PCOB Reasserts Its Authority and Appoints Rebecca Kemble as Interim Independent Police Monitor
Statement from PCOB Chair Devon Snyder
The Madison Police Civilian Oversight Board (PCOB) is reaffirming its authority and moving forward with the provisional appointment of Rebecca Kemble as Interim Independent Police Monitor. This action reflects the Board's responsibility to preserve the independence, continuity, and integrity of civilian oversight in Madison while ensuring the Office of the Independent Monitor remains fully operational during this transition.
The Board recognizes that questions have been raised regarding the relationship between recent Common Council actions and the authority established through ordinance. The Board's position is that authority granted by ordinance can't be assumed to have been eliminated, transferred, or superseded, clear legal action to that effect. The Board also recognizes the distinction between a permanent appointment and a provisional employment arrangement intended to ensure continuity of operations.
The PCOB remains committed to working collaboratively with the Mayor, Common Council, City Attorney, Human Resources, and other City departments. Collaboration should not require silence, compliance, or acceptance of limitations on the Board's authority without a clear legal basis. However, meaningful civilian oversight requires that the Board be permitted to exercise the authority and responsibilities entrusted to it by ordinance. Civilian oversight can't be independent in name only. The integrity of the oversight system depends on the Board's ability to carry out its legally established duties, including the appointment and supervision of the Independent Police Monitor.
The Board's decision to move forward with Rebecca Kemble's provisional appointment is intended to preserve continuity within the Office of the Independent Monitor and protect the long-term independence of Madison's civilian oversight framework. The PCOB is not seeking new authority. The Board remains committed to transparency, accountability, and meaningful civilian oversight in service to the residents of Madison. As Chair, my responsibility is not to make the Board convenient for the City. It is to ensure that the Board fulfills its responsibilities, protects its independence, and remains accountable to the community it serves.
Devon Snyder, Board Member
Chair, Police Civilian Oversight Board
City of Madison Police Civilian Oversight Board
