In Commission: New chapter begins at the Medicine Hat Police Commission
By MH Police Commission on January 16, 2024.
It has been a while since the last article about the Medicine Hat Police Commission was printed, and there have been a few changes worth noting. The commission has undergone shifts in both structure and membership. Following the passing of the updated provincial Police Act, two new positions, appointed at the provincial level, have been added to the commission. This brings our total membership to nine members – two provincial appointees, five municipal appointees, and two city councillors. We bid farewell to the previous chair and vice-chair, whose six-year terms concluded in December. Therefore, at the January closed meeting the city clerk will oversee the nomination and election process of the new chair and vice chair. We will also welcome two new Municipal appointees, completing the changes to our membership for 2024. This sets the stage for the commission to delve into the core of our work. Our meetings cover a variety of agenda topics including reports from the chief, highlights from the patrol unit, discussions on training and recruitment, and professional standards. Often, specialized units within the service such as bomb disposal, tactical team, or the downtown patrol unit provide insightful and informative presentations. These meetings are currently scheduled for the third Wednesday of each month in council chambers. They are open to the public and are also live streamed. Furthermore, there is a dedicated segment for community consultation, providing a platform for citizens to pose questions or share comments on policing in our city. In effort to foster greater understanding and engagement with those we serve, the commission is actively seeking to raise its profile within our community. We want your voice heard! Your participation matters and we encourage you to connect with us. Visit our website at http://www.mhpolicecommission.ca to share your thoughts and stay informed. 10-9
