Commissioners gave preliminary approval to a new advisory group that will help the Lawrence Police Department comply with a state law aimed at preventing racial profiling.

Commissioners said they would create a seven-member commission that advises the department on racial profiling policies and would help the department respond to complaints regarding racial profiling.

But Highberger said he would like to have a discussion at a later date to expand the racial profiling advisory board into a board that could advise the police department on a wider variety of issues, and also serve as another outlet for residents to voice their concerns. Other commissioners said they would have the discussion, but did not commit to broadening the board.