AKRON, Ohio — Nearly 62% of Akron voters said yes to Issue 10, creating a nine member citizens police oversight board and strengthening the role of the city’s police auditor's office. 

What You Need To Know

  • Of the voters, 29,526 people voted yes on Issue 10 and 18,370 voted no

  • Issue 10 will create a nine member citizens oversight board for police 

  • Activists collected signatures over the summer to get this issue on the ballot 

29,526 people voted yes on Issue 10 and 18,370 voted no.

Activists from The Freedom BLOC played a major role in getting this initiative on the ballot by collecting thousands of signatures and registering even more to vote. 

Rev. Ray Greene Jr., the executive director of The Freedom BLOC, said this charter amendment will save lives. 

“This is about all of these babies running around, creating a better future for them,” Greene said. “Thats what this is about. I am excited, and I can’t wait to continue to build with my community.” 

The issue's passage does not come without controversy. In September, the Akron City Council passed Mayor Dan Horrigan’s ordinance for a different civilian review board. Since Issue 10 is a charter amendment, it will supersede the ordinance.​