One of the most important City Council meetings of the year happens on May 9. The Council votes on whether to appoint Jen Louis as Berkeley’s official Chief of Police.

Why is this so important?

Because Louis has been held in an interim status for two years, creating a tremendous amount of uncertainty within the department. This is causing morale to fall, making senior officers consider whether they want to remain, and hurting BPD’s ability to fill the 30+ vacant officer positions we desperately need. And all this at a time when violent crime is rising every day in Berkeley.

A vocal faction is turning out to contest Louis’ appointment. It is important that SafeBears supporters turn up in force and 📣 speak for 1 minute during public comment in favor of Louis’ appointment— that includes both public comment sections (the one at the beginning and the one at the end of the meeting.) You do NOT have to live in Berkeley to raise your virtual hand & speak. (Pro tip: hit the “Raise Hand” icon right at the beginning of the meeting. You’ll have a better chance of being selected when Public Comment begins!)

📤 And please email to the City Council ahead of time urging them to vote for Louis’ appointment. The City Clerk prints out every email related to a measure under discussion, and we need to show just how many of us there are. Use our easy email template here.