Applications are now open for the 2017 Public Safety Oversight Commission. 

The passage of Proposition 101 on May 16 created the need for the new commission.

Proposition 101 establishes a half-cent sales tax increase for the next five years, beginning July 1. An expected $250 million in additional sales tax revenue will be generated as a result, which will go toward improving the condition of streets and upgrading and replacing police and fire vehicles, equipment and facilities.

The application for the commission is open to any city resident, and applicants will be screened on the basis of their interest, leadership role in the community, geographical representation, qualifications and stakeholder group. The deadline to apply is Friday, June 23. The City Manager will make four selections, while each of the seven members of the Mayor and Council will also make an appointment, making a total of 11 commission members.

The commission will be responsible for meeting quarterly and reviewing the progress of the program’s public safety expenditures. They will report annually to citizens in an effort to ensure funds are spent correctly and in accordance with Proposition 101.