Author
Mayor Tim Keller launched a search for Albuquerque’s next police chief Wednesday with an online survey and scheduled community forums, seeking public input before evaluating candidates to lead the more than 950-officer department.
The city hired Public Sector Search & Consulting Inc. to conduct the nationwide search. The firm has managed police chief searches in 12 major cities, including Chicago, Seattle and Minneapolis.
“Before we start looking at individual candidates, we want to get input on the qualities, experience and priorities of Albuquerque residents for their next chief of police,” Keller said in a statement. “Everyone should have an opportunity to have their voice heard.”
The search follows the Dec. 31 retirement of Harold Medina after five years as chief. Deputy Chief Cecily Barker, appointed interim chief on New Year’s Eve, became the department’s first woman to hold the position.
The city will host three virtual forums next week to gather feedback from different stakeholder groups:
- Advocates: Wednesday, Jan. 28 from 6-7 p.m.
- Community Leaders: Thursday, Jan. 29 from 6-7 p.m.
- Criminal Justice System Stakeholders: Friday, Jan. 30 from 11 a.m. to noon
Details on how to join the Zoom sessions will be released later. An online survey is available now for community members to provide input.
The city said feedback will inform recruitment and evaluation as officials seek a chief committed to constitutional policing, accountability, transparency and community trust.
The police chief position manages a $186 million budget, oversees 911 response and shapes the department’s relationship with the community. The position is posted nationally, and interested candidates may apply at apply@publicsectorsearch.com.
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