A police commission or police board is a civilian oversight body governing a municipal police service, separate from elected council. Board members are typically appointed through combinations of municipal, provincial, and sometimes citizen selection processes. Police boards hire chiefs, set policing priorities, establish budgets (for council approval), develop policies, and handle complaints against the service. The board structure maintains some police independence from direct political control while ensuring civilian oversight and accountability. Board composition, powers, and relationships with councils vary by province. Effective police governance balances operational independence with democratic accountability for this essential but powerful public service.