Police Commission

Last Updated on Tuesday, 10 August 2010 15:06

Established in 1952 and created pursuant to Ch. 2.28 of the Whitewater Municipal Code as well as Wisconsin State Statutes. Membership consists of five citizen members, appointed by the Common Council. Terms are for a five year period.

Scope of a Commission's Authority

The statutory powers, duties and responsibilities of a police and fire commission are significant. A commission has authority to: Appoint, suspend or remove the Chief of Police of the Police Department and the Chief of the Fire Department. (Sec. 62.13(3), Stats.) Approve all appointments made by the Police Chief and Fire Chief, including the promotion of subordinates. (Sec. 62.13(4)(a), Stats.) Approve competitive examinations used to judge suitability for appointment of subordinates. (Sec. 62.13(4)(d), Stats.) Approve each list of individuals determined to be eligible for appointment. (Sec. 62.13 (4)(a), Stats.) Suspend the Chief of a department or subordinates pending the filing and hearing of charges against them. (Sec. 62.13(3) and (5)(a), Stats.) Initiate charges against the Chief of a Department or any subordinate. (Sec. 62.13(5)(b), Stats.) Hear charges filed against the Chief of a Department or a subordinate, make findings and determinations, and impose penalties. (Sec. 62.13(5)(d) and (5)(e), Stats.) Hear appeals of disciplinary actions initiated by the Chief of a Department against any subordinate. (Sec. 62.13(5)(d), Stats.)