Cabinet advisory board plans council presentation, 2026 calendar and recruitment push

The Oak Harbor Police Community Advisory Board discussed scheduling and outreach items including the 2026 meeting calendar, the CAB’s planned presentation to city council and a recruitment push to fill open seats.

The board reviewed proposed 2026 meeting dates and agreed to post them; members proposed moving the November meeting because of Veterans Day. Several members suggested the CAB present a slideshow packet to council and proposed January (potentially Jan. 20) as a preferred date to allow fuller participation.

Board members urged the presentation emphasize the CAB’s findings and recommendations, including its support for tools presented by the chief (the CAB asked that support for the SODA zone be noted in the document) and long‑term approaches such as a pallet‑shelter program. One member suggested soliciting business sponsorships for shelters if the city acquires land.

Members also discussed recruitment to fill expiring positions (Melinda Buchanan pos. 1, Rachel Paul pos. 3 and Marty Malloy pos. 5) and the importance of a student representative. Staff outlined the standard application and interview referral process to the mayor and council and said interested candidates must apply via the city website.

Routine board business completed at the meeting included approval of the agenda and minutes and a motion to adjourn; the board set its next meeting for Jan. 7.