Commission to review police plan as lawsuits, investigations continue

Burbank’s Police Commission plans to iron out details of a major part of its oversight role Wednesday as part of the city’s response to federal and county investigations into the department.

Specifically, the commission will discuss ways to ensure the Police Department’s 2011 Strategic Plan — which addresses cultural issues within the department, among other things — is working and its goals are being met.

As part of that plan, the City Council last year agreed to bring on Michael Gennaco to oversee how police handle a variety of cases, including allegations of excessive force.

Gennaco heads the Los Angeles County Office of Independent Review, which provides civilian oversight of the Sheriff's Department.

Details, including cost and a scope of work, have not been announced.

The Commission could directly oversee the strategic plan, or it could hire Robert Corbin, who worked on the Christopher Commission in the aftermath of the Rodney King beating.

If hired, Corbin would present the department's progress to the Commission, and ultimately the City Council, along with any recommendations.

Corbin has ties to the city. His law firm, Corbin, Fitzgerald & Athey, of Los Angeles, was tasked to review the Burbank Use of Force audit. Corbin also assisted the city in evaluating city attorney candidates during the recent recruitment for that position.

The department is trying to move forward despite lawsuits by former and current police officers alleging retaliatory firing, racism and sexual harassment.

The Commission meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall. Commission meetings will now be available for viewing on the city’s website.