Courtney Walcott stepping away from Calgary Police Commission to advocate from outside

A year after he was first appointed, Ward 8 Coun. Courtney Walcott has announced that he will no longer serve on the Calgary Police Commission. 

The first-term councillor told CBC News he feels that he can create more change for certain issues from outside the commission.

"I will be able to be much more of a louder advocate for the types of change that we need to see at all levels," Walcott said. 

"In particular, things that stick out to me that I know require a really strong voice from council."

Being a member of the police's civilian oversight board was a great governing experience, Walcott said, but he found being a steward of one part of the system kept him from advocating for larger changes that are necessary to address social disorder.

"What I'll be able to do from this point forward is to become a little bit more of a vocal spokesperson for the entire system of care versus my traditional governing responsibilities," he said.

"I realize that there's a pretty strong confidence that the governance of this table, this group will be fine without me."

Walcott was one of two councillors on the commission. The other, Ward 9 Coun. Gian-Carlo Carra, stepped back from his role temporarily in April.

"Councillor Walcott, you've provided important perspectives on community safety and through your recommendations have highlighted ways in which we can build stronger partnerships and relationships within our community for the benefit of all Calgarians," chair Shawn Cornett said during October's police commission meeting.

She thanked him for being a "valued voice and partner" over the year. She added she hopes Walcott continues to share his insights and perspectives in his role as a city councillor. 

Walcott will officially leave the commission on Oct. 31.