There is a lot of frustration in Saratoga Springs when it comes to the police department and its relationship with the community, Black members in particular.

The frustration was displayed Wednesday during a virtual forum hosted by Public Safety Commissioner Robin Dalton and Police Chief Shane Crooks. Participants in the conversations, many of whom were Black, shared stories of being harassed or targeted by city police officers.

"I know that being pulled over for no reason other than the color of my skin is not an uncommon experience,” one person said. “I've been told to leave downtown. I've been targeted, intimidated and harassed.”

It was more of a listening session for public safety officials. The lack of answers was a point of contention for many who say that it’s part of the problem.

One person said they believe that a lot of the stories shared during the forum deter more Black people from moving to the city.

“It's not the type of prejudice that can be undone by bias training,” she said. “It's an intentional and terrifying reality that Black people live with daily in Saratoga.”

City public safety officials say improvements are coming, but did not provide a timeline.