The Riverside County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on July 29, 2025, where significant discussions centered around community concerns regarding law enforcement and the proposed formation of an ad hoc committee. The meeting featured a public hearing that highlighted a divided community, with various stakeholders expressing their opinions on law enforcement practices and transparency.
Supervisor Washington opened the discussion by acknowledging the diverse viewpoints shared by community members. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and expressed his belief that the proposed ad hoc committee might not foster the productive conversations needed to address community concerns. Washington noted that he would prefer more engagement with residents before moving forward with any committee, stating, "I need more dialogue with community members."
Supervisor Medina echoed Washington's sentiments, reflecting on past experiences and the necessity of involving both the community and law enforcement in discussions. He highlighted the lack of empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of advisory councils, suggesting that local conversations could lead to better outcomes without the need for a formal committee.
Supervisor Spiegle also contributed to the discussion, expressing frustration over being labeled as unresponsive and emphasizing her commitment to representing all constituents in Riverside County. She pointed out that the ad hoc committee's formation seemed predetermined and lacked sufficient community input.
The meeting underscored the need for continued dialogue between the Board of Supervisors, law enforcement, and the community to address concerns about public safety and transparency. The supervisors collectively agreed that further conversations are essential before any decisions regarding the ad hoc committee are made, indicating a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and informed approach to governance.