Councilmember Lisa Herbold (District 1, Chair of the Public Safety and Human Services Committee) announced the Seattle City Council is now accepting applications from community members interested in joining the Community Police Commission (CPC).  

About the CPC 

The CPC is one of Seattle’s three civilian-led police accountability agencies. Often called the ‘community’s voice’ in the police accountability system, the CPC’s mission is to listen to, amplify, and build common ground among communities affected by policing in Seattle.  

Among other things, the CPC organizes community meetings, plays an important role in the federal Consent Decree process, and makes recommendations to the Council, Mayor, Seattle Police Department, and other city departments on public safety issues.  

The CPC is made up of 21 commissioners who serve in a volunteer capacity, though need-based stipends are available. Seven commissioners each are appointed by the Mayor, Council, and CPC itself. The Council is currently accepting applications to fill vacancies on the Commission.  

Who should apply? 

In accordance with the 2017 Accountability Ordinance, to be eligible, commissioners must be respected members of Seattle’s many diverse communities and reside or work in Seattle at the time of their appointment. 

The ordinance also indicates individual commissioners shall have expertise in law enforcement oversight; police accountability; human resources; community engagement; organizational change; constitutional, criminal, or labor law; social justice; training; law enforcement; or other disciplines important to the CPC’s work. 

Candidates with lived experience in behavioral health, homelessness, victim services and advocacy, communications, or who bring Native/Indigenous or youth voices to the commission are especially encouraged to apply. 

Commissioner duties 

CPC Commissioners are required to attend twice-monthly meeting, currently scheduled for the first and third Wednesdays of every month from 9 am – 12 pm. Commissioners must be able to dedicate at least 10 hours per month to CPC-related work, which includes participating in committees or ad-hoc workgroups, attending community meetings, forums, and other events, and engaging with the community.  

Applying 

Information on commissioner responsibilities and how to apply is available on the CPC’s How to become a CPC Commissioner website.  

Please note, applicants who are selected will need to meet with Councilmembers to discuss their appointment during a meeting of the Public Safety and Human Services Committee and will be confirmed by a vote of the full Council.  

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