautioned the change could still trigger open-meeting requirements.
Board member Joanna Johnson said a community-style board could allow more open conversation: "Being able to engage in conversation, and listen, to community concerns." Board members said the idea would allow more informal dialogue with residents and potentially more neighborhood listening sessions.
Resident Christopher Cohn, who spoke during public comment, described drug-dealing activity near his Fargo rental and said he was unsure what information the police tip line needs: "I live here in Fargo, not far from downtown... the issue I'd like to discuss today is dealing with drug dealers in apartment buildings." Board members cited Cohn's remarks as an example of the sort of public-engagement conversation proponents want the advisory body to foster.
City legal adviser Nancy (staff) said changing the board's structure would not automatically remove open-meeting obligations. "Anything we do, we would be looking to ensure compliance with open meeting laws," she told members. Board members discussed quorum rules and Roberts Rules of Order, and whether an informal format would ease scheduling and participation.
Members noted practical questions about membership terms and continuity. Board members said some terms have passed their original three- or four-year length but that city code allows members to "continue until somebody else is appointed." The board agreed its sentiment in favor of exploring a community-style advisory structure would be conveyed to the city commission for consideration.
No formal vote or change to the board's status was taken at the meeting. Multiple members urged patience until the city commission reviews the future of boards and commissions, tentatively scheduled for June 9, and said any structural change would need follow-up to ensure compliance with state open-meeting laws and the governing ordinance.
Board members asked staff and the chief to gather examples and research from other jurisdictions so the board and commission could evaluate potential formats, membership sizes, term limits, and accountability mechanisms. The board discussed continuing its current operations until the commission acts and noted the chief had indicated familiarity with community-board models.
If the commission chooses to dissolve or alter the board, members said the chief or city commission would determine next steps and any necessary ordinance rescission. For now, members said they will continue as the Police Advisory and Oversight Board and await the commission's guidance.
