By Dave Lucas
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wamc/local-wamc-899078.mp3
Albany, NY – The public process involved in selection of a new police chief for the city of Albany has been hailed by some for its transparency. Some common council members have come forward, pushing for the opportunity to meet with the four finalists BEFORE they are interviewed by Mayor Jerry Jennings. Capital District Bureau Chief Dave Lucas reports.
The candidates and their resumes are a matter of public record. 4th ward councilwoman Barbara Smith beleives bringing all four candidates before the council would give the members a better idea of where the finalists stand on important issues, enabling the council to make a more informed decision when it comes time to confirm the Mayor's choice to succeed former Chief Jim Tuffey. Common Council President Pro tempore Richard Conti thinks the council would be heading into murky waters by injecting itself into the selection process ahead of Mayor Jennings. Once Jennings makes his selection, the common council has 45 days to make a decision. Should the nominee be rejected, Jennings would have to pick another candidate from the remaining three. Conti says the issue that seems to be carrying the most weight throughout the process is that of "community policing." The Mayor's office did not return a call for comment.