Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

Monroe City councilwoman Kema Dawson held a community meeting for District 5 residents, Thursday, July 22, 2021, held to share information and answer questions from concerned citizens from south Monroe. Councilwoman Dawson shared remarks first, followed by Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis, Police Chief Vic Zordan, and other city department leaders who shared information about their respective divisions. The many in attendance reflected the community's desire to hear from Mayor Ellis and Chief Zordan. The hottest topics of conversation were concerns over crime, policing, and recent alleged police brutality cases all of which were glossed over by the city's top leaders. Mayor Ellis admitted, this was a moment for him to be vulnerable and listen. He knows they have to start somewhere. Chief Zordan revealed contradictory sentiments as he became hostile when asked multiple questions around Monroe Police Department policing practices and policies. Perhaps Zordan's prior experience as an agent with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) did not require much transparency or was as public facing as his new appointed role. Holding the title of Police Chief requires more empathy and communication. It is apparent we can not move forward without it. There are valid problems that require clear answers. District meetings were a start but much more is needed.If school children as young as the age of 6 are required to show their work, there has to be accountability for someone who took on the role to protect and serve a community.