The Austin Community Police Review Commission convened on June 20, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding data reporting within the Austin Police Department (APD). The meeting highlighted ongoing concerns about the department's transparency and accountability, particularly in light of recent challenges in data management.

The discussion began with a review of the APD's historical context regarding data reporting. In 2020, the department appointed a chief data officer with the intention of improving the timeliness and accuracy of data releases. However, this position was eliminated in 2023, leading to further delays in reporting. Councilman Vila intervened, mandating the creation of a data portal to address these issues, which revealed several underlying problems.

Commission members expressed agreement on the necessity of improving data reporting but voiced strong opposition to certain recommendations outlined in a recent report produced by an internal APD use of force task force. The report suggested halting all reporting until data quality reached an unspecified standard, a move that the commission argued would limit transparency and public oversight of APD operations.

The task force's recommendations included reviewing use of force policies, training, and accountability measures. However, commission members emphasized the importance of involving public stakeholders in these discussions to ensure comprehensive oversight. They suggested that APD could benefit from hiring a dedicated data systems team to provide actionable recommendations for improving data connectivity and addressing training or policy changes aimed at reducing use of force incidents.

The commission concluded that while addressing data inconsistencies—particularly regarding level 4 use of force incidents—is crucial, halting all reporting indefinitely is not a viable solution. The meeting underscored the need for a balanced approach that fosters transparency while addressing the quality of data reporting within the APD. Further discussions and recommendations are expected as the commission continues to advocate for public involvement in police oversight.