Alexandria City Council has taken a significant step towards establishing a functional Police Review Board by approving a set of recommendations aimed at enhancing oversight and accountability within the police department. During a public hearing on April 26, 2025, the council discussed the recommendations from a subcommittee formed to address previous challenges in implementing the board's authority.

The subcommittee's key proposals include clarifying the auditor's decision-making authority regarding investigations and adjusting the auditor's subpoena power. Under the new recommendations, if the auditor declines to pursue an investigation, the board can vote to challenge that decision. If a majority disagrees with the auditor's choice, the matter will be escalated to the city council for a final determination. This change aims to ensure that the board retains a degree of influence over investigative decisions, addressing concerns about potential conflicts between the auditor and the board.

Additionally, the recommendations specify that the auditor will have the ability to subpoena documents and evidence necessary for investigations, but not individuals. This limitation has sparked debate among council members and community stakeholders, with some arguing that full subpoena power is essential for effective oversight. Critics of the proposed changes, including members of the Independent Civilian Police Review Board (ICPRB), expressed concerns that the limitations on subpoena power could hinder the board's ability to conduct thorough investigations.

Community members voiced their frustrations during the public hearing, emphasizing the need for robust civilian oversight in light of recent police incidents. Many speakers argued that the proposed changes do not go far enough to ensure accountability and transparency, with some calling for the restoration of full subpoena powers for the auditor.

The council acknowledged the challenges faced in establishing the board, citing delays and bureaucratic hurdles since its inception in 2020. Despite the ongoing discussions and differing opinions, council members expressed a commitment to moving forward with the recommendations, emphasizing the importance of having a functioning review board to address community concerns about police conduct.

As the council prepares to finalize the ordinance, the implications of these changes will be closely monitored by both city officials and community advocates. The next steps will involve implementing the approved recommendations and ensuring that the board can effectively fulfill its oversight role in the Alexandria Police Department.