It has been three weeks since Police Chief Howard Skerry retired, and the city is still looking for the perfect candidate to replace him. Acting Police Chief Kevin Vogel wants the job, and has said that he plans to apply. He may be the perfect candidate.
At a forum last night sponsored by the city, residents described what they want in a new police chief, especially now, with the city plagues by a wave of violence. All of the standard boxes were checked. He must be a people person, a competent executive (especially given potential budget woes), committed to transparency, and willing to delegate tasks and authority.
Most of all, however, residents are looking for someone who knows the city and is familiar with its diverse communities. Beach Flats Community Center Director Reyna Ruiz, for example, was very critical of the SCPD’s announcement of a partnership with federal customs and immigration officials to target gang violence, since the announcement took place on Cinco de Mayo. This would not have happened, she argued, had the previous police chief been more sensitive to the Mexican community.
Applicants for the post of police chief have until November 11 to submit their applications. Meanwhile, the city is continuing to hear from local residents and business owners about what they want from a new chief. To have your say, visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/VDFFBJJ
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