(FARGO, ND) – For the first time this calendar year, Fargo Police and Oversight Board members were able to meet for their formal meeting.
The board was able to meet for an informal brown bag session on January 15 at Gateway Commons in the Fargo Police Department building.
Among the topics discussed was a continuation of the discussion at the brown bag session regarding a possible change of the board to a citizen’s advisory committee. At the brown bag session, Chief David Zibolski said the board could be an independent one that would not be held to Robert’s Rules of Order and open records.
Fargo City Attorney Nancy Morris, however, said the board would be subject to open meeting laws.
At Thursday’s meeting, board member Dr. Joanna Johnson said that the brown bag showed that there were some benefits, including the possibility of having an open dialogue with those who provide public comment. Under the current structure, the board is not allowed to engage with the community who provide public comments.
“Having a community board would allow us to engage in that conversation openly, and be able to discuss,” Johnson said.
While no decision was made regarding the board’s future, Lieutenant Travis Moser, serving as a liaison between the department and the board, informed members that the Fargo City Commission will be tentatively discussing all boards and commissions at their June 9 meeting. The City Council would make the final decision on any changes.
