Input sought in police chief search
Ideas from city leaders, officers to be considered

By Victoria Cherrie
Charlotte Observer

Published 1/15/2008

As Charlotte's city leaders begin to craft a new community safety plan, they'll be looking nationwide for a new police chief to carry out their vision -- which will include how to handle gang crime and other problems as the city grows.

A Dallas recruitment firm will lead Charlotte's search using a lead consultant who is a retired police chief. Candidates can apply through Feb. 15.

Meanwhile, City Manager Curt Walton is asking the mayor, City Council and Mecklenburg County Commissioners to complete surveys for input on what they are looking for in a chief and their ideas for selecting one. He'll also gather information from neighborhoods, residents, business leaders and police department employees.

An online survey is being developed for officers. Residents will also be able to make comments on the city's Web site, he said. Walton, who makes the final decision, will also get a report from focus groups made up of community and neighborhood leaders. Then he'll create a profile for the position to be used by the recruiting firm, Waters-Oldani Executive Recruitment.

Walton will assemble a team to interview and help select finalists. Members will include deputy city manager, county manager, fire chief and representatives from human resources and community relations.

On Monday night, members suggested Walton's selection team also include law enforcement and possibly the district attorney's office.

Over the next few months, he will update and continue seeking input from the council, he said.

Charlotte police Chief Darrel Stephens announced his retirement in November but has agreed to stay through June to give Walton time to hire his replacement.

Walton has said he wants the new chief to be someone who has the ability to listen to the community and build partnerships. His selection plan includes visits to the cities where each of the finalists work.