Modesto Committee Reviews Municipal Code for Community Engagement and Youth Mentorship Programs

In the heart of Modesto's city hall, the Community Police Review Board convened on August 20, 2025, to discuss pressing issues affecting local law enforcement and community relations. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as board members prepared to share updates on their ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering trust and safety within the community.

Board member Scott opened the meeting with a brief report, highlighting that fellow members Grama and Smith had registered for the upcoming Napole Conference, a gathering expected to provide valuable insights into community policing strategies. "Be ready to take a lot of notes," he encouraged, setting a collaborative tone for the discussions ahead.

As the meeting progressed, the board turned its attention to critical policy goals. One significant focus was the review of the use of force policy, aimed at minimizing the likelihood of fatal encounters. While no new updates were available, the board emphasized the importance of this ongoing evaluation.

Another key topic was improving relations between the police department and the community. A committee member reported that work was underway on the annual report, which would soon be scheduled for completion. This report is anticipated to outline strategies for enhancing community engagement and transparency.

The board also addressed the urgent issue of youth arrests, particularly among Latino youth. A member shared insights from a recent graduation ceremony for a Latino leadership initiative, where mentorship programs aimed at guiding at-risk youth were discussed. "I’m going to be meeting with a mentor who is actively working with youth in gang-affected areas," the member noted, expressing hope for collaboration to support these initiatives.

Patricia, another board member, provided an update on the review of Modesto's Municipal Code, specifically focusing on civil rights concerns raised by the ACLU and the First Amendment Coalition. She detailed the committee's commitment to developing a robust community engagement strategy, which includes a bilingual survey to gather input from residents. "Our goal is to learn how similar ordinances are interpreted and enforced in other jurisdictions," she explained, emphasizing the importance of community feedback in shaping their recommendations.

As the meeting concluded, the board members expressed their dedication to continuing their work, with plans to draft reports and recommendations that would inform both the city manager and the public. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to building trust and ensuring that the voices of Modesto's residents are heard in shaping the future of community policing.