Community meetings set, new website established to hear what Riverside wants in its top cop

Riverside, Ca. – With Police Chief Sergio Diaz retiring, the City of Riverside is reaching out to the community to gather input on what city residents want in their next chief.

Five community meetings have been scheduled around the city, and a new website has been established so that residents, business owners, and others can give feedback.

“We want all residents to share with us the qualities and qualifications desired for Riverside’s next Police Chief,” Mayor Rusty Bailey said.

The community meetings will be conducted using a collaborative approach that enables attendees to share their thoughts most effectively. Interpretation will be provided for Spanish speakers and people who utilize American Sign Language.

Residents who cannot attend a meeting but want to register a comment can do so online at RiversideCA.gov/rpdchief

The meetings are scheduled for:

·         7-9 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 18 at Villegas Park, banquet room, 3091 Esperanza St.

·         7-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19 at Cesar Chavez Community Center auditorium, 2060 University Ave.

·         7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 at Reid Park, Springbrook banquet room, 1011 Orange St.

·         7-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26 at Orange Terrace Community Center banquet room A, 20010 Orange Terrace Parkway.

·         7-9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3 at La Sierra Senior Center, 5215 La Sierra Ave., building B.

Topics of focus include:

·         What do you see as the major public safety (law enforcement) issues facing our City?

·         What attributes and characteristics of Riverside should the next Chief value?

·         What professional qualifications should be held by the next Chief?

·         How should the next Chief be involved in the Riverside community?

“Whether it is at a community meeting or online, we need Riverside to speak up on this important issue,” Mayor Pro Tem Andy Melendrez said.