Philadelphia City Council was on the right track when they passed a bill stating that public opinion had to be involved in the process of negotiating police contracts with the city. That bill was later overturned in court but the city council really needs to pursue do having the laws changed in order to increase accountability for the system.
Although it's a small step, allowing the public to participate in the negotiation process will play a major role in contract negotiations with the Police Union and Philadelphia city. It is a necessary step towards police #reform, which will help increase transparency and accountability.
Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson introduced the bill because she wanted to bring transparency to the contract negotiations which up until then took place in the dark. Negotiations would have had to involve a public hearing which will be held at least 30 days before the contract is presented to the Police Union by the Mayor's administration. They would also now required to file a report on how the bill is influenced by public input.
Councilmember Kendra Brooks says she was “proud to co-sponsor this important bill introduced by @Coucilwomankgr that passed today in @PHLCouncil.The FOP holds unchecked power in Philadelphia. It's urgent that the contract be accountable to the people of Philadelphia and this bill is an important first step.”
The bill would help set disciplinary procedures for police officers and ensure accountability for millions of dollars which are spent on their benefits and salaries. It would make it possible to ensure that effects are implemented at ground level and followed strictly in accordance with legislation.
There is a strong need to ensure that police actions are fair and accountable.This reform is a small step to address the nationwide cry for accountability of its police departments. Every citizen has a constitutional right to walk freely without fear, and it's the responsibility of the police force to ensure that they can securely live their lives and practice their rights.
Gilmore Richardson stated that “for far too long, these contracts have been negotiated in the dark, allowing the FOP to create terms and demand payments regardless of results or accountability.” Although bringing back this public input policy will be a small step, it will give confidence to the citizens that their voices are heard. There are more such reforms needed in the city to build a better society, as well as fight prevailing racism, inequality and injustice.
It's a long way to go but I still believe that this police reform would be a step in the right direction towards transparency and accountability.
