By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-912452.mp3
Buffalo, NY – Four Buffalo Common Council members are demanding answers about a so-called national search for city police Commissioner.
Lawmakers stood on the steps of City Hall Monday afternoon calling on the Brown Administration to disclose how many applied for job and how many were interviewed.
South District council member Michael Kearns is calling for the job search process to start over.
"If we have the obligation to confirm this commissioner, then in order for us to make this decision we are going to need to see that information," said Kearns.
Mayor Brown has nominated acting police commissioner Daniel Derneda to be the City's next top cop. The City claims it conducted a national search. But lawmakers are skeptical and want proof of a national search.
"Buffalo deserves a well designed vetting process", said Ellicott District lawmaker Curtis Haynes
Niagara District lawmaker David Rivera says in order for the city to find a top-notch Police Commissioner it must conduct a top-notch national search.
"I can tell you I will be voting off on this appointment", said Rivera.
Rivera said the city needs a candidate that has the credentials and someone moved up the ranks in the police department.
Derenda is a 24 year police veteran. But he lacks a college degree and an news article over the weekend links Derenda to Brown campaign contributions.
Mayor' Brown's spokesman Peter Cutler said they received over 40-resumes, but refuses to disclose how many were interviewed. Cutler claims that information is confidential.
"The selection of a new police commissioner for the city of Buffalo is too important to do it without the involvement of the community and without transparency", said Delaware District council member Michael LoCurto.
Lawmakers will vote on the nomination July 20th. But for now they say they aer heading into Tuesday's confirmation hearing without any indication that there was a search committee. They accuse the Administration of conducting a National search behind closed doors.