Two big questions looming over the Denver Sheriff Department reform were front and center Tuesday when Denver City Council members held their first discussion about the plan to fix the department.
What is the first step? And how does the city pay for it?
“Everything is inner-connected,” said Councilwoman Jeanne Robb.
Stephanie O’Malley, executive director of the Denver Department of Public Safety, explained early priorities during the council’s public safety and well-being committee meeting. Thus far, O’Malley has established big-picture plans, but details remain in the works.
O’Malley also warned that change comes with a cost. And it was clear council members already are thinking about it as they urged O’Malley to prepare for the 2016 budget, which is in the works.
Finding a new sheriff is critical, Robb said.
Consultants hired to review the department said a new sheriff must be instrumental in writing a strategic plan. Without a strategic plan, the department will not know where to focus, she said.
“When we’re going to have a new sheriff and how we’re going to find that person is number one in my mind,” Robb said.
