ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — More than 75 percent of Rochester voters have decided to pass a referendum on a proposed Police Accountability Board.

The referendum has been a controversial, hotly debated issue locally.

According to the website, the main goal of the board is to hold police more accountable. The Police Accountability Board would be independent of the city.

The nine member board would have power to investigate complaints, subpoena evidence and witnesses, disciplinary power, review police practice and recommend changes.

“It’s not needed,” Rochester Locust Club President Mike Mazzeo said.

“The biggest challenge and the biggest thing that we need in this city is transparency. And this legislation does not address that at all and will not address that and that’s part of the issue.”

Along with the local police union, members of the executive PAB Board spoke out after the legislation was approved.

“I am so proud of the citizens of Rochester that came out. They voted, they put their voices out there for what they wanted as far as for policing and community policing, so right now I am happy. “

Going forward, the Police Accountability Board could still face some legal troubles, but the next step is to appoint members to sit on the board.

For all local election results, visit Your Local Election Headquarters.