Council appoints Christopher Brown to Atlanta Citizens Review Board; requests report and approves limited new staffing

Councilmember Andrea L. Boone on Monday asked the Public Safety and Legal Administration Committee to confirm Christopher Brown as a member of the Atlanta Citizens Review Board and to press the board on timeliness and transparency of deadly‑force investigations. The committee voted 5‑0 to appoint Brown and later approved related personnel and oversight measures.

Brown told the committee he has “been involved in the city of Atlanta government in a public square for the last 20 years” and that his experience as a former city employee and community advocate would help “restore public trust.” After brief comments of support from Committee members, the appointment passed 5 ayes, 0 nays.

The committee also considered a personnel ordinance to add positions and reclassifications for the Atlanta Citizens Review Board as part of the 2025 classification plan. Councilmember Boone said the item responds to recent reporting about the board; she moved the personnel item favorable “on condition that DHR provide the position numbers, classification code, and account information before the full council meeting.” The committee voted the measure favorable on condition, 5‑0, and voted 5‑0 to forward the ordinance to the Finance and Executive Committee for further consideration.

Separately, the committee adopted Resolution 25R3088, requesting a written report from the executive director of the Atlanta Citizens Review Board to be transmitted to the committee by the start of its February 24, 2025 meeting. The resolution asks that the report address the board’s activities, including a response to public allegations that the ACRB has “failed to act in accordance with its duties” with respect to investigations of deadly uses of force. Committee leadership also asked that the board’s executive director, Mr. Reid, appear in person at the Feb. 24 meeting. The resolution passed 5‑0.

Committee members emphasized timeliness and preparation. After the appointment vote, Boone told Brown: “We are very anxious for you to start serving on this very important board to the citizens of Atlanta and encourage you to research, research, research before your very first meeting.”

What this means: The committee’s actions signal council intent to bolster the Citizens Review Board’s staffing and to get a written status update and in‑person briefing ahead of any legislative changes. The finance committee will now review the requested positions and account information before full council consideration.