COEUR d'ALENE - On Monday, the General Service Committee unanimously approved allowing the police department to revise its use of force review board policy in order to allow citizens to participate.

In a presentation to the committee prior to the vote, Coeur d'Alene Police Chief Lee White said the current scope of the use of force review board policy is too narrow.

"The composition of the board does not provide for the level of accountability, transparency, and community input that is needed for law enforcement to work effectively with our community," White said.

A use of force review board is traditionally only convened in the event of an officer using deadly force against another person. However, White said he wishes to expand on those parameters and include incidents of non-lethal force as well.

When asked by Councilwoman Amy Evans how frequently the board meets, White said the board, in its current capacity, only meets as needed - but he would like to turn it into "more of a standing board."

"Unfortunately, officers are required to use force on a semi-regular basis," White said. "So I could see the board acting in more of a permanent fashion on a regular basis."

Councilman Steve Adams asked White what the criteria would be for members of the public to be selected to serve on the board. White responded by saying potential members would need to complete the citizen police academy in order to have a basic understanding of law enforcement policy.

White added he would also advocate that the potential members take use of force training, which would include a day of instruction and participation in role-playing scenarios.

A background check, residence in Coeur d'Alene and signing a confidentiality agreement would also be required of potential members, White said.