Port Angeles unveils Public Safety Advisory Board work plan to structure community input

Police and Fire Department leaders outlined a detailed work plan for the Public Safety Advisory Board that emphasizes orientation, member development and topic‑focused meetings. The chiefs recommended a two‑phase approach: an initial orientation period that includes governance training (Open Meetings Act and public‑records responsibilities) and ride‑alongs, followed by focused monthly meetings centered on defined public‑safety topics such as downtown safety, nuisance and disorder, homelessness and EMS availability.

Chief Smith said the board’s role will be to provide structured community feedback on systems and services—not to evaluate specific incidents or personnel matters—and that an annual summary report, not a policy recommendation document, would capture themes for council consideration. The chiefs proposed monthly 90‑minute meetings and emphasized clarity about the board’s boundaries and responsibilities.

Council unanimously reaffirmed prior direction to continue recruitment and asked the ad hoc committee to move forward with appointment recommendations for the new board. Council members noted they expect the work plan to be a living document and to be adjusted as new priorities emerge.