Atlanta Citizen Review Board narrows executive director search

Valerie Bell-Smith has worked for the City of Atlanta for twenty years, most recently in public relations.

“I’m very familiar with our community outreach process.  I work diligently to establish many of the policies and procedures now in place in terms of citizen participation and outreach,” said Bell-Smith.

Clyburn Haley is the police chief of Grantville in Coweta County.  He told the audience his background in law enforcement will help him investigate police complaints.

“I know I can make a difference.  I know I can bring partnerships. I know I can work with the police department. I know I can work with the ranking officers,” said Hayley.

Sheena Robertson holds a law degree and has been an investigator with the Citizen Review Board for three years.  She says that’s given her an inside knowledge of the job. 

Robertson says she knows Atlanta, and referenced the high-profile police shooting that led to the board’s formation.

“I’ve been on Neal Street conducting investigations.  So I see Katherine Johnston’s home, where the memorial is set up.  And I understand the importance and the tragedy it has had—and the impact it has had on the community,” she said.

Holly Wiseman also has a law degree.  Recently, she worked in New Orleans with a similar citizen oversight board.  She says that, plus being a prosecutor for more than 30-years puts her in a unique position.

“It really makes me angry when law enforcement agents don’t consider themselves bound by the laws that everyone else has to comply with.”

Whomever the board appoints, she or he will need thick skin.  Since its inception, the board’s discipline recommendations have found little favor with the police chief.  Each candidate assured board members they would work on that relationship.