Citizen Appeal Board refers proposed member-training bylaw back to subcommittee

The Grand Rapids Citizen Appeal Board voted March 19, 2025, to send a proposed amendment to Bylaw 2.1 — a provision that would formalize member training — back to the board's subcommittee for redrafting after members raised questions about ambiguous language on who decides what training is “relevant” and whether staff should be explicitly involved.

The proposed text was read aloud at the meeting: “New board members upon appointment shall receive training in areas relevant to their service to this board. These training include but are not limited to civil rights, law enforcement use of force policies, city policies, internal affairs policies and procedures, and public service employment law. This list is neither exhaustive nor mandated as to what training must be performed. Existing members shall receive remedial training as deemed necessary by the board.” Chair Jason Osborne (Citizen…