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City plans to create more diverse police, fire departments

3 min read

Washington officials are working with a consultant to update the city’s civil service policy and also formulate a plan to create a more diverse fire department and police force.

The city in July hired Bill Gamble, an independent consultant who also administers civil service exams, with the hopes of formulating new regulations to meet state standards while reaching out to minorities to encourage them to become police officers or firefighters.

Mayor Brenda Davis said Gamble has given the city a “recruitment plan for diversity” that would bring together a committee that includes the mayor, NAACP, community leaders, clergy, retired police officers and, most importantly, residents.

She said the council could vote on the plan at next month’s meeting.

“What we need to do is engage with the community to allow them to know what hirings are available,” Davis said.

That plan can’t come soon enough for those in the community who are disappointed about the lack of diversity within the city police and fire departments.

Robert Griffin, president of the NAACP’s Washington chapter, said during Thursday night’s voting meeting that there are “sincere concerns” by residents about the lack of black officers in both departments and he asked the city to formulate a plan for outreach into the community.

“The time is now to take action and I hope you’ll consider a written action plan to improve minority hiring in the city,” Griffin said.

But Davis took exception with that accusation by Griffin and pointed to the recruitment plan.

She also noted department leaders, including fire Chief Linn Brookman, have tried to work with the school district and local churches to help with recruiting, but have seen few results.

“What you’re asking for is something we’ve already started to work on,” Davis said.

“We understand there are flaws. Fortunately, we’re in a position to update our rules and regulations and update an action plan that has never been put forward before the council. We want to make sure the city of Washington gets it right.”

Any applicants to become police officers or firefighters must take the civil service examinations to be considered for the jobs.

The highest-scoring applicants are then considered whenever there are openings, although city officials said few minorities take the test.

However, two meetings between city officials, community leaders, residents and Griffin have helped to open dialogue about the issue.

Councilman Ken Westcott said he hopes the city can work with Griffin and the NAACP to improve minority hiring.

“We need to do whatever we can do to work with your group and correct these problems,” Westcott said.

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