For Immediate Release

Contact: Dr. Joan M. Williams

jwilliams@akronohio.gov or 330-375-2258

Akron City Council Opens Applications for

Vacant Seat on Citizens’ Police Oversight Board

Applications will be due by March 20, 2026

Akron, Ohio, March 4, 2026 —Akron City Council has opened applications to fill the seat on the Citizens’ Police Oversight Board vacated by Caitlin Castle.

“We wish Ms. Castle well and thank her for her service on the Citizen’s Police Oversight Board said City Council President Margo Sommerville.  “We move forward in acknowledgement that It is critically important that the Citizens’ Police Oversight Board be fully seated so that it can effectively carry out its responsibilities on behalf of the residents of Akron. A fully constituted Board strengthens our commitment to thoughtful oversight and reinforces our shared goal of fostering strong, respectful relationships between our safety forces and the community they serve.”

The application process is open to all, and requirements of the Charter will be followed; however, in light of the current composition of the board, preference will be given to candidates who are residents of City of Akron who do not live in Ward 1.

Applications will be accepted starting today. They are available on the City Council website and completed applications, along with a copy of a current resume if available, can be emailed to citizenoversight@akronohio.gov . Residents can also pick up a copy of the application at City Hall (166 S. High St. Room 301, Akron, OH 44308). All applications must be emailed by 12 noon ET on Friday, March 20, 2026. Prior applicants need not reapply. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

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