Real Talk San Mateo Virtual Dialogues

In June, the San Mateo Police Department initiated “Real Talk San Mateo,” to discuss equality in community policing. City government and community leader panelists provided timely information to the community during the first two discussions. The third virtual gathering on July 14th was a dedicated listening session where the police department and city leaders heard public comments and questions. San Mateo Police Chief Ed Barberini, City Manager Drew Corbett and Officer Lupe Mejia were on the panel wanting to learn from the community about unseen issues that need to be addressed.

PCRC was invited to moderate the public comment session to ensure equity in the process. Executive Director Michelle Vilchez set out the expectations of the meeting for community participants to follow. They would have two minutes to share their experiences, comments and questions respectfully. José López, Manager of Facilitation Services, helped Michelle track participant’s time and issued polls throughout the event. The first poll he took gauged who was in the audience finding that out of the 100 audience members, 53% lived in San Mateo and 28% lived and worked in San Mateo.

Many voices were heard throughout the dialogue session with varying perspectives. The questions and comments shared were used to help inform the San Mateo Police Department budget discussions and will help shape policy and future city services. The answers to the questions asked during the session have been provided online. With a focus on inclusion and accessibility, the August 18th episode of Real Talk San Mateo at 6 pm will feature youth perspectives and seniors will have a dedicated opportunity to be heard in September.

Watch the recorded Real Talk San Mateo sessions online on the police department’s accountability webpage.