The Lincoln Police Department (LPD) has been in the news lately due to the potentially controversial contract that the department recently signed with the city of Lincoln. Many citizens are concerned about the implications of this contract, and it is important to understand what it entails.

The contract, which was signed in February 2021, will provide the LPD with $1.1 million in funding from the city over the next two years. In return, the department has agreed to certain conditions and expectations from the city.

One major aspect of the contract is the requirement for the LPD to provide regular reports to the city about the department`s use of force incidents. This is meant to increase transparency and accountability, and to ensure that the department is using force appropriately.

Another important aspect of the contract is the establishment of a police advisory board. This board will be made up of citizens and community leaders from diverse backgrounds, and will provide input and recommendations to the LPD on issues such as training, policies, and community relations.

Some residents and advocacy groups have expressed concern about the contract, however. They worry that the advisory board will not have enough power to effect meaningful change, and that the LPD may still engage in problematic behavior even with increased reporting requirements.

Others have criticized the contract for not going far enough in addressing systemic issues within the LPD, such as police brutality and misconduct. They argue that more drastic changes are needed in order to truly reform the department and rebuild trust with the community.

Regardless of these concerns, the contract represents an important step forward in addressing issues of police accountability and community relations. By establishing regular oversight and community involvement, the LPD can work towards building a stronger and more equitable department for all residents of Lincoln.