Should police have a vote on police civilian review boards?

Portland will have a new police review board starting September 1. Today, the Portland City Council voted 3-2 to allow the commander of a police officer involved in use of force or alleged misconduct to have a vote in determining whether the officer acted within policy and, if warranted, recommend discipline. Commissioner Randy Leonard, who proposed the change at the request of Portland Police Chief Mike Reese, says its a minor procedural matter that doesn't effect the power of the review board. Commissioners Saltzman and  Fritz, who voted against the proposal, expressed concern that city-hired consultants recommended against such a proposal in 2003 and 2006. Those opposing the change include the American Civil Liberties Union Oregon, and the League of Women Voters.

Does this make a review board "structurally flawed" as the consultants suggested in 2003 or does it strengthen accountability as Commissioner Nick Fish, who along with Mayor Adams supported Leonard's proposal, claims. This Thursday, Jo Ann and Dave take up these and other questions about this newest development in Portland's long and troubled struggle to create accountability in the police bureau.