Recognizing and lauding the accomplishments of Héctor W. Soto while serving as Executive Director of the Philadelphia Police Advisory Commission.

WHEREAS, In 1996 Mr. Soto founded the Citizen's Commission on Policing (COP), in New York City, which is a not-for-profit organization advocating oversight of the police by civilians and making recommendations pertaining to police-minority community relations; and

WHEREAS, Héctor W. Soto served as the first Executive Director of the New York Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) which is an independent civilian oversight board; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Soto has continued in his advocacy for responsible policing and has been the Executive Director of the Philadelphia Police Advisory Board since 1998; and

WHEREAS, Héctor W. Soto brought to the Philadelphia Police Advisory Commission a wealth of knowledge and experience; this enabled him to be innovative in his vision and mission of building good will between the police and the civilians, while, at the same time, listening and recommending the best measures to promote these sentiments; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Soto's commitment to his mission in serving all the citizens of Philadelphia leaves the City with hope for continued mutual support between the civilians and the police force; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That the Council recognizes, lauds and applauds the excellent accomplishments made by the Philadelphia Police Advisory Commission through the exceptional leadership of Héctor W. Soto and the Council also thanks him for his service to our citizenry.

FURTHER RESOLVED, An Engrossed copy of this Resolution shall be presented to Héctor W. Soto as the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

End