Overview

We explain the role of the Independent Evaluator and the process to hire one.

About

The City and MDHR selected an Independent Evaluator. We followed a process set forth in the court-enforceable settlement agreement.

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Community sessions

As part of the selection process, there were two public meetings. The community asked questions before the meetings. The community provided feedback after the meetings. The City and MDHR reviewed the community feedback. They took the feedback into account when they selected the Independent Evaluator.

Get community sessions details

People in meeting

The role of the Independent Evaluator

The Independent Evaluator will:
  • Fairly and efficiently evaluate how the City carries out the terms of the settlement agreement.
  • Move the City into compliance.
The Independent Evaluator will also:
  • Review and approve MPD’s policies and plans.
  • Engage with City partners on changes needed to establish compliance.
  • Develop measures and metrics to assess the City’s progress.
  • Provide technical help on initiatives.
  • Report on the City’s progress.

Required expertise for the Independent Evaluator

The settlement agreement requires that the Independent Evaluator has certain expertise and experience. This includes:
  • Expertise in modern law enforcement practices and large-city policing.
  • Experience working well with diverse communities on issues of public safety.
  • Expertise in:
    • Transforming policing culture.
      • Policies
      • Accountability structures in civil rights and in data analysis
      • Civil rights
      • Data analysis
    • Monitoring and oversight.
    • Developing new processes for supervisors to increase accountability.
    • Creating reports or other written materials for diverse audiences on complex topics.
The Independent Evaluator also must:
  • Understand that non-discriminatory policing creates a stronger public safety system.
  • Act with standards of integrity.
  • Show professionalism and respect in all interactions with:
    • Community members
    • MPD officers
    • All others

The request for proposals process

The City posted a request for proposals (RFP) for an Independent Evaluator on May 10, 2023.

  • The RFP was posted on the City's bidding opportunities page.
  • The City posted answers to questions about the RFP as an addendum to the event in the eSupplier portal.
  • Proposals were due by Oct. 25, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.

Process for selecting finalists

  • The City and MDHR reviewed the candidates and agreed on a group to interview. Selections were be based on factors which included: 
    • Quality, thoroughness and clarity of a proposal.
    • Strength of proposed plan. 
    • Experience and qualifications of proposed Independent Evaluator team members. 
  • After the interviews, the City and MDHR agreed on final candidates.

Independent Evaluator selection process

Public meetings

Selection

  • The community input provided at the public meetings was be taken into account by the City and MDHR in selecting the Independent Evaluator.
  • From the finalists, MDHR and the City selected an Independent Evaluator. They selected Effective Law Enforcement ALL (ELEFA).

Budget

  • Under terms of the agreement, the budget for the Independent Evaluator will be up to $1.5 million each year.
  • The contract with the Independent Evaluator must begin within four months from the day the court approves the agreement.