Salisbury, North Carolina  March 20, 2023  SPECIAL MEETING  PRESENT: Mayor Karen K. Alexander, Presiding; Mayor Pro Tem Tamara Sheffield, Council  Members David Post, and Anthony Smith; City Manager Jim Greene, Jr., City  Clerk Connie B. Snyder; and City Attorney J. Graham Corriher.  ABSENT: Council Member Harry McLaughlin.  Salisbury City Council attended a Community Input Forum hosted by the Police Chief's Advisory Board regarding the search for a new police chief. The forum took place in Council  Chambers in City Hall located at 217 South Main Street.  The meeting was opened by Dr. Roy Dennis, Chair oft the Police Chief's. Advisory Board, who noted the search for the next police chiefi is critical to the future of the City. He introduced City Manager Jim Greene, who is responsible for hiring the next police chief, and he thanked him fora allowing the public an opportunity to provide feedback. Mr. Greene explained the process for hiring the next police chief, and he noted it is important to have transparency in the process. He introduced Mr. Merl Hamilton with Geisler Consulting Group who will assist the City with its search. Mr. Hamilton noted he will work with Mr. Greene to find the ideal candidate for the City,  and he added the search will be national.  Human Relations Manager Anne Little served as moderator. Ms. Little presented the  audience with questions regarding what they would like to see in the next police chief:  Ifyou could ask any questions to the applicant what would it be?  What do you believe are the top three characteristics the new police chief should What specific experience do you believe is essential for the next police chief? What do you believe should be the police chief's top priorities?  possess?  Salisbury City Council  March 20, 2023  Page    The community input indicated citizens want the next police chief to be invested in the community and to support community relations and transparency. They want the next police chief tohave substance abuse and mental health training, to be mindful of police officer's mental health, and to provide police officer training. The characteristics citizens would like to see included integrity, empathy, and anti-racism. The top priorities for the police chiefincluded de-escalation, working with youth, addressing violent crimes, building relationships, dealing with gangs and  drugs, community engagement, and recruiting and retention of police officers.  The meeting ended at 7:30 p.m.  LALL  Karen Alexander, Mayor  Coius bbuple Connie B. Snyder, City Clerk  Salisbury City Council  March 20, 2023  Page 2