Austin’s Office of Police Oversight used a community expo at City Hall on Saturday to explain how residents can raise concerns about policing and learn about three initiatives launched this year: a Know Your Rights program, a complaint mediation program and a dashboard tracking officer-involved shootings. The event, the office’s second community expo, included information booths, demonstrations and discussions with staff. Director Gail McCant said the goal was to give residents a chance to understand the office and speak with its employees. The office operates independently of the Austin Police Department. Its staff members are civilians, McCant said, and the office does not report to the police chief. As it approaches its 25th anniversary, it serves as a channel for residents to share both positive and negative experiences with police. “Sometimes those engagements are unpleasant,” McCant said, adding that the office wants to hear about both kinds of interactions. McCant said complaints and compliments can help the office identify recurring issues and trends, which may lead to recommendations for changes in police policies and practices. The office also works with other city departments, including the Austin Civil Rights Office, on community engagement and accountability efforts. The expo comes amid continuing public debate over police accountability and transparency. McCant said residents frequently tell the office they want accountability, while emphasizing that public trust takes time to build. She said the office publishes recommendations, policy proposals, disciplinary recommendations and information about lawsuits, and encouraged residents to review those records and provide feedback. Sustained public engagement, she said, should not be limited to moments of crisis or ballot measures. “Oversight and the community” have no finish line, McCant said. The office’s goal, she added, is for residents to know it exists, understand its work and feel able to use it as a resource.