Issue link: https://newsleader.uberflip.com/i/360116
Date of the next meeting is uncertain, either on Aug. 20 or 21. DELEGATING RESPONSIBILITY The Sarasota City Charter specifically grants the power of investigation to the City Commission, which, in turn, can delegate it to other organizations the commission has cre- ated. The power, however, is rarely used. In some respects, the procedure set up by the Independent Police Advisory Panel on Aug. 6 resembles a congressional hearing. Members and staff will investigate independently, return to share their findings and then call witnesses for questioning. Based upon the testimony and evidence, the group will issue its conclusions in a "finding" or "report." The assignment to have the panel investigate the accreditation issue passed by the narrow- est of margins, 3-2, with Commissioners Paul Caragiulo and Shannon Snyder in the minority. Before the vote on July 21, the city commis- sioners appeared eager to grill DiPino. But they were forestalled by a motion from Vice Mayor Susan Chapman to refer the issue to the independent police panel. The progress of the citizens panel reviewing DiPino's decision — and its analysis of the pros and cons of accreditation — could shape future investigations by the City Commission. It certainly will lay some ground rules for the conduct of future inquiries. % Bernadette DiPino speaks to an audience gathered for the announcement of her appointment as the new city police chief. Mikel Hollaway (second from right) was preparing to retire from the position. Photo by Norman Schimmel Sarasota News Leader August 8 & 15, 2014 Page 29