Mayor Slay Issues Statement on Passage of Civilian Oversight Board Legislation

Mayor Francis Slay, a co-sponsor of Board Bill 208 to establish a Civilian Oversight Board in the City of St. Louis, will sign the legislation into law during a bill signing ceremony on May 5, 2015.

"The passage of the Civilian Oversight Board legislation by aldermen reflects two things: an awareness that one is needed, and a willingness to compromise to get it," Mayor Slay said. "I look forward to signing this historic piece of legislation into law. Now the real work starts as we begin to implement it."

With Mayor Slay's support, Board Bill 208 was introduced by Alderman Terry Kennedy and sponsored by Alderman Antonio French to create a civilian board to receive and review complaints about the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

Seven members will serve on the Civilian Oversight Board. Each alderman may submit a name to Mayor Slay for consideration to be on the Board. Mayor Slay will then send seven nominations to the Board of Aldermen for confirmation.

"The goal in creating this legislation has always been to create a board that will enhance trust between police officers and the community, be fair to police and protect their rights, ensure that civilians have a role in our police department, and increase transparency," Mayor Slay said.

The bill officially becomes law 30 days after Mayor Slay signs it.