Seattle launches search for its next police chief
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The search is on for a new Seattle police chief, with the process expected to take about four months.
Why it matters: The Seattle Police Department has lacked a permanent leader since former chief Shon Barnes resigned last month at the mayor's request, just days after the Bite of Seattle shooting.
The latest: A nationwide search for Barnes' replacement launched this week, with Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson calling it "a pivotal moment" for public safety in the city.
- Seattleites are invited to take a survey through Sept. 15 to help guide the process.
What they're saying: Wilson said in a news release this week that she is looking for a chief who will be "visible, accountable, and present in our neighborhoods."
Catch up quick: Before his resignation, Barnes faced criticism and questions over his travel schedule, which involved frequent trips to his family home in Chicago.
- Barnes said he was out of town at a conference when the July 26 Bite of Seattle shooting occurred.
- Wilson later expressed frustration with communication from the police department that night and said events surrounding the shooting played a role in her decision to ask Barnes to step down.
- Wilson appointed Andre Sayles as interim chief while the search gets underway.
How it works: The police chief job posting is already online, with a salary range of $234,294 to $374,900.
- An advisory committee will recommend up to five applicants to advance to a competitive examination, with the mayor interviewing the top candidates based on those results.
- The committee, made up of community leaders and law enforcement officials, will be co-chaired by former state Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu and Ian Warner, public policy director at Vulcan Real Estate.
- It will gather community feedback through the online survey and community forums, the first of which is scheduled for Sept. 26.
What's next: Wilson expects to announce her pick for a permanent police chief by the start of 2027, according to her office.
- Whoever she chooses will ultimately need to be confirmed by a majority of the City Council.